The Hyundai Kona is a rarity in the often bland and forgettable subcompact SUV segment, offering a pair of souped-up turbocharged engines and an all-electric variant. It has been completely redesigned for the 2024 model year, and it may now even be more compelling, depending on what you are looking for. If you want a fire-breathing lifted hot hatch with stiff suspension and nearly 300 hp, you’re going to be out of luck, because it looks like the Kona N isn’t coming back for the new generation. However, if you want an extremely efficient and tech-forward commuter—which probably better describes most people shopping in this segment—then the 2024 Hyundai Kona has a ton to look forward to.
Embracing Electricity
For 2024, the Hyundai Kona will continue to be offered with both gasoline and all-electric powertrains. However, Hyundai is really pushing electrification and, instead of simply shoving some batteries and an electric motor into a gasoline car, they actually designed the electric version first this time. That means you get to enjoy an incredibly futuristic-looking SUV with an improved drag coefficient that doesn’t look out of place alongside high-end models like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. You even get a sleek light bar that wraps around the entire front end. The best way to tell the gas and electric versions apart is that the gas Kona has black fender flares and a larger grille.
A total of four powertrains are available: two gas and two electric. The gasoline options remain unchanged from the 2023 model, with a 2.0L four-cylinder producing 147 hp and a 1.6L turbocharged engine producing 195 hp. While that may be slower than the outgoing Kona N, the only model in this segment that offers more power is the Mazda CX-30 Turbo. The two electric options are both front-wheel drive, with your choice between 260 miles of range and 201 hp or 197 miles of range and 133 hp. All four options should provide a satisfactory driving experience, so the choice is yours.
More Space, More Features
For most drivers, the biggest change for the 2024 Hyundai Kona is the larger footprint. The new model is nearly six inches longer and one inch wider, providing a more spacious cabin and stretching the definition of a “subcompact” SUV. Rear seat passengers will enjoy a full three inches of additional legroom, and you will have an impressive 40% more cargo space with the rear seats folded down. In fact, the new Kona has only 0.2 cu.ft. less cargo space than the popular Chevy Equinox. While the outgoing model was pretty much limited to individuals, the new Kona could be a practical choice for small families.
Inside the cabin, you will also find plenty of tech features designed to improve your time on the road. The front row now faces a pair of 12-inch screens—one for the driver and one for infotainment. The infotainment system itself uses Hyundai’s latest software and is equipped for over-the-air updates, so it will remain up to date for the lifetime of the vehicle. You will even be able to use Digital Key 2 Touch, which allows you to leave your key fob at home and use your smartphone or a Tesla-style Card Key instead. You can even share your key with friends and family through Apple Wallet or Samsung Pass!
Shaking Up the Subcompact SUV Segment
We expect the redesigned 2024 Hyundai Kona will be a hit with many drivers. The high-tech interior and futuristic exterior stand out in the subcompact segment, and the larger size of the vehicle makes it more versatile for many of its users. With the choice between four gasoline and electric powertrains, you can tailor the Kona to your needs, whether you want a basic commuter, a sporty SUV, or a zero-emissions ride. While enthusiasts may miss the Kona N, there will be plenty here to enjoy.
