Hyundai has unveiled its all-new Kona, which will spread the design of the electric version across the rest of the range of powertrains. It will still be a compact SUV, but its larger dimensions will improve cabin space.
The new Kona will come as an all-electric (EV), as a hybrid, with an internal-combustion gasoline engine (ICE), and as the sporty N Line. The South Korean automaker said the architecture will be the same for all of them, but each will have unique styling. The stylists started with the EV and then adapted that design to the other variants.
The new Kona is 150 mm (5.9 inches) longer than the current model, while the wheelbase stretches an additional 60 mm (2.3 inches). All include a horizontal light stretching across the car’s nose, which is pixelated on the EV. The headlamps and taillights are incorporated into the cladding from the wheel arches.
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
2024 Hyundai Kona Photo by Hyundai
The EV also receives pixelated graphics on the intake grille, rear bumper, and the 19-inch wheels, and offers optional black mirrors and roof. The gas and hybrid versions share their bumper and skid plate design and have black wheel arches. The N Line carries unique front and rear design cues, 19-inch wheels, silver side skirts, and wing-type spoiler.
Inside, the Kona features a 12.3-inch centre screen, column-mounted electronic gear shifter, and ambient lighting. Hyundai said the second-row “curve-less” seat offers a “unique experience with maximum usability, comfort and convenience,” and with maximized cargo space behind it.
The company released the images globally and said the availability of certain features may vary in different markets, along with the timing — and that more details beyond the initial design will be revealed in the coming months. While not confirmed, we expect that this all-new Kona will be a 2024 here. In Canada, the current model-year 2023 Kona is available in gas, electric, or N Line, but not as a hybrid.
Jil McIntosh
Jil McIntosh specializes in new-car reviews, auto technology and antique cars, including the two 1940s vehicles in her garage.
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Keyword: Hyundai's new 2024 Kona compact SUV gets a fresh face