The second-generation 2024 Hyundai Kona made its debut this year, showcasing a futuristic design and a larger footprint, all while offering a versatile menu that includes gasoline, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Hyundai Australia entrusted us with the keys to the naturally aspirated ICE-powered version, which we’ll be putting to the test all around Melbourne and beyond for the next couple of weeks
It may not appear that way from the outside, but our Kona is the base-spec trim, despite its generous equipment. Beneath the hood rests a non-electrified and non-turbocharged 2.0-liter Smartstream MPi gasoline (petrol) engine, producing 147 hp (110 kW / 150 PS) and 132 lb-ft (179 Nm) of torque.
Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a CVT gearbox, which is the sole option for the naturally aspirated engine in Australia (the US-spec Kona is also available in an AWD variant).
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Our Kona sports the Mirage Grey paint, complemented by the standard 18-inch alloy wheels. The full LED bars in the signature split headlights and taillights instantly identify it as the new generation, while the angular surfacing on the profile gives it a resemblance to a baby Tucson. As we move up the trim ladder, the Kona Premium stands out with its aluminum-style skid plates, while the sportier Kona N Line boasts a fully redesigned body kit, ditching the unpainted plastic cladding and sporting even larger 19-inch wheels.
Inside, the entry-level Kona comes equipped with a standard, full-size 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen combined with neatly integrated gauges, and a 4.2-inch trip computer. It doesn’t look half bad, but the higher trims offer access to an even cooler 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, along with leather upholstery instead of cloth.
The 2024 Hyundai Kona 2.0 CVT begins at AU$32,000 (US$21,066) before on-road costs in Australia. To provide a comparison, the equivalent US-spec 2024 Hyundai Kona SE with the same engine and gearbox configuration has a starting MSRP of US$24,100 excluding destination charges.
So, now that we’ve covered the basics, what would you like to know about the all-new Hyundai Kona? Feel free to ask your questions in the comments section below.
