Hyundai adds yet another CUV to its lineup

Korean automaker targets growing subcompact sector with 2018 Kona

Hyundai has taken the wraps off the latest addition to its CUV lineup with the 2018 Kona.

Slotting below the Tucson, the all-new subcompact crossover is yet another entry into a rapidly growing segment. Smaller than the Tucson, the Kona is aimed at other subcompact CUVs such as the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3 and Toyota C-HR.

Although available with a plethora of gasoline and diesel engines in other global markets, North America will make do with two available powertrains. The base engine is a 2.0-litre, four cylinder, putting out 149 horsepower and mated to a sixspeed automatic transmission.

If that’s not enough kick, the Kona will also be available with a 1.6-L turbo-four, putting out 177 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque. That particular engine is paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. At some point in 2018, Hyundai will reportedly add an all-electric powertrain to the Kona lineup, with about 350 kilometres of range.

Both front- and all-wheel drive will be available on the Kona, but there are some differences between the two beneath the skin. Front-drive models use a torsion-beam suspension setup in the rear, while AWD models have a multilink setup, resulting in improved handling and driving dynamics. The Kona will also let drivers tailor how the crossover behaves through selectable driving modes, choosing between Eco, Sport and Normal.

On the outside, Hyundai has put in considerable effort to toughen up the Kona. Coming across as a mix between a Jeep Cherokee and a Citroen C4 Cactus, the Kona features Hyundai’s cascading grill, as well as a twin-headlight design and copious body cladding. Some might find it chunky from certain angles, but the Kona certainly doesn’t blend in.

Depending on the trim level, a five-, seven- or eight-inch touch screen handles infotainment duties with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A headup display will be available, along with wireless charging for certain cellphones. Active safety kit such as a blind-spot monitor, lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking will be available.

The Kona will go on sale in Korea later this summer, followed by North America in early 2018.