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Hyundai today unveiled its innovative 2024 Kona SUV to U.S. media in Baltimore, Maryland. The all-new Kona is positioned as an upscaled multiplayer in the small SUV segment, led by an all-electric variant that offers advanced safety, convenience, and outstanding electric range of 260 miles based on preliminary Hyundai internal estimates. The second-generation Kona offers one of the most comprehensive product packages in the small SUV segment, including the widest range of powertrains. Customers can choose from electric and internal combustion powertrains, including a sporty N Line version. The all-new 2024 Kona is on sale now at U.S. dealers and the Kona Electric will be available late fall.
In an unconventional move, Hyundai developed the new Kona platform with an electrified powertrain first, in line with the company’s accelerated electrification strategy announcement that will bring 11 new Hyundai EVs to market globally by 2030.
“The all-new Kona and Kona Electric continue to build upon our extremely successful first-generation model, with outstanding efficiency, innovative technologies, distinctive styling, and comprehensive safety features,” said José Muñoz, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “The new Kona Electric represents the next step forward in eco-friendly mobility solutions, a key model in Hyundai’s rapid transition to clean mobility and progress for humanity.”
With its rugged, dynamic design and upscaled dimensions, the all-new Kona retains its iconic character, supporting active lifestyles for customers of all ages, while offering innovative technologies and convenience features that provide a safe, connected, and comfortable experience. Among the upgrades are dual, 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, Digital Key 2 Touch, Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates and Hyundai’s next-generation infotainment system.
Kona Electric, equipped with the 64.8-kWh battery, is estimated to deliver up to 260 miles of range based on Hyundai’s preliminary internal testing (ii). This battery system is internally estimated to recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 43 minutes with available 400V fast-charging capability(iii). The standard battery is estimated to provide approximately 197 miles of range based on preliminary internal tests (iv).
The all-new model has unique proportions providing larger dimensions and interior volume. The Kona internal combustion version length is now 171.3 in., 5.7 in. longer, with a wheelbase of 104.7 in., a 2.3 in. increase, and its overall width is 71.9 in., a full inch wider than its predecessor.
EV-driven Exterior Design
For the 2024 Kona, Hyundai transitioned from a conventional ICE-to-EV platform development process and followed an EV-to-ICE development process, resulting in a futuristic, EV-centric exterior that accentuates the Kona’s unique look with an unexpected combination of sleek and rugged design.
With a drag coefficient of just 0.27, the new Kona Electric excels at aerodynamic performance without sacrificing style. Between the aerodynamic nose and rear liftgate, sculpted wheel arch armor and parametric surfaces add character to pure volume, with dynamic chrome lines connecting the belt line to the rear spoiler and integrated center high-mounted stop lamp. On the Electric variant, a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp and Pixel graphics add a unique flourish. In addition, available vivid exterior colors further emphasize Kona’s iconic design, taking inspiration from the diverse lifestyles of a broad spectrum of customers.
Roomier and More Versatile Interior
Based on the model’s upscaled dimensions and EV-derived universal architecture, Hyundai designed a larger interior ‘living space’ to embrace a wider range of customer lifestyles. The driver-centric front row is accentuated by a floating horizontal C-Pad with integrated, dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens that affirm Kona’s high-tech character.
As part of Kona’s new ergonomic layout, the shift-by-wire gear selector has been relocated from the center console to a stalk behind the steering wheel, allowing more storage in the open console area. The layout emphasizes Kona’s larger, wider interior, providing a versatile and comfortable space for driver and passengers. This impression is further reinforced by the relocation of driver controls around the steering wheel, allowing a multi-use center console storage area with a rotational cupholder design. Ambient interior lighting options are also available that correspond to drive modes, acceleration, or to suit the mood of the driver. The front seats are 30 percent slimmer to maximize rear passenger legroom and the second row Curveless Bench Seat also enhances available space. Even more, a two-stage latching system allows rear seat reclining.
The fully foldable second-row seat and rear compartment provide 25.5 cubic feet of rear cargo volume with rear seatbacks up and 63.7 cubic feet with seatbacks folded down, along with improved loading convenience. Loading anything from luggage to shopping bags is made easier than ever with the available Smart Power Tailgate that enhances cargo space access.
EV-Specific Features
In addition to the Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp and Pixel graphics, Kona Electric offers even more features for an improved customer experience. Available battery preconditioning ensures secure charging and power performance in colder ambient temperatures. A new charging port door lamp helps ensure visibility at night.
Kona Electric also comes with distinctive elements, including forward “frunk” storage, active grille shutters, exterior Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, i-PEDAL driving mode, and Smart Regenerative System that adjusts regeneration according to real-time traffic conditions.
With a bi-directional onboard charger, the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) (vi) function can power devices or charge electrical equipment, such as electric bicycles, scooters, camping equipment, or even power necessities during a power outage. From the front charging port, devices and appliances can be plugged in using an available V2L adapter to use battery power when the car is parked.
The new i-PEDAL enables a one-pedal driving mode that allows drivers to accelerate, decelerate and stop using only the accelerator pedal when desired. The Smart Regenerative System automatically adjusts the levels of regenerative braking based on real-time data from forward traffic flow, optimizing regenerative braking system efficiency.
Refined and Efficient Internal Combustion Powertrains
Kona powertrain offerings have top efficiency levels as a key target. Kona offers a choice of two gasoline powertrains. A 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Atkinson engine produces an estimated 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with a Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) for maximum efficiency (vii). The Atkinson cycle design maximizes the effective cylinder expansion ratio (compression stroke vs. power stroke) for greater efficiency.
N Line and Limited trims offer a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine generating an estimated 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm (vii) and 195 lb.-ft. of torque from 1,700-4,500 rpm for confident acceleration in city driving. Peak torque delivery starts at only 1,700 rpm and holds through 4,500 rpm, for low-RPM responsiveness in everyday driving conditions. The Kona 1.6L turbo engine couples to an eight-speed automatic transmission for outstanding efficiency with smooth, seamless shifting and brisk acceleration.
