The 2024 Hyundai Kona lineup, from the base SE and SEL trims to the sportier N-Line and Limited, now boasts a 2.3-inch wheelbase increase, improving both its style and interior space. Full-width lighting at the front and rear gives the Kona a modern, futuristic look, with the front light bar serving as a running lamp. Inside, our Limited test car featured a sleek gray interior, enhancing the overall upscale feel.
Angular fender flares and sharp trim pieces give the Kona a bold, contemporary appearance. Onlookers even mistook the Kona for an electric model, showing Hyundai’s successful redesign. Inside, the added wheelbase provides more comfort, with rear legroom growing by 3.1 inches, and cargo space expanding to 25.5 cubic feet, making it more practical for everyday use.
PERFORMANCE
For the 2024 Hyundai Kona, a variety of powertrains are available. The base SE and SEL trims come with a 147-hp, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the sportier N-Line and Limited models upgrade to a 1.6-liter turbo-4 producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Kona Electric offers power outputs from 133 to 201 horsepower, with front-wheel drive standard, excluding the electric model.
Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Kona Limited’s turbo engine enhances the driving experience, offering more excitement compared to the CVT in lower trims. There’s noticeable turbo lag in Normal mode, with a slight hesitation before power delivery. Switching to Sport mode sharpens throttle response and improves steering, while the suspension is perfectly tuned for everyday comfort and agility.
Up front, all Kona variants use MacPherson struts and coil springs, while only AWD versions are fitted with an independent multi-link rear suspension. Though I didn’t test the FWD version, its rear torsion beam likely delivers a stiffer ride. Road noise and vibrations are well-mitigated, with minimal interference from the A-pillars, keeping the cabin pleasantly quiet under most conditions.
VERDICT
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Limited AWD we tested has a starting MSRP of $33,150. With the addition of carpeted mats and applicable fees, the final price came to $34,695. This pricing positions the Kona Limited as a solid choice in the compact crossover segment, offering a mix of value and premium features without going overboard in cost.
