2023 Hyundai Kona to come in various powertrains and unique styling

MANILA: For its new generation Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV, due out for the 2023 model year, Hyundai Motor Company unveiled a futuristic design inspired by electric vehicles. The upgraded model will be offered in four variations, including an all-electric (EV), a hybrid electric (HEV), an internal combustion engine (ICE), and the sporty N Line, each with its own distinct style and construction.

With the 2023 Hyundai Kona, Hyundai has expanded its EV offerings, pioneered and enhanced by the award-winning Ioniq lineup, while also serving the different mobility needs of its consumers with a variety of powertrains. Hyundai is committed to sustainable mobility and technology-led design thinking.

“Upscaled with Kona's unique character, the all-new Kona confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. “Kona has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter."

The all-new Kona has evolved into a larger yet still urban-centric SUV with bolder styling that conveys a more dynamic road presence and driver-centric interior. To provide maximized ‘living space’ for customers, the all-new model grew to 4,355 mm in length, which is 150 mm longer from the previous generation, based on the EV variant. It also gained 25 mm in width and 60 mm in wheelbase length compared to the outgoing model without losing any of its iconic design identity.

Unlike most vehicles that are made available with a variety of powertrains, the 2023 Hyundai Kona started with the EV variant design, which was then adapted for the 2023 Hyundai Kona ICE, HEV and N Line models. This unconventional approach allowed Hyundai to bring tech-centric design thinking to all Kona variants. Despite the shared architecture, EV, ICE/HEV and sporty N Line model have distinctive futuristic styling elements.

The all-new crossover’s clean, distinctive nose characterizes the front section’s pure volume, which contributes to the model’s smooth aerodynamic performance. The pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp, which is pixelated on the EV variant, marking the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp that adds to the EV’s distinctive character.

The model’s use of Parametric Pixels also propagates a distinctive design element from Hyundai’s popular EV lineup — and depicts a look similar to the 2023 Hyundai Stargazer and Staria.

The 2023 Hyundai never lets one forget that it is an SUV despite its futuristic exterior. Boldly carved wheel arch cladding that includes headlamps and taillamps highlights its dramatic design while highlighting the Kona's solid foundation.

There are many parametric surfaces on the automobile. The sides' acute diagonal crease creates a contour that surrounds the entire car, joining the satin chrome molding from the beltline to the spoiler. On the back, there is a second Seamless Horizon Lamp and a high-mounted stop lamp (HMSL) that is perfectly incorporated into the spoiler's slick chrome molding.

Different powertrain options have different aesthetics. The 2023 Hyundai Kona EV features optional black side mirrors and a black roof, as well as pixel graphic accents on the intake grille and rear bumper, a 19-inch alloy wheel design inspired by pixels, and a black embracing line. Black wheel arch cladding, a brazen and tough bumper design, and skid plates are all shared by the ICE and HEV.

As for the 2023 Hyundai Kona N Line, it features distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels, dual mufflers, optional black side mirrors and top, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper to accentuate a lower look, and silver side skirt.

The increased interior "living area" of the 2023 Hyundai Kona offers useful amenities and an advanced in-car experience to support a variety of lifestyles. The universal architecture, which is developed from EVs, allows for a sporty layout with a floating horizontal C-Pad to highlight its large and slim interior and provide a flexible space for the driver and passengers.

A high-tech appearance is created by the 12.3-inch dual wide displays and floating module. The comfort and enjoyment of the user are improved by ambient lighting. A clear arrangement and more storage space in the central tunnel are provided by moving the column type shift-by-wire from the center console to behind the steering wheel.

The second-row Curve-less Bench Seat enhances the vehicle's urban design appeal for the twenty-first century. With optimal utility, comfort, and convenience, this living area delivers a distinctive experience. The cargo area behind the second row has been maximized.

The brand-new Hyundai Kona will receive more information in the upcoming months.

The first-generation Hyundai Kona was highly recognized by different international award-giving bodies for a number of attributes — exceptional performance, comfort, and safety features. It was also known for its head-turning looks and cozy interior.

In 2019, the Kona was named as the North America Utility Vehicle of the Year for its dynamic driving capabilities, modern safety features, and striking design.

The Kona came in 10 youthful color variants that made it more exciting, especially to new drivers and yuppies. The Kona featured a separated headlight design with projector-type headlights, front fog lamps, and daytime running lights that improve illumination and visibility on the road.

On the inside, the Kona got a floating-type radio display that provides maximum visibility and better driver concentration. To enhance driving comfort, the front seats came with slide and recline function. The vehicle was also equipped with 60:40 split back folding rear seats to provide additional luggage space when needed.

The Kona’s audio system came with Aux, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, mated with four speakers and two tweeters for an even more enhanced in-cabin music streaming experience. Audio and Bluetooth controls on the steering wheel allowed for better music control.

Other notable cabin features include a manual air-conditioning system, sunglass holder, cup holders, bottle holder, and accessory power outlet.

Under the Kona’s hood is a Euro 4-compliant 2.0-liter NU MPI Atkinson gasoline engine that generates a maximum power output of 149ps at 6,200rpm and maximum torque of 18.3kg-m at 4,500rpm. The SUV’s engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Photos from Hyundai

Also read: Hyundai Ioniq lineup receives 3 new accolades from Autobest, Esquire