Hyundai’s Kona bigger, better
Entry-level SUV lot of value for the buck
Hyundai has become a significant part of families across the country because of their rightly priced vehicles with great factory warranties. With an array of vehicles fit for every member of the family, the Hyundai Kona surfaces in 2024 with a larger and more capable vehicle than ever.
Wrapped in Denim Blue Pearl, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD shows out in Grasso’s Garage very nicely. Its small frame and compact-like size have a lot of value for the buck.
The ever-popular and proven 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 190 horsepower or 147 with the 2.0-liter option. Both engine options are paired with an eightspeed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The HTRAC all-wheel drive system also surfaces on the Kona as in past models and is nicely utilized for those drivers who battle winters with snow. This powertrain combination manufactured commuter-like fuel mileage, and on our test we attained 28 mpg consistently.
On the interior, we noticed a 12.3inch infotainment system with navigation and connectivity. The seats were very spacious and roomy. The second-generation Hyundai Kona, which rolled out in 2023, has received a new front and rear fascia, and a hybrid version has been added to the fleet. Overall the Kona has grown 5.9 inches and added 2.4 inches in length to the wheelbase.
The Hyundai Kona serves its fleet and customers congruently. It’s a well priced entry-level SUV that resembles the Hyundai Santa Fe on the interior while having a smaller hatchback style storage without the price and truck bed. As the Kona is larger than the previous generation, and still smaller than the Tucson, the Kona is the second smallest SUV in the fleet, but easily the biggest bang for the buck.