2024 Hyundai Kona SUV offers more room, new features, 260-mile EV range
The 2024 Hyundai Kona SUV gets bigger and roomier as the Korean automaker introduces a new version of its popular subcompact SUV. Gasoline-powered versions of the 2024 Kona go on sale this summer, followed by the EV in the fall.
The new Kona is 5.9 inches longer than the current model, on a wheelbase that grew 2.3 inches. It’s an inch wider, 71.9 inches. Those changes move the Kona from the small end of its segment closer to the heart, competing with vehicles like the Chevrolet Trax and Honda HR-V.
While the Kona got bigger, the electric model’s range on battery power is almost unchanged, 260 miles versus 258 for the 2023, in spite of using essentially the same size lithium-ion battery. A model with a smaller battery will have a range of about 197 miles.
Hyundai developed the new Kona with the EV in mind first, then added the gasoline powertrains, a process that should make the EV more efficient and capable than when the electric drivetrain is added to an existing platform.
Hyundai unveiled the 2024 Kona at the New York auto show.
2024 Hyundai Kona EV key features
12.3-inch touch screen
Over-the-air update capability
400-volt DC fast charging capability
Smartphone or watch can serve as a key
Bose audio
EV highlights
Hyundai says the Kona will charge from 10% to 80% — a typical measure of fast-charging speed — in 10 minutes at a DC fast charger delivering 400 volts, or about 175 kW. Hyundia didn’t reveal charging time at the 240v home units most EV owners use.
A single electric motor drives the front wheels. The long-range version has a 64.8 kWh battery, 201 hp and 188 pound-feet of torque. Models with the shorter range 48.6 kWh battery generate 133 hp and the same torque output.
The EV can also power off-board 120-volt devices. The driver can select varying levels of regenerative braking, including the “one-pedal” mode that brings the EV to a complete stop.
A stubby new shifter stalk on the steering column creates more usable space in the center console. As in Hyundai’s new Ioniq 6 EV sedan, photos show four LED lights in the steering wheel instead of the expected Hyundai logo.
Two gasoline models
Hyundai will also offer two internal combustion engines in the new Kona. The base model comes with a 2.0L engine producing 147 hp and 132 pound-feet of torque. It’s linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission.
The more expensive Kona N-Line and Limited models get a turbocharged 1.6L engine that produces 197 hp and 195 pound-feet of torque. The 1.6L engine is linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Gasoline-powered Konas will be available with either front- or all-wheel drive.
Contact Mark Phelan: 313-222-6731 or mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan. Read more on autos and sign up for our autos newsletter. Become a subscriber.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: 2024 Hyundai Kona gets bigger, adds features
