Hyundai unveils new-gen Kona

Hyundai has officially revealed the latest version of its subcompact sport utility vehicle Kona.

The Korean automotive marque said that the new-generation Kona has four options: all-electric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered, and N Line — all sporting a universal architecture.

Hyundai Design Center Executive Vice President and Head SangYup Lee said that the all-new Kona confidently expresses the nameplate’s “bold and dynamic presence.” “Kona has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter," the company executive said.

The all-new vehicle grew 150 mm longer than the previous generation, based on the EV variant. It is also 25mm wider and its wheelbase length gained 60mm more versus the outgoing version.

The company said that unlike most vehicles that are made available with a variety of powertrains, the all-new Hyundai Kona started with the EV variant design, which was then adapted for the ICE, hybrid electric and N Line models.

“This unconventional approach allowed Hyundai to bring tech-centric design thinking to all Kona variants. Despite the shared architecture, EV, ICE/HEV and sporty N Line models have distinctive futuristic styling,” Hyundai noted in a statement.

On the outside, the all-new Hyundai Kona’s clean, distinctive nose characterizes the front section as highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp (which is pixelated on the EV variant), marking the marque’s first model to sport a pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp.

According to Hyundai, the all-new Kona has various styling variations depending on the fitted powertrain.

The EV sports pixel graphic details on the intake grille and rear bumper, a pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheel design, black embracing line and optional black side mirrors and roof. The ICE and HEV have a bold and rugged bumper and skid plate design, and black wheel arch cladding. The N Line comes with optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper, 19-inch alloy wheels, twin muffler and silver side skirt.

For its interior, the all-new Hyundai Kona features a larger interior “living space” derived from the EV version’s architecture with an athletic layout with floating horizontal C-Pad.

Further, the crossover also has 12.3-inch dual wide displays, a floating module, and ambient lighting. Its column type shift-by-wire was relocated from the center console to behind the steering wheel.

The cabin also has a second-row curve-less bench seat and a maximized cargo space.

Moreover, Hyundai noted that more details about the all-new Kona will be shared in the coming months.

Photos from Hyundai

Also read:

The pros and cons of the Hyundai Kona

Checking out the colors of the Hyundai Kona

Hyundai expands high-performance line-up with Kona N