An extraordinary transformation. The familiar appearance has completely vanished. A slightly larger and sturdier body with fantastic proportions catches the eye. This is Hyundai’s ‘All-New Kona,’ reborn after five years and seven months.
On January 18, Hyundai unveiled the evolved second-generation ‘All-New Kona’ to the press at Seoul’s Dongdaemun Design Plaza. The Kona, which first debuted in June 2017 at Hyundai’s Goyang Motor Studio, has now evolved into its second-generation model.
The seamless headlight, which has become a new symbol for Hyundai from models like the Staria and Grandeur, is also applied to the Kona, creating a front that emphasizes a single line. The rear also features lights connected by the same single line, drawing attention.
With dimensions of 4,350 × 1,825 × 1,590mm, the new model has generally increased in size compared to its predecessor (4,215 × 1,800 × 1,570mm). The wheelbase has also grown from 2,600mm to 2,660mm, an increase of 60mm. Thanks to the larger body and wheelbase, the interior is spacious. Sitting in the second row, two fists fit in front of the knees, and there’s enough headroom for one fist above. The center tunnel is finger-high, and even in the middle seat of the second row, there’s enough room for a palm’s width above the head.
In the driver’s seat, a 12.3-inch instrument panel and display are seamlessly integrated. Additionally, an electronic column shifter has been applied next to the steering wheel. This enhances driving concentration, and thanks to the electronic column shifter, the space around the driver and front passenger has expanded. As a result, the usability of space, including cup holders and wireless charging pads, has improved significantly.
The Inspiration trim features high-quality natural leather seats and a steering wheel, with the same natural leather finishing on the interior door sides. Although a compact SUV, its leather-wrapped interior evokes a luxurious atmosphere.
The second-generation Kona can be equipped with the dynamic N Line package as an option. The Kona with the N Line package features Alcantara seats both in the front and rear rows. Additionally, a rear spoiler has been installed, and chrome accents on the windows express a stronger desire to drive.
The doors are impressive, transformed into a sturdier structure. Typically, the doors of compact models are quite light, but the Kona’s doors feel substantially heavier and more solid. They give the feeling of a door typically found in medium-sized vehicles or larger. The enhanced side reinforcement for side collision safety has contributed to the luxurious feel of the doors.
The Kona offers a diverse lineup compared to its competitors. The gasoline 1.6 Turbo model achieves a maximum output of 198 horsepower and maximum torque of 27.0 kg·m, paired with the SmartStream 8-speed automatic transmission, while achieving a combined fuel efficiency of 13 km/l.
The gasoline 2.0-liter model, matched with the SmartStream IVT transmission, produces a maximum output of 149 horsepower and maximum torque of 18.3 kg·m, boasting a combined fuel efficiency of 13.6 km/l. The 1.6-liter hybrid model features a combined system output of 141 horsepower, maximum system torque of 27.0 kg·m, and an impressive combined fuel efficiency of 19.8 km/l.
The price starts at 25,370,000 KRW for the 1.6 Turbo Modern model, 27,590,000 KRW for Premium, and 30,970,000 KRW for Inspiration. The gasoline 2.0 model costs 24,680,000 KRW for Modern, 26,900,000 KRW for Premium, and 30,290,000 KRW for Inspiration. The Hybrid model starts at 31,190,000 KRW for Modern, 32,970,000 KRW for Premium, and 36,110,000 KRW for Inspiration.
In an economic downturn, as consumers are more cautious with their spending, this compact SUV seems to be targeting practical buyers.
By Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr