Hyundai Unveils All-New KONA with Extensive Powertrain Options and Advanced Features

Jacob Brooke
March 7, 2023

Hyundai Motor Company has revealed the all-new KONA, an upscaled multiplayer in the B-SUV segment that offers one of the most comprehensive product packages, including the widest range of powertrains. Led by an all-electric variant (EV), the new KONA is a major step in Hyundai’s IONIQ electrification vision. The KONA Electric delivers class-leading all-electric range (AER) in the B-SUV segment, offering a long-range 65.4-kWh battery that delivers WLTP-estimated 490 km of range, based on European specifications.

All-New KONA Interior

Hyundai has taken an unconventional approach, developing the new KONA as an EV first, in line with the company’s accelerated electrification strategy. Customers can choose from EV (standard or long range), hybrid electric (HEV), and internal combustion engine (ICE) variants, as well as sporty N Line versions of each. The new KONA is designed and engineered to lead the competition with many outstanding features.

Hyundai will release specifications of the HEV and ICE variants at a later date.

KONA Electric comes with frunk storage, active air flaps, interior and exterior Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) outlets, Head-up Display (HUD), i-PEDAL driving mode, Smart Regenerative System, electronic-Active Sound Design (e-ASD), and additional safety features. The V2L function can power any device or charge electrical equipment, with both interior and exterior outlets for convenience. Inside, devices can be plugged into a standard outlet on the rear center console when the EV is powered on. Outside, devices and home appliances can be plugged in using a V2L adapter to use battery power when the car is parked.

In addition to the Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp and Pixel graphics, KONA Electric offers even more features for an improved customer experience. The HUD displays the most relevant information for drivers as a 12-inch projection on the windshield. And the e-ASD creates a virtual sound that makes EVs more engaging for the driver.

All-New KONA Interior

The new KONA is also the first Hyundai model to apply the new Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC), which provides advanced graphics and perfect unity among the vehicle displays. When parking, Surround View Monitor (SVM) displays the vehicle from various viewpoints for safe and easy parking, while efficient, wide projection LED headlamps light the way.

The KONA Electric has eight-speaker Bose Premium Sound System plus subwoofer that has been tuned by Bose engineers to deliver a rich and immersive listening experience. The car is also equipped with the latest version of Hyundai’s connectivity technology and Bluelink® Streaming Service for music and videos will be provided later.

The KONA brims with other various advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), such as Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and High Beam Assist (HBA). It also equipped with various driving convenience functions, such as Smart Cruise Control (SCC), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC), Lane Following Assist (LFA), and Highway Driving Assist (HDA).

All-New KONA Driving Shot

KONA Electric offers additional safety features, such as Forward Collision-avoidance Assist 2.0 (FCA 2.0), which provides evasive steering, junction crossing, lane change ongoing, and lane change side lane. It also has Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), which helps drivers maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead and assists by overtaking slower vehicles in front.

The KONA Electric comes in various colors, and the interior is available in several options, including Black Mono, Grey Two-tone, Black and Sage Green, Black and Beige, Black and Red point (N Line variant only), and Dark Gray Mono (Eco pack only)

All-New KONA Rear Shot

Compared to the previous generation, the KONA has grown in length, wheelbase, width, and height, offering more headroom, legroom, and shoulder room for passengers. The KONA's cargo space has also been increased, with up to 466 liters of space in the boot/trunk based on VDA standards and up to 723 liters based on SAE standards. Additionally, the KONA Electric has a frunk storage area of 27 liters, which is a great addition for extra storage.

The KONA Electric boasts a class-leading driving range of over 490 km, thanks to its long-range 65.4-kWh battery. It also features a standard range 48.4-kWh battery. The KONA is available in both 2WD and comes with power ranging from 114.6 kW to 160 kW, and torque at 255 Nm. These specifications make the new KONA a significant step in Hyundai's electrification strategy.

EV Specs:

  • Long Range 65.4kWh Battery (490km range) - 2wd | 160kW | 255Nm
  • Standard range 49.4kWh Battery (TBC range) - 2wd | 114.6kW | 255Nm

Note: options with combustion engine to be released at later date. Stay tuned!

What do you think of the new Kona? Let us know in the comment section below!

Looking for car finance?

Get pre-approved car loan offers from over 30 Aussie lenders in minutes.

Jacob Brooke
Jacob Brooke, a respected voice in the world of automotive journalism, brings a wealth of knowledge and insights to his reviews at CarSauce. His keen eye for detail and passion for all things cars shine through in his in-depth analysis and honest evaluations of the latest models of cars. Join him as he guides readers through the car-buying process and explores the exciting world of motoring.

Other car news

Mazda Australia Initiates Recall of BT-50 Models Due to Potential Fire Risk

Mazda Australia recalls 8,936 BT-50 models (2021-2023) due to potential fire risk from fuel hose issue. Owners urged to contact dealers.
Matt Brand
December 4, 2023

Toyota's Urban SUV Concept: Innovative or a Suzuki Reskin? A Closer Look at the 2024 Electric Contender

Unveiling the truth behind Toyota's Urban SUV Concept, set for a 2024 release. Is it a groundbreaking electric SUV or a disguised Suzuki?
Matt Brand
December 4, 2023

2024 Kia Picanto (Facelift): Upgraded Safety, New Style at a Steeper Price

2024 Kia Picanto revs up with advanced safety, fresh colors, and sleek design. Price rises, but value soars?
Jacob Brooke
December 4, 2023

Sign up to our newsletter

Be the first to know when we drop new car reviews.

By clicking Sign Up you're confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Thank you! Welcome to the Car Sauce community!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.