Small SUVs are getting larger. The 2024 Hyundai Kona—as soon as firmly a subcompact—is now longer, wider, and taller than the tiny SUV it replaces. However that is not essentially a foul factor. Larger exterior dimensions provide extra passenger and cargo house, and the brand new Kona is ripe with room.
At 171.3 inches lengthy and with a wheelbase of 104.7 inches, the Kona has grown by 5.7 and a pair of.3 inches, respectively. That added dimension provides the Kona a extra sturdy 25.2 cubic ft of house behind the rear seat. That is 6.3 extra cubes than final 12 months and higher than rivals just like the Honda HR-V and Subaru Crosstrek. Rear seat legroom improves by about three inches, too, making the again seat a genuinely good place to be.
The cabin is clear and easy. Tender plastics, premium fake leather-based, and aluminum accents dot the sprint, door panels, and middle console. Each floor looks like an improve over the earlier Kona. And also you even get heated and ventilated entrance seats on this Restricted mannequin—a rarity for this phase.
| Fast Specs | 2024 Hyundai Kona Restricted AWD |
| Engine | Turbocharged 1.6-Liter 4-Cylinder |
| Output | 190 Horsepower / 195 Pound-Toes |
| Gasoline Economic system | 29 Metropolis / 24 Freeway / 26 Mixed |
| Base Worth | $25,625 |
| As-Examined Worth | $34,695 |
A sizeable 12.3-inch touchscreen graces the dashboard, joined by an identical 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Our take a look at automobile nonetheless did not have wi-fi Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, however it’s coming to 2024 Kona fashions through an over-the-air replace.
The already-funky-looking SUV seems to be extra futuristic now, with an ultra-slim mild bar spanning the width of the hood, and chunky black plastic cladding across the entrance bumper and wheel wells for a extra rugged look. It is even higher with the Neoteric Yellow paint job—a no-cost possibility.
Execs: Extra Area, Futuristic Design, Good To Drive
On the street, the Kona is a superb cruiser. The upgraded 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo engine on this Restricted mannequin makes 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. Energy supply is fast and there is sufficient of it accessible at excessive rpm to make straightforward work of freeway passes. The eight-speed computerized is an improve over the bottom mannequin’s CVT and it is a fast shifter.
All-wheel drive is obtainable throughout the board, but it surely’s a $1,500 possibility on all trims. Sure, even the top-tier Restricted comes with customary front-wheel drive. However with that you just do get a singular suspension setup; FWD fashions have a torsion beam whereas AWD fashions have an unbiased multi-link setup within the rear.
So not solely does including AWD give drivers extra confidence in inclement climate, but it surely additionally makes the Kona a extra well-rounded performer. Chuck it right into a nook and the Kona feels tidy and balanced. There is not as a lot physique roll as you’d anticipate and the chassis soaks as much as undulations and damaged pavement properly. Even with too-big 19-inch wheels, the Kona has a snug experience. The steering is overly boosted and imprecise, however that is not sudden for this phase.
The combo of all-wheel drive with the 1.6-liter engine can also be the least environment friendly possibility of the group. It returns 29 miles per gallon metropolis, 24 freeway, and 26 mixed—the bottom mannequin will get as much as 31 mpg mixed. The HR-V, Crosstrek, and Toyota Corolla Cross are all extra environment friendly with all-wheel drive.
Cons: Inefficient With All-Wheel Drive, Expensive With The Turbo
As for the value; In case you learn my current “Low cost Vehicles Are Lifeless” column, you most likely know the place I’m headed right here. When the earlier Kona was new in 2017, it solely price $18,000—and it was fairly good for that value. Now you’re looking at a $25,625 base value with vacation spot included. Greater than a $7,000 improve. The AWD Restricted mannequin examined right here is available in at $34,695 with no choices (apart from a carpeted ground mat accent). Not precisely inexpensive.
However, the brand new Kona brings loads to the desk. It’s larger, which suggests extra passenger and cargo house, and the styling is exclusive. You definitely gained’t lose this automotive in a crowded car parking zone—particularly with that paint job. And it’s good to drive. Assuming you’re prepared to swallow a severe value improve, the Kona ticks numerous the large containers for buyers on this phase.
