![]() ![]() The headliner is cardboard-like, and hard plastic is used extensively - from the door panels and dashboard to the center console. The cabin is very traditional, for one, and it uses relatively basic materials. The InsideĪfter taking in the Kona’s daring exterior styling, the interior may be something of a letdown for shoppers. Looking at front-drive competitors, the Kona’s estimated gas mileage tops the Trax (28 mpg) and C-HR (29 mpg) but trails the automatic-equipped HR-V (31 mpg). Regardless of the engine, front-wheel-drive Konas get an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in combined driving, while all-wheel-drive versions are rated 27 mpg combined. There’s some gas-pedal lag when accelerating from a standstill but selecting Sport mode wakes the Kona up gas-pedal response is notably better, upshifts are delayed and the SUV feels a lot peppier as a result.Īcceleration is acceptable in the city, but the engine doesn’t have much reserve power at highway speeds even though the automatic transmission is quick to kick down, passing power is modest. The 2.0-liter engine revs smoothly and feels well-matched to the standard six-speed automatic transmission. Limited and Ultimate trim levels get a turbo four-cylinder rated at 175 hp. SE and SEL Konas are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 147 horsepower. It has a firm ride, like the C-HR and Ford EcoSport, and it lacks refinement when you hit bumps and ruts. The thing that reminds you of the Kona’s entry-level position in Hyundai’s SUV lineup, however, is its suspension tuning. Combine that with its responsive steering, and the Kona is surprisingly fun to drive. It feels stable in quick corners, with limited body roll. The transmission is quick to react when you need more power, and it shifts smoothly. It’s easy to maneuver in the city and secure at highway speeds. The Kona’s driving experience impresses in many ways. See how the Kona’s specs compare with the Trax, HR-V and C-HR. Our test car was a front-wheel-drive Kona SEL with a $22,405 as-tested price ($980 destination charge included). The Kona at least offers all-wheel drive, making it easier to think of it as an SUV, but its low ride height and overall shape call to mind a more traditional small hatchback. Some entrants, like the C-HR, offer a carlike ride height and skip all-wheel drive (it’s front-drive only). The subcompact SUV class has stretched the definition of sport utility vehicle more than most. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Trax has slightly better ride comfort, while the Honda HR-V is more versatile. Versus the competition: The Kona’s lower stance mimics the Toyota C-HR’s, and its nimble driving manners are reminiscent of a Fiat 500X. The verdict: The all-new 2018 Hyundai Kona is distinctively styled and feels light and agile, but it’s more a hatchback than a small SUV. ![]()
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