The week before Christmas is usually slow, but Hyundai has thrown a wrench into that tradition by unveiling the 2024 Kona.
Set to be a radical improvement over its predecessor, the “upscaled model” features a bold new design which is ruggedly futuristic and far more premium looking.
While each variant has a slightly different appearance, all Konas have a curved nose with a slender “Seamless Horizon Lamp” that spans nearly the entire width of the vehicle. The electric variant builds on this with a pixelated version of the light and it’s joined by pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheels as well as a blocked off intake with pixel graphics.
The ICE and hybrid versions have a more rugged appearance as they sport plastic body cladding, a faux skid plate, and a more aggressive front bumper with triangular intakes that appear to be blocked off. The N Line, on the other hand, has unique front and rear bumpers, silver side skirts, and distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels. The model can also be equipped with black mirrors and a black roof.
Hyundai said that unlike most vehicles, they started designing the Kona EV first and then followed up with the ICE, hybrid, and N Line variants. The company said this “unconventional approach allowed Hyundai to bring tech-centric design thinking to all Kona variants.”
Detailed specifications will be released in the coming months, but Hyundai said the crossover is 5.9 inches (150 mm) longer than its predecessor as the model now measures 171.5 inches (4,355 mm) long. An extra 2.4 inches (60 mm) is found between the wheels, while the Kona is also 1 inch (25 mm) wider than before. This should create a more accommodating cabin with extra rear seat legroom.
Speaking of the interior, the cabin gets a significant upgrade as it receives an Ioniq 5-inspired makeover. As you can see, the crossover sports a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that flows into a matching 12.3-inch infotainment system.
Elsewhere, there’s a ‘floating’ dashboard and a curved center stack with an assortment of physical controls. The shifter has also been relocated as it now resides on the steering column to provide an “uncluttered layout and additional space for belongings in the central tunnel.”
Rear seat passengers haven’t been forgotten as there’s a “curve-less” bench seat that “reinforces Kona’s 21st century urban design aesthetic.” That’s a bit vague, but Hyundai said the second-row will offer a “unique experience with maximum usability, comfort and convenience.” The company went on to say cargo space has also been “maximized.”
Performance specifications will be released at a later date, but powertrain options are expected to echo the Kia Niro. As a result, we can expect a hybridized 1.6-liter four-cylinder with a combined output of 139 hp (104 kW / 141 PS) and 195 lb-ft (264 Nm) of torque.
The Kona EV could have a 64.8 kWh battery pack that powers a 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) electric motor. This setup may give the crossover a range of around 253 miles (407 km).
