Hyundai launches "rookie" Kona with various outstanding features

PSNews -Hyundai Motor Corporation on June 13 in Seoul officially introduced Kona – the newest model in the SUV segment in Korea.
Hyundai Kona – the newest model in the SUV segment.
Hyundai Kona – the newest model in the SUV segment.

Kona will serve as an additional option, along with Tucson, Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport models, for customers in the high popular SUV segment. At the worldwide event to launch this B class model, Hyundai has realized its earlier promise of a better design of the B class model by bringing customers a sophisticated and spacious SUV.

The 'headlamp' enhances Kona's hi-tech look while the daytime running lamps position indicator and the turn signals are positioned in a in a narrow slash and separately from the LED headlamps.

The 'headlamp' enhances Kona's hi-tech look while the daytime running lamps position indicator and the turn signals are positioned in a in a narrow slash and separately from the LED headlamps.
The 'headlamp' enhances Kona's hi-tech look while the daytime running lamps position indicator and the turn signals are positioned in a in a narrow slash and separately from the LED headlamps.

In front of the Kona model is the sturdy steel cover, which allows the B class SUV model to run under extreme conditions. The new Hyundai SUV model also adopts the Hyundai family's new identity: Preserving the beauty of a cascading waterfall, the Kona’s front grille takes its design cues from the harmony of flowing water in nature.

The visual relationship among the 'headlamps, daytime running lamps and the front grille distinguishes it from others of the B-SUV segment. This makes the car recognizable day or night.

The Kona model’s rear light cluster is arranged nicely by Hyundai designers. Brake lights, turn signals and rearlights are individually sealed and enclosed with protective casing, starting from column C. Along with the different look, Hyundai adds some cheerful colors, bringing the customer satisfaction and comfort and helping them show off their own personality and style.

The Kona model’s rear light cluster.
The Kona model’s rear light cluster.

The Kona model offers spacious interior space by floor optimization. The new B class SUV includes a 4WD powertrain and exhaust system. Hyundai has laid the rear suspension neatly and optimally, so despite the lower ceilings and seats, the space inside the Kona model is still the top-of-the-line segment.

Hyundai designers also maximized the model’s luggage space, meeting the needs of customers for an active life. The fully foldable rear seat allows customers to easily put a bike or a golf bag in.

The Kona features a bunch of information and entertainment tech, which you would expect. Infotainment systems include standard Android Auto and Apple Car Playcompatibility with a 5,7 or 8 inches screen, and navigation and HD Radio are available, as are 4G telematics.Console-based wireless charging is also available while another unexpected-for-the-class feature is an available head-up display.

Hyundai Kona's interior.
Hyundai Kona's interior.

The new Kona has gasoline and diesel engine options. The base engine is a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that runs on the Atkinson cycle to maximize fuel economy. It develops 132 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm and is mated to a conventional six-speed automatic transmission. Hyundai claims a decidedly relaxed 0-to-100km/h time of 10 seconds and a top speed of 194km/h.

The second engine option is a Hyundai's well-known 1.6-liter Gamma 1.6T-GDI. The engine is rated at 177hp and 265Nm of torque, with peak twist coming on between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. The smaller, but more power-dense engine moves the Kona to 100km/h in a claimed 7.7 seconds and a top speed of 194km/h.

European customers may have the option of a 1.0L three-cylinder engine, supercharged T-GDI and a conventional six-speed manual transmission. The engine is rated at 120hp, 265Nm of torque.  The engine can move the car from 0 to 100 km/h in 12 seconds, top speed at 181 km/h. In addition, in some markets, Hyundai may add its other 1.6L diesel engine.

The new Kona has gasoline and diesel engine options.
The new Kona has gasoline and diesel engine options.

The Hyundai Kona is 4165mm long and 1800mm wide, with a height 1550mm with a base shaft of 2,600 mm. Hyundai Kona has been developing a new platform with a body structure made of toughened steel, ensuring maximum safety for people sitting inside the cabin.

In particular, Kona model also have many active safety features such as the Available Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist,lane-keeping assist and a driver-attention warning system. A blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert are also available.

The Hyundai Kona will officially be sold in Korea by the end of June.

It is known that Kona is named after a place on the island of Hawaii. Kona is known for being a popular destination for thrilling games.

Hyundai Kona Photos:

Vice Chairman of the Hyundai Motor Company introducing the Kona model.
Vice Chairman of the Hyundai Motor Company introducing the Kona model.
By Phung Nguyen

Other News

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

Private economic sector poised for breakthrough growth

More than a year after the Politburo's Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW on private sector development came into effect, expectations now extend beyond increasing the number of enterprises. The goal is to build a stronger business community with greater resilience, larger ambitions and the capacity to compete in global supply chains.

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam remains ASEAN growth leader in 2026 despite global headwinds: WB

Vietnam is expected to remain one of ASEAN’s fastest-growing economies in 2026, supported by resilient exports, strong investment inflows and an ambitious reform agenda, despite mounting global uncertainties, according to the World Bank’s latest Vietnam Economic Update released on May 15.

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Ministry establishes monitoring framework for carbon market

Under a new circular, the exchange of greenhouse gas emission quotas and carbon credits is conducted on the domestic carbon credit exchange through the carbon trading system, which is interconnected with the national registration system.

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

Biofuel ready for nationwide rollout

For biofuels, particularly E10, to develop successfully, stronger and more coordinated policies are needed, especially pricing mechanisms capable of creating a sufficiently attractive gap between E10 and mineral-based petrol, an expert has said.

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

Vietnamese farm produce promoted at African investment, trade forum

The 12th Africa Forum for Investment & Commerce (AFIC 12) opened in Algiers, the capital of Algeria, on May 9, drawing around 2,000 participants, including officials, economists, businesses, financial and development organizagtions from 43 African countries and international partners, including Vietnam.

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

Int'l medical, pharmaceutical expo opens in Hanoi

The exhibition, which runs until May 9 at the Hanoi International Centre for Exhibition, showcases advanced products and technologies across a range of fields, including pharmaceuticals, drug manufacturing machinery and equipment, medical devices, hospital and clinic services and dental equipment.

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Mega projects to transform Ho Chi Minh City urban landscape

Leading the charge in this massive building spree is the new central city square in the core of the Thu Thiem new urban area. Spanning more than 20 ha, it’s the crown jewel of the Central Square and new administrative center complex.

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

Vietnam establishes itself as one of region’s most dynamic manufacturing and supply bases

The country’s stable political and economic environment provides a critical foundation for long-term sourcing strategies. At the same time, Vietnam has demonstrated a strong ability to scale up manufacturing, supported by a continuously expanding industrial base capable of meeting both high-volume demand and increasingly complex technical and quality requirements.

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

Vietnamese pomelos gain broader access to Australian market

The update by Australia’s Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry to its Biosecurity Import Conditions system (BICON) on April 10, officially setting out import conditions for Vietnamese pomelos, is regarded as a major milestone in market access efforts.

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

Vietnam's industry spearheads transition to circular economy

The circular economy is no longer just a policy choice. It has become an inevitable trend for delivering sustainable and green growth, sharpening competitiveness at home and abroad, and meeting Vietnam’s net-zero emissions target by 2050. It is now a prerequisite to sustain long-term economic expansion, particularly in industrial production and supporting industries.

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Nearly 100 tonnes of Vietnamese fruits, vegetables airlifted to UAE

Vietnamese fresh produce and processed foods are increasingly recognised for their quality, with items such as cashew nuts, coffee and spices gaining popularity among Middle East consumers. In 2025, Vietnam’s farm produce exports to the UAE exceeded 445 million USD, up nearly 24% year-on-year.