The 2024 Hyundai Kona Is A Utilitarian Crossover In A Stylish Wrapper

The 2024 Hyundai Kona in Mirage Green

Hyundai has completely redesigned the Kona for the 2024 model year. The popular entry-level subcompact crossover was known for its bold styling in its first generation. While a few sporty features remain, the redesign has seen the Kona adopt several modern elements seen on Hyundai’s more upmarket vehicles while remaining at the affordable end of the Korean automaker’s lineup. But, the two are not without their shortcomings.

Full Disclosure: Hyundai flew me out to Baltimore, Maryland to drive the Kona. The automaker paid for my airfare, accommodations and food.

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The Kona Electric’s closed-off front end

The similarities with recent Hyundai models are even more apparent on the new Kona Electric. The electric crossover features pixel-shaped accent lighting beneath the front and rear bumpers, similar to Hyundai’s Ioniq models. It’s not surprising, considering the popularity of the retrofuturistic styling elements.

The Kona’s active grille shutters closing

Hyundai aimed to keep the design for the combustion and electric Kona as close as possible. The shared body shape has allowed both models to reap the benefits of refined aerodynamics. However, the pair has some differences beyond the pixel accent lighting. The combustion model is fitted with active grille shutters to feed cool air to the engine as needed. Like most EVs, the Kona Electric has no engine under the hood to cool and its front end is closed off.

Restrained Powertrain

The 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four engine

The 2024 Hyundai Kona is fitted with a two-liter inline-four engine as standard. The powerplant makes 147 horsepower. The higher-end N-Line and Limited trim levels utilize a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four, producing 190 horsepower. All-wheel drive is an available option at all trim levels.