2019 Hyundai Kona Review
No longer is the Hyundai Tucson the smallest crossover offering from the South Korean brand, with the mantle being taken over by the subcompact Kona - which has taken the market by storm since its 2018 launch. Base models are powered by a 147 horsepower 2.0-liter motor mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, while a 1.6-liter turbocharged motor produces 175 hp in more expensive iterations, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All models make use of front-wheel drive by default, but all-wheel drive is optionally available, as with other rivals like the Fiat 500X and Buick Encore. Priced between $19,990 and $28,900, there are four available trims and an Iron Man special edition to help you fulfill your superhero crossover fantasies.
What's the Price of the 2019 Hyundai Kona?
With four trims, an optional Tech package midway through the ranks, and the ability to equip all Kona models with all wheel drive, the Kona range has numerous price points that are bound to meet everyone's budget, while undercutting numerous rivals. The Kona SE kicks off the range at $19,990, and while it might only be $10 below the $20,000 mark, it's a mental barrier of affordability and one that will leave buyers of even the base model pleasantly surprised with the level of specification and quality. That price does, however, not include a $1,045 destination charge. From there, the SEL carries a sticker price of $21,800, the Limited carries a sticker price of $25,550 while the Ultimate starts at $27,500. The range-topping Iron Man Edition starts at a base MSRP of $30,550. Upgrading to an independent rear suspension and all-wheel drive on any trim level will cost buyers an additional $1,400.
2019 Kona Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 164.0 in | 102.4 in | 61.0 in | 70.9 in | 62.0 in | 62.4 in | 2,890.0 lbs |
2019 Kona Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
The Kona's overall party piece is wonderful driving dynamics that send it straight to the top of the subcompact CUV segment. Those dynamics are led first and foremost by the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and the Kona's light weight, which propels it rapidly from both standstill and whilst on the move, in spite of the dual-clutch gearbox retarding performance. But once you're bored of the acceleration, there's some genuine depth and breadth of ability as far as the Kona is concerned.
Upon initial inspection, the steering is dull and lifeless, and the resistance on the wheel is artificial and rubbery. The weighting is also false, but keep it in sport mode and as you push on there's some genuine load and feedback that starts to work its way through the system. Lean on the steering through corners and you'll find an abundance of grip and composure that begs the Kona to be driven in much the same way you would the Mazda CX-3, like a hot hatch. The suspension offers loads of support and just a touch of body roll through hard corners. But it keeps things glued to the surface and leaves you feeling one with the driving experience. If it had to be criticized, it'd be for the slight bounciness over mid-corner bumps, driven largely by the fact that the Kona weighs just 3,000 pounds on average. This is improved a little in all-wheel drive models that carry a little extra weight and also offer independent rear suspension.
The ride quality when relaxed is just as exemplary, and it's not just the fancy suspension in the all-wheel drive model, but the standard setup too that really impresses with levels of comfort over large and small bumps alike, and the Kona shines brightest in this regard.
Where it could be improved is in the braking department, where the Kona just doesn't quite have the same efficacy as many rivals. The pedal feels good and is easy to modulate, and the Kona is composed under hard braking, but 60-0 mph brake tests have yielded substandard results compared to rivals.
2019 Kona Interior
2019 Kona Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 10 Years / 100,000 Miles | 7 Years / Unlimited Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2019 Hyundai Kona A Good SUV?
Subcompact crossover SUVs aren't renowned for spacious interiors, and the Kona offers one of the smaller interiors around in the segment. But it caters to demand for high quality on a budget, and Hyundai has equipped the Kona not only with high levels of specification but an abundance of safety and driver assistance features as well. While those aspects may lure buyers interested in the superficial, there's genuine substance beneath the striking looks, with a capable chassis, an endearing drive, high levels of ride comfort, and of course that potent turbocharged engine giving the Kona best in class performance. While it's still early on in its lifespan, and reliability remains to be determined, there's little not to love about this funky crossover from Korea.
What Hyundai Kona Model Should I Buy?
The Kona SEL with tech Package may sound enticing, but it misses out on the turbocharged engine. For that reason, we recommend the Limited trim, as it equips that 175 hp turbocharged 1.6-liter motor, as well as LED exterior lighting, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Additionally, the Limited unlocks the Lime Twist exterior and interior color scheme, and packs all of the features of the SEL Tech package, including a power sunroof, eight-way power driver's seat adjustment, an Infiniti premium sound system, and the Blue Link connected car system. At a shade over $25,000 the Kona Limited is huge value for money.
2019 Hyundai Kona Comparisons
2019 Hyundai Kona vs Honda HR-V
Honda is notorious for packaging high quality, commodious cabins in affordable packages annd the HR-V is no exception. As their smallest crossover, it still packs more storage space than the Kona with a high-quality interior, but that's where it ends, as the Kona manages to best the HR-V in most aspects. The Kona boasts a more intuitive infotainment system, higher levels of specification, and a more engaging drive. With the turbocharged engine equipped, the Kona also provides far better performance than the HR-V, and is only marginally less economical than the Honda. For practicality and space, the Honda is great, but as a complete package, the Kona is hard to beat.
2019 Hyundai Kona vs Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is the Kona's larger brother, and as such it comes with more rear passenger space, a larger trunk, and higher ground clearance. But the Kona, at least in its higher trims, offers comparable spec levels, while the lighter weight of the smaller body ensures the Kona gets better gas mileage. The turbocharged engine also performs far better in the Kona, giving the Kona quicker performance, while it manages to handle better as well. Between the two, it comes down to needs. If you require space and practicality, the more comfortable Tucson is better, but if you don't need the same storage and passenger space but would prefer performance, enjoyment, and high levels of specification for a lower price, the Kona is a great alternative.