Friday, November 8, 2024

Hyundai Motor Company released the new Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV, and it has already received a lot of attention from car enthusiasts. The new Kona is available in multiple powertrain variants, including all-electric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), and internal combustion engine (ICE) with sporty N Line versions of each.

The New Hyundai Kona 2023: The Compact SUV That Offers Something for EveryoneThis article will take a closer look at the new Hyundai Kona’s design, interior space, technology, and safety features.

Sporty Design Elements that Enhance Performance

The all-new Kona is designed to appeal to a wide range of customers, with a variety of powertrain options and design elements that add a sporty style and enhance performance. The front and rear Seamless Horizon Lamps give the new model a harmonious and unique appearance for each variant.

The EV variant is further differentiated by its Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamps, which is the first Hyundai model to apply this iconic design flourish.

The SUV’s sporty character is embodied by rugged wheel arch cladding with integrated front and rear lamps, side panels with dynamic wedge proportions, and characteristic chrome molding that runs from the belt line to the spoiler. Its specially designed spoke 19-inch wheel design is a first for KONA.

The ICE and HEV variants carry over many of the EV’s design characteristics with a distinctive twist. The front bumper is distinguished by a three-dimensional garnish and skid plate instead of a radiator grill. The ICE and HEV variants also add contrasting black wheel arch cladding for emphasis.

The New Hyundai Kona 2023: The Compact SUV That Offers Something for EveryoneThe performance-inspired Kona N Line variant adds more aggressive front and rear designs with a wing-shaped bumper, twin muffler, and silver side skirt to emphasize its sporty image. Additional options include a black roof and 19-inch N Line exclusive alloy wheel design. Inside, the N Line variant is equipped with exclusive metal pedals and an N-brand gear shift (TGS) lever.

Roomier and Smarter Interior Space

The all-new Kona provides roomier, more versatile interior space for increased passenger comfort and easy cargo storage. The all-new Kona also provides the best-in-class space with a 60 mm longer wheelbase length, 77 mm longer legroom, and 11 mm higher headroom in the second-row seats compared to the previous generation.

The second-row shoulder room is 1,402 mm, also the largest in its class, providing the best habitability in ‘living space’ for passengers. KONA’s slim and rigid seats, which are only 85 mm thick, also add more living space for the second-row passengers.

The New Hyundai Kona 2023: The Compact SUV That Offers Something for EveryoneIn addition, the column-type electric shift-by-wire gear selector set behind the steering wheel allows more space for an open, clean console structure that can be used for cupholders or storage for big bags. The fully foldable second-row seat and rear compartment provide up to 723 liters (based on SAE) of cargo space to meet the highest level of customer need with improved loading convenience.

The 12.3-inch integrated dual-screen display supports ergonomically comfortable use, while the first row’s relaxation comfort seat option is optimized for ‘weightless’ body pressure distribution to help alleviate fatigue after long-haul driving.

Best-in-Class Technologies for More Convenience

The new generation Kona’s maintenance and system updates are easier than ever with electronic control technology through Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates. This allows car owners to save on cost and have their cars maintained with the latest software, providing an upgradable experience. Ambient light is also supported by OTA updates for maintenance and new features.

Customers will appreciate the flexible smart power tailgate opening. On the infotainment system screen or by holding down the close button for three seconds at the desired height of the tailgate, drivers can choose the opening height and speed of the tailgate.

Additionally, KONA’s many charging outlets, including the wireless charging system, and integrated memory system for seat position settings offer more practical experiences.

The New Hyundai Kona 2023: The Compact SUV That Offers Something for EveryoneWith the use of near-field communication (NFC) on smartphones or smartwatches, the all-new KONA may be started, locked, and unlocked using the Digital Key 2 Touch as part of the electronic control technology. This ensures a high level of security.

Safety and Technology Features of the new Hyundai Kona

The 2023 Hyundai Kona boasts an impressive suite of advanced safety and technology features. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, driver attention monitoring, and a rearview camera. Higher trims also come with features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.

The Kona also has a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims come with an upgraded infotainment system with a larger 10.25-inch touch screen, wireless charging, an eight-speaker Infinity audio system, and a head-up display.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offers two engine choices. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a six-speed automatic transmission and can be paired with either front- or all-wheel drive.

The second engine option is a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and can also be paired with front- or all-wheel drive.

The Kona’s fuel economy is competitive for its class, with the base engine achieving an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models and 27 mpg combined for all-wheel-drive models. The turbocharged engine achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg combined for front-wheel-drive models and 28 mpg combined for all-wheel-drive models.

Conclusion

The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a well-rounded subcompact SUV that offers plenty of value for its price. With its stylish design, advanced safety features, and user-friendly technology, it’s a great choice for those looking for a practical and affordable vehicle that doesn’t skimp on style or functionality.

While it may not have the most spacious interior, it makes up for it with its impressive performance and fuel economy, making it a great choice for commuters or anyone looking for a practical daily driver. With a starting price of around $21,000, the Hyundai Kona is also one of the most affordable options in its class.

Overall, the 2023 Hyundai Kona is a solid choice for those in the market for a subcompact SUV, and it’s definitely worth considering when shopping for a new car.




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