The Hyundai Kona’s funky styling isn’t for everyone, but there’s no denying its usefulness and value. That said, buyers skeptical of the crossover’s unique look won’t have much to complain about with the new Kona. Hyundai recently showed a completely renewed model with futuristic looks and styling that should win over the critics.
The 2024 Kona seen here is the global model, but its look and many specs will likely carry over to the U.S. variant. Three powertrains will be offered, including a traditional gas engine, a hybrid, and an EV. Hyundai said it would release N Line variants with each powertrain, so we’ll see a sporty Kona EV for the first time.
Exterior styling is still unique, as the headlights are lower in the front fascia instead of high on the bumper. Certain configurations get black plastic body cladding around the wheels, and a new 19-inch wheel design is available. Hybrid and electric models also get a unique bumper with a skid plate and 3D elements instead of a traditional grille. N-Line models get aggressive styling, 19-inch wheels, and twin exhausts for gas models.
The Kona Hybrid gets active upper and lower grille flaps to improve aerodynamics, and the electric model gets pixelated lighting fixtures like the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
The new Kona’s interior space benefits from an extended wheelbase, which brings better legroom for back-seat passengers. Rear headroom is improved, and Hyundai says the new crossover offers class-leading shoulder room in the second row. The Kona’s seats are just over three inches thick, which enhances interior space, and the rear seats fold flat to create almost 26 cubic feet of cargo space.
A 12.3-inch display comes standard, bringing over-the-air updates (OTAs). Hyundai said the system allows owners to save money by adding new features and refining existing functionality without needing to buy a new vehicle. The interior ambient lighting system also works with OTAs to gain new animations and features.
Hyundai released specs for the Korean Kona’s powertrain options. They could change before we see them, but there will be two gas engines: A turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder rated at 195 horsepower and a 2.0-liter with 147 horsepower. The Kona Hybrid comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor that produce a combined 139 horsepower.
We’ll learn more about the new 2024 Kona in March, including the electric model. There’s no word on the North American variant yet, but more details will become available after the vehicle launches in its Korean home market.
