Introduction
The 2025 Hyundai Kona brings a fresh and stylish approach to the compact SUV market, blending sporty design with advanced technology and a comfortable interior. The Kona offers versatile performance options, impressive fuel efficiency, and modern tech to satisfy a range of drivers, from urban commuters to weekend adventurers. With its redesigned look for 2025, the Hyundai Kona delivers not only on style but also on safety, tech, and engine performance, making it a compelling choice in the subcompact SUV category.
Overview
The Hyundai Kona is a standout in the compact SUV space, with a bold design that sets it apart from traditional competitors. Its exterior features a sleeker profile, bold lighting elements, and Hyundai’s signature grille, giving it a distinct and modern appeal. The interior of the Kona is spacious and comfortable, with seating for five and ample cargo space that expands when the rear seats are folded down, making it versatile for both city drives and road trips.
Inside, the Kona features a user-friendly infotainment system with a standard 8-inch touchscreen (upgradable to a 10.25-inch screen) that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The high-quality cabin materials, ambient lighting options, and available leather upholstery create a pleasant, upscale environment. Hyundai has also included various tech options like a heads-up display, a premium sound system, and a suite of safety features, making the Kona a well-rounded choice.
Engines and Performance
The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers multiple engine options to cater to different driving needs:
2.0-Liter Inline-Four Engine – The base model is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), this engine is designed for efficiency, offering a smooth driving experience with fuel economy that suits everyday driving. This setup is available with front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
1.6-Liter Turbocharged Engine – For those seeking more power, the Kona also offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, delivering quicker acceleration and a sportier drive. All-wheel drive is also available with this engine, making it more capable in varying road conditions.
Kona N – At the top of the lineup is the high-performance Kona N, featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with an impressive 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. This sporty model includes a custom-tuned suspension, sport exhaust, and performance brakes, making it ideal for drivers seeking a thrilling experience in a compact SUV.
Each engine option provides a balance of power and efficiency, with fuel economy ratings reaching up to 35 mpg on the highway in the base model, while the turbo options add extra excitement for those prioritizing performance.
Interior and Comfort
The interior of the Hyundai Kona is designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. The spacious cabin features supportive seating with optional upgrades like leather upholstery, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. Rear-seat passengers benefit from ample headroom and legroom, making the Kona comfortable for all occupants.
For added convenience, the Kona offers flexible cargo space with a maximum of 45.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. Practical features such as multiple USB ports, wireless charging, and optional ambient lighting enhance the Kona’s appeal, providing a connected and enjoyable experience for both drivers and passengers.
Safety and Technology
Hyundai prioritizes safety with the Kona, equipping it with advanced driver-assistance features. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, making it one of the safer choices in its class.
The infotainment system is another highlight, with a standard 8-inch touchscreen (10.25 inches on higher trims) that includes seamless smartphone integration. A digital instrument cluster displays real-time vehicle data, while the optional head-up display projects important information onto the windshield for easy viewing. Additionally, Hyundai’s Blue Link connected services offer remote start, vehicle tracking, and emergency assistance.
Summary
The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers an appealing mix of style, technology, and performance that sets it apart in the compact SUV market. With multiple engine options, an array of tech and safety features, and a spacious, comfortable interior, the Kona caters to a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re looking for an efficient daily driver or a sporty compact SUV with a punch, the Hyundai Kona delivers on versatility, making it a top contender in its class.
