Known for its innovation and take on the latest technology, Hyundai is among the top car manufacturers around the world. It has launched models in different car segments that gained ground due to their design and features. The Hyundai Kona is among these models which revolutionised the brand’s foothold in the automotive industry.
A well-known fact about Hyundai is that it is a leading auto manufacturer in South Korea with many popular models under its belt. The compact SUV, Kona, is Hyundai’s signature car in the segment. It is currently in its second generation as an electric, petrol-powered and N-line variant in the markets.
Let’s revisit the Hyundai Kona’s history and go through its generations and features.
HYUNDAI KONA GENERATIONS
The history of Hyundai is filled with the brand’s ever-evolving approach to innovation and technology. That said, the Kona is one of those models that depict this technology adaptation.
Let’s go through the history of the Hyundai Kona. These details will reason for its popularity in the SUV segment.
HYUNDAI KONA FIRST GENERATION (2017-2020)
The first generation of the Hyundai Kona was unveiled in 2017. The model was an addition to Korea’s brand SUV lineup. Kona was introduced as a contender to many popular models of the time which included Peugeot 2008, Dacia Duster and Nissan Juke.
The Kona had a compact SUV shape, slightly raised ride height, and sporty appearance. The sculpted body adorned a wide front grille with the Hyundai logo in the middle. The upper part of the front body featured daytime running lamps. Meanwhile, the front bumper was equipped with headlights and five air-intakes. The SUV housed a wheelbase of 102 inches.
The Kona offered a well-designed and practical interior with seating for five passengers. Apart from leather car upholstery, the premium upholstery was provided with an optional infotainment screen with Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports.
Two engines powered the first model in the Hyundai Kona history. They included:
- A 1.0-litre T-GDI engine producing 120 horsepower, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. It came with an FWD powertrain system.
- A 1.6-litre engine generating 177 horsepower, mated with a seven-speed automatic transmission. It was introduced with an AWD system.
- A 1.6-litre GDI hybrid engine which boosted 141 horsepower. It was mated with a six-speed automatic transmission.
In 2018, an all-electric version of Kona was introduced. The SUV was powered by a 64 kWh battery back which produced 201 horsepower. Moreover, the car was made more aerodynamic for the new version. It also ranked as one of the EVs with a long range since it could propel from 0 to 100km/hr in just 7.9 seconds.
HYUNDAI KONA FIRST GENERATION FACELIFT (2021)
In late 2020, Hyundai decided to revamp the design and powertrain of the Kona for the 2021 model year. The facelifted version of the Kona brought several updates to its exterior design, interior features, and technology.
The front fascia was restyled for a modified look. The SUV front now had a sleeker look with the brand’s logo mounted in the middle. The daytime running lamps merged with the front car grille on either side of it. The petrol variants of the Kona had an internal combustion engine and came equipped with a 3D mesh grille in black colour. Also, the car now had LED headlights.
The interior still provided seating for five. However, certain changes were made such as the addition of heated seats that added to the SUV’s cabin comfort. The 2021 model of the Hyundai Kona history received an updated infotainment system with a larger touchscreen display. It featured the latest version of Hyundai’s infotainment software, offering improved functionality and connectivity options. Moreover, a new digital instrument cluster, charging ports and an ambient lighting system was introduced for a more premium feel.
The refreshed version drew power from a choice of two engines. They are as follows:
- An N-line 1.6-litre engine which produced 195 horsepower. It came mated with a seven-speed automatic transmission.
- A 2.0-litre CVT that generated 147 horsepower.
Additionally, the new Kona version came equipped with a host of modern safety features. Some of them included:
- Lane-keeping assist
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Automatic emergency braking
- Adaptive cruise control
HYUNDAI KONA SECOND GENERATION (2023-PRESENT)
The second and new generation of the Hyundai Kona will be introduced in 2023. Hyundai has introduced this model with the internal combustion and electric versions side by side to keep up with both assembly lines. It is one of the most awaited Hyundai models of 2023.
The petrol-powered version houses a look of the Kona electric variant. The front fascia showcases an LED light strip that runs the entire length of the hood. Underneath, the bumper has been redesigned with a broader radiator grille. Headlights are placed on either side of the grille with amber blinkers.
Moreover, the SUV houses a sculpted body look with unpainted cladding on the wheel arches and side sills. Inches have been added to different dimensions. Also, the rear taillights have been mounted on the quarter panels, their position on the outer side.
The 2023 Hyundai Kona models offer a modern interior with ample seating space for five. The two 12.3-inch infotainment displays are equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Besides, a 12-inch HUD offers additional information to add to the ride’s comfort. The car is equipped with several safety features such as Hyundai’s Safe Exit Assist.
The current petrol engines of Kona are available in two choices. The model has been launched with an AWD and FWD drivetrain system. The engine options are as follows:
- A 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It produces 192 horsepower.
- A 2.0-litre Atkinson cycle engine that produces 149 horsepower.
All in all, these are the details and features included in the Hyundai Kona history. With a roomy interior and a dynamic powertrain, the Kona is an apt choice for SUV lovers. To avail the above-mentioned features, you can browse through these used Hyundai Kona for sale in the UAE.
You can also sift through these used Hyundai cars for sale in the UAE if other models by the brand are more your speed. Also, you can visit Hyundai showrooms in the UAE for further inquiries about their models.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more on car generations and features of popular brands.
Related Posts
