Hyundai is one of the automakers that impresses me the most. The brand started from very humble beginnings when it entered the North American market, but it has managed to build a solid reputation thanks to quality products at reasonable prices. The Kona is the perfect example of this, as the small SUV from the Korean manufacturer has been a leader in its segment for several years. It offers a particularly appealing formula in a format that suits the majority of buyers. In short, the Hyundai Kona has everything it takes to please, and it's undoubtedly a model to follow.
As you probably know, the Korean SUV was revamped last year with the arrival of a new generation. Once again, the manufacturer seems to have started from scratch, opting for a design with sharper lines and very angular shapes. The interior resembles what can be found in other models from the brand, and the mechanical aspects haven't changed much. In short, Hyundai has combined its best elements to offer a highly competitive vehicle once again.
Range and Pricing
Today, let's focus on the gasoline-powered Hyundai Kona. This variant offers three trim levels, starting with the Essential version, which, contrary to what its name suggests, offers more than just the essentials. In my opinion, the standard equipment in the Kona is very comprehensive, especially with a starting price of $28,921. For this amount, you get a 12.3-inch touchscreen for the multimedia system, heated front seats, and LED headlights and taillights. These are features that are often only available as options on many other models. If you want more equipment, you can opt for the Preferred version at $31,421. Here, you get additional comfort and luxury features. Not to mention the enhanced style, thanks to beautiful 18-inch wheels. Finally, there's the N Line AWD version, which offers a more spirited engine and some additional options, including a fully digital instrument panel. The starting price for this version is $38,421, a slight increase, but the price remains very reasonable considering the vehicle offered.
Category and Competition
The competition is getting fiercer, especially in the subcompact SUV segment, which continues to gain popularity every year. To perform well in this category, you need to offer more than the others, and that's exactly what Hyundai does with the Kona. It offers a 100% electric variant as well as a sporty version, which allows it to stand out from most of its rivals.
Rivals: Buick Encore GX, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Honda HR-V, Kia Niro, Kia Seltos, Kia Soul, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi RVR, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Corolla Cross, Volkswagen Taos
Design and Technology
The first generation of the Kona was a great success thanks to its price and its catchy design. Personally, I find the style of the second generation even more interesting, which is why the 2025 Kona is likely to become increasingly popular, in my opinion. The sharp lines and angular shapes suit it very well.
The interior of the 2025 Kona is elegant and dynamic. The ergonomics have been well thought out, and I particularly like the steering wheel design. The finish quality is quite good for a vehicle in this price range, and I really like the color accents added in some versions. It feels like being in a much more luxurious and prestigious vehicle than it actually is, and that's a good thing.
Hyundai has also done well in the technology department. The Kona's multimedia system is smooth and intuitive. As for the driver assistance technologies, they are effective without being overly intrusive.
Performance
The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers two mechanical options if we exclude the electric version. First, you can opt for a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that develops 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available as an option. With this engine, the 2025 Hyundai Kona has an average fuel consumption of 8.2 L/100 km in the city and 6.8 L/100 km on the highway with front-wheel drive, which is excellent.
If you want a more spirited drive, there's the N Line version. This one is equipped with a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. As for the transmission, it's an 8-speed automatic. Additionally, all-wheel drive is standard here.
Weak Points
There is no high-performance N version. Some plastics in the cabin are of poor quality. There is no hybrid version available here, although it is offered elsewhere.
Strong Points
It's a vehicle with a catchy design. It offers a spacious and functional interior. Its technology level is impressive, especially in its price range.
Signature Element
The Hyundai Kona offers one of the most interesting formulas in its category, which explains its continued popularity year after year.
Final Word
As always, Hyundai has done an excellent job with the 2025 Kona. The model has very little to criticize, and its price makes it one of the most attractive vehicles on the market right now.
Jean-Sébastien Poudrier
