The Kona is currently one of the most successful models for Hyundai. Now the little crossover has been revised.
Hyundai has revised the Kona after three years of construction: the mini-SUV will be available from the end of the year with a new look, better connectivity and assistance systems and a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The manufacturer has not yet commented on the prices; the Tucson's little brother is currently available from 19.000 euros.
Interior and design
The Kona is clearly recognizable by the redesigned front with a shark's mouth grille. Among other things, the small SUV now has an electric parking brake and ambient light, heated rear seats and a USB port for the back seat. For the first time, the N-Line equipment line with a sporty look is available, here the Kona has, among other things, larger air inlets at the front, a rear apron with diffuser and seats with red stitching.
The facelift comes from the factory with DAB + radio, the display of which has been enlarged to eight inches. Optionally, two 10,25-inch screens serve as an instrument panel and navigation touchscreen. Depending on the equipment, smartphones can now also be mirrored wirelessly on the display in the center console, and a range of telematics services such as real-time traffic or parking information is implemented via Bluelink.
Technical data
Hyundai is expanding its range of drives to include 48-volt mild hybrids: the 1,0-liter entry-level petrol engine (88 kW / 120 PS) with fuel-saving technology is available as an option; the 1,6-liter diesel (100 kW / 136 PS) as a 48-volt hybrid. In conjunction with the 48-volt hybrid system, the customer can choose between a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and a newly developed manual six-speed manual transmission with an electronic clutch and coasting function. At the top of the series is the 1,6-liter petrol engine with 146 kW / 198 PS and a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
Furthermore, the Kona is also available as a full hybrid with 104 kW / 141 PS, from the beginning of 2021 in the facelift version. Hyundai intends to provide information about the revised electric versions at a later date. With the facelift, Hyundai has also revised the chassis; In addition to modified springs and dampers, the Kona has modified anti-roll bars to increase driving comfort and reduce driving noise.
The emergency brake assistant is on board as standard and can now also optionally detect cyclists in addition to vehicles and pedestrians. The proximity cruise control can start up again automatically in stop-and-go traffic, while the blind spot assistant, available in combination with the dual clutch transmission, makes it difficult to change lanes with targeted braking intervention if the driver overlooks a vehicle approaching from behind. The active cross traffic warning brakes the SUV if there is an impending collision when reversing out of a parking space. Another new feature is the exit assistant, which warns of vehicles approaching from behind when the rear doors are opened and locks the door in good time.