Hyundai has given us the first details of the all-new Kona, which will go on sale in late 2023.
The new Kona shares a platform with the current Kia Niro, and like that car, it's a little bit bigger and roomier than the model it's replacing. The new Kona will be 150mm longer than before, 25mm wider, and has an extra 60mm in the wheelbase.
Electric, hybrid and petrol
As with the current version, the new Kona will have multiple powertrain options. So far, Hyundai has confirmed that it will be produced with petrol, hybrid and fully-electric power, mirroring the outgoing model (though Hyundai Ireland has yet to confirm which will be offered for sale here). There's been no mention of a plug-in hybrid, but given the relationship to the Kia Niro, clearly, one is technically possible.
There's also been no mention of a high-performance Kona N to replace the current 280hp version, but a sporty-looking N-Line model has been confirmed. Indeed, each Kona will get distinct exterior styling to help you tell them apart at a glance.
Pixel graphics
You'll be able to tell an electric Kona by the 'pixel' graphics on the light bar, the front bumper and air intake, while petrol and hybrid models get an off-roading style 'skidplate'. N-Line models will get a front bumper with some of the looks of a racing car's front wing. Some will come with 19-inch wheels.
All versions will get that distinctive wraparound front LED bar (called a 'Seamless Horizon Lamp'), the Land Rover-Esque 'clamshell' bonnet, and the slim full-width rear light bar. "Upscaled with Kona's unique character, the all-new Kona confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence," said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. "Kona has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter."
Inspired by the Ioniq 5
The biggest change is to the interior, which does away with the current model's cabin and replaces it with one that takes clear inspiration (and, indeed, parts) from the Ioniq 5, including the full-width 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and matching touchscreen. There's ambient lighting and the gear selector has been moved from the centre console to the steering column so as to free up extra storage space, but thankfully, you still get physical controls for heating and ventilation, as well as the heated seats. There should be more space in the back seat too, where Hyundai is using what it calls a 'second-row Curve-less Bench Seat.'
Hyundai hasn't given us the precise details of the boot space yet, but it is said to be improved compared to the relatively small 375-litre boot of the current model. The Kia Niro, depending on the version, has a boot bigger than 400 litres, so expect something in that ballpark. Hyundai simply says that the space has been 'maximised.'
Irish pricing and specifications for the new Hyundai Kona will be released closer to its on-sale date later in the year.