Hyundai first unveiled the second-gen Kona late last year by sharing a few images, without going into too much detail. Fortunately, an expanded photo gallery with additional technical specifications is now available. We can finally take a good look inside and out to discover just how much the crossover has changed in a relatively short time frame since the original model went on sale less than six years ago.
Bigger than its predecessor, the 2024 Kona has extended its wheelbase by 60 millimeters to 2,660 mm. Its overall length has increased by 145 mm (5.7 in) to 4,350 mm (171.2 in), while its width is now 1,825 mm (71.9 in). With 17-inch tires, the sub-compact crossover is 1,580 mm high. These dimensions apply to the ICE and Hybrid models. However, the proportions of the EV should be fairly similar as it will use the same platform.
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home in south korea, Hyundai intends to sell the new Kona with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter gasoline engine that produces 147 horsepower and 180 Newton-meters (132 pound-feet) of torque, delivered to the wheels via a CVT. Climb into the turbocharged 1.6-liter engine and you get 195 hp and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft) along with an eight-speed automatic.
As for the hybrid, it uses a bespoke 1.6-litre power unit that works in tandem with an electric motor to offer “impressive acceleration and high efficiency”. Combined power was rated at 139 hp and 265 Nm (195 lb-ft), sent to the road via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic.
In terms of practicality, the cargo volume with the rear seats folded is 723 liters (25.5 cu ft), while the shift-by-wire gear selector has created a roomier front compartment with enough room to stow large bags. Hyundai also touts best-in-class shoulder room for rear passengers and a programmable power tailgate that allows owners to choose the opening height and even the speed at which it opens and closes.
Memory seats, wireless charging and OTA updates are supported, along with NFC technology to turn your smartphone or smartwatch into a digital key. Thanks to additional sound-absorbing material, double-laminated soundproof glass on the windshield, thicker floor carpet and sound-absorbing tires for the 19-inch wheels, the cabin is said to be quieter than before.
Although the second-gen Kona now has a pair of 12.3-inch screens, you still get plenty of physical buttons on the center console for quick access to commonly used functions. We’d argue that this layout is the best of both worlds rather than having to cram everything into infotainment or clutter the dash with too many physical controls.
Hyundai plans to provide more information about the global model in March, when we’ll also learn about the Kona EV.
