Autoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.MSRP:$24,550OverviewThe 2025 Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV carries forward the second generation introduced in 2024, delivering attractive styling, a technology-forward cabin, and a choice of two powertrains across six trim levels. SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims draw power from a 147-horsepower naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a CVT, while the N Line S, N Line, and Limited step up to a 190-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to an eight-speed automatic, with all-wheel drive being optional on every trim. Positioned above the Venue and below the Tucson in Hyundai's lineup, the 2025 Kona targets buyers who want practical daily-driving capability without sacrificing modern features or warranty coverage.What's New for 2025?The 2025 Kona's changes follow its comprehensive 2024 redesign and focus primarily on trim-level restructuring. The SEL Convenience transitions from an optional package on the SEL into its own standalone trim, giving buyers direct access to its heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, digital instrument cluster, and onboard navigation.AdvertisementAdvertisementHyundai also adds the N Line S as a new entry point to the performance lineup, slotting below the N Line and combining the turbocharged engine with N Line-specific exterior styling at a lower price. The 64-color adjustable ambient lighting from the Limited trim is made standard on the N Line S and N Line trims as well this year.ExteriorThe Kona's second-generation styling makes a strong impression with parametric pixel LED headlamps, a wide grille, and sharp character lines running the length of the body. The roofline stays fairly flat, preserving rear headroom despite the tapering profile. SE trims ride on 17-inch alloy wheels, the SEL and SEL Convenience move up to 18-inch units, and N Line S through Limited don 19-inch alloys. N Line and N Line S models receive unique front and rear bumpers, black-accented trim, and a twin-tip exhaust. An optional contrasting black roof is available on N Line trims in Atlas White, Ecotronic Gray, and Ultimate Red.2026 Hyundai KonaHyundaiView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articleInteriorThe Kona's cabin opens with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen that runs across the dashboard on the driver's side and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on every trim. SEL Convenience, N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims pair it with a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster to form a seamless dual-screen display. Wireless device charging and onboard navigation come with the SEL Convenience, Limited, and N Line trims. AdvertisementAdvertisementBose's 8-speaker premium audio system is standard on the N Line and Limited, while the Limited adds ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, H-Tex leatherette upholstery, and a hands-free smart liftgate. Cargo capacity stands at 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expands to 63.7 cubic feet with the second row folded flat.HyundaiView the 3 images of this gallery on the original articlePrice Range and Best Value TrimTrimMSRP (FWD)Base: SE FWD$24,550Top: Limited AWD$33,600Best Value: SEL FWD$25,900Key SpecsPowertrain OptionsEngineHorsepowerTorqueTransmissionDrivetrain2.0L NA I4 (SE, SEL, SEL Convenience)147 hp132 lb-ftCVTFWD / AWD1.6L Turbo I4 (N Line S, N Line, Limited)190 hp195 lb-ft8-speed automaticFWD / AWDPerformanceMetric2.0L1.6L Turbo0-60 mphEst. 9.5 sec7.5-8.5 secFuel Economy (EPA)ConfigurationCityHighwayCombined2.0L FWD (SE)29 mpg34 mpg31 mpg2.0L FWD (SEL, SEL Convenience)28 mpg35 mpg31 mpg2.0L AWD26-27 mpg29 mpg27-28 mpg1.6L Turbo FWD26 mpg32 mpg28 mpg1.6L Turbo AWD24 mpg29 mpg26 mpgWarrantyCoverage TypeDurationBasic5 years / 60,000 milesPowertrain10 years / 100,000 milesComplimentary Maintenance3 years / 36,000 milesRoadside Assistance5 years / Unlimited milesAnti-Perforation7 years / Unlimited milesPros and ConsProsIndustry-leading powertrain warrantyStandard 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless CarPlay/Android Auto63.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity is competitiveAll-wheel drive is optional on every trim levelAdvertisementAdvertisementConsBase 2.0-liter engine lacks urgencySoft suspension results in body roll through cornersN Line S omits Highway Driving Assist, sunroof, and Bose audioVerdictThe 2025 Kona makes a strong case in the subcompact segment by combining a feature-per-dollar advantage with Hyundai's class-leading warranty. Making the 12.3-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration standard across all six trims removes the usual penalties for choosing an entry-level model. The 2025 Hyundai Kona's price range is well segregated for various buyer requirements, but we think that the SEL is the right pick for most, adding a power driver seat, 18-inch wheels, and dual-zone automatic climate control over the SE for a $1,350 step that's hard to argue against. Buyers after the 190-hp turbocharged engine should consider the N Line S, which pairs it with N Line exterior styling at a good price. The base engine's limited output at highway speeds remains the lineup's most noticeable weakness.2026 Hyundai KonaHyundaiCompetitorsChevrolet TraxHonda HR-VMazda CX-30Volkswagen TaosKia SeltosAdvertisementAdvertisementThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Sep 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the Cars section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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