Compared to the first-generation Hyundai Kona, a lot has changed in the newly introduced car. The compact SUV, which had its world premiere on Tuesday, is around 4.36 meters long and 1.83 meters wide, 17.5 centimeters longer and 25 centimeters wider than its predecessor from 2017. The wheelbase too (2.66 meters) has increased by 6 centimeters. According to Jaehoon Chang, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, the new Kona builds on the first generation, but according to the manufacturer it is more robust and dynamic.
The front and rear appear more aggressive than on the predecessor. A light strip at the front and rear is also striking. Among other things, because of the smooth front end, the drag coefficient should be 0.27. The SUV also has LED headlights, angular wheel arch panels and wing-shaped bumpers. The sports version has dual exhaust systems (on the combustion models) and a roof spoiler. Visually, the Kona relies on “lively” exterior colors.
In the interior, the dashboard stands out a bit from the lower part, two integrated 12.3-inch panorama displays, one for the instrument display and one as an infotainment system with touch function, provide vehicle information and include the audio, video and navigation system . However, various controls are still analog. The Kona is optionally available with “relax comfort seats” for the driver and front passenger.
In addition to greater comfort through more space, Hyundai tried to increase the range of uses for the occupants. The SUV is therefore based on “new technologies and comfort functions” with a networked environment. This includes the function for locking and unlocking the doors and starting the engine using a smartphone or smartwatch, a head-up display in which important vehicle data is projected onto the windshield, and interior and exterior sockets. Updates should be able to be carried out over-the-air.
The Kona also has various driver assistance systems, such as a system that displays the surroundings from different angles when parking and a warning and evasive system to avoid danger in the blind spot. A camera observes the driver’s face and is intended to warn of tiredness or inattention or even intervene in the driving process. In addition, level 2 autonomous driving is supported.
The Koreans promise “best in class” range, according to a press release released on Tuesday. In addition to a battery with 48.4 kWh, there is also a 65.4 kWh battery to choose from, which should be able to take the car an estimated 490 kilometers with one charge. The battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent on the fast charger in around 40 minutes. Apart from the fully electric drive, the Kona is also available as a plug-in hybrid and as a combustion engine. However, the version with an electric motor should be the first – according to the new electrification strategy that the carmaker presented in March 2022. According to this, eleven new electric cars from Hyundai should come onto the market by 2030.
The Kona is not yet homologated for the German market, but it should roll out to dealers in the summer. In terms of price, the electric version should start at just under 40,000 euros. The engine data of the SUV are also unclear so far.
