- Olga Kokorina
- Translated by Olga Apetenok
- Ru He Ar
Hyundai Kona. 2nd generation 2023
The Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV produced since 2017. The model is sold in many markets, has an electric EV version and a sports N. In Israel, Kona is known and loved. Our market currently offers the 2020 restyled version. In January 2023, the second generation SUV debuted in Korea. The larger and more spacious newcomer has become closer to the family car segment, offers a hybrid and classic version with an internal combustion engine, as well as a sporty N Line version with a more aggressive design. Terms of deliveries to Israel are not yet known.
In March 2023, the manufacturer released the new [Hyundai Kona EV] (https://autoboom.co.il/en/magazine/hyundai-kona-ev-2nd-generation-2023). In Europe, the start of sales of the second generation of the "regular" Kona with internal combustion engines is expected in April, and the electric Kona will go to dealers only in August 2023.
Exterior
The new 2023 Hyundai Kona has grown in size: the length has increased by as much as 175 mm and amounts to 4,355 mm, while the wheelbase has grown to 2,660 mm, becoming 60 mm longer. The width has increased by 25 mm (1,825 mm), the height by 20 mm (1,575 mm). Gasoline versions (including hybrid cars) have plastic lining on the wheel arches and sills. They are also distinguished from the new electric Kona EV by a different ‘facial expression’ (thanks to a different bumper). The newcomer is based on 17, 18 or 19-inch wheels.
Interior
The vehicle has become roomier: there is 8 cm more space between the front and rear seats. The front panel houses 12.3-inch dashboard and multimedia media system screens united in one stylish unit. The gearbox selector is located on the steering column, and convenient cup holders are now located in its former place. Another practical solution: climate control is not hidden in the multimedia system, but consists of three rotary knobs or (depending on configuration) buttons with a separate small screen. The trunk volume with the second row folded down has grown by 30% compared to the previous generation and reaches 723 liters.
The equipment of the second generation SUV includes a ‘digital’ key, a contactless trunk opening system, air purification, auto-braking and lane keeping systems, and adaptive cruise control. The fifth door is equipped with an electric drive, so the opening height can be adjusted in the media system menu. For a surcharge, you can get heated seats, ventilated front seats, as well as all-round cameras.
Powertrains
The 2023 Hyundai Kona is offered with a gasoline engine and a HEV hybrid system (without the possibility of charging from the mains). The front-wheel drive versions come with a rear dependent suspension, whereas the all-wheel drive vehicles feature an independent multi-link suspension. Both the gasoline and hybrid Konas will eventually get a sporty N Line version. The model range for Korea, which was released first, includes three modifications:
- The front-wheel drive version with a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 149 hp and CVT
- The front or all-wheel drive version with a 1.6 T-GDi turbo engine (198 hp, 265 Nm) and an 8-speed automatic gearbox
- The front-wheel hybrid version with a Smartstream 1.6 GDi series naturally aspirated engine (105 hp) and an electric motor (44 hp) paired with a 6-speed robotic gearbox. The maximum power reaches 141 hp and 265 Nm.
