The 2023 Hyundai Kona is an upcoming small SUV with a big personality. This model looks compact, attractive, and it will stand out among a wide range of rivals. If you didn’t know, the Kona is in the same class with the Honda HR-V, Nissan Kicks, Toyota C-HR, Kia Seltos, Subaru Crosstrek, and Kia Soul.
However, considering changes for the 2023 model will be minimal, the Kona will include a grille that’s wider and updated wheel designs. It will also introduce some upgrades inside, resulting in more comfort. There is a choice of two engines, on which base one is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinde, while optional is a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, powering Limited and sporty N Line trims.
2023 Hyundai Kona Changes
The 2023 Hyundai Kona will not bring any significant change. This small SUV will remain compact with the same handsome body styling. We like its stretched hood and bold new cladding. In general, compared to its predecessor, the new one looks more polished.
The grille looks wider, and there’s a Hyundai logo now mounted above the grille. Interestingly, headlights are the same, and they are separated from the daytime running lights. On the back, everything remains the same, and the Kona comes with the same taillights and bumper. As far as we know, the manufacturer will also update wheel designs.
What’s New?
Like the outgoing model, the new 2023 Hyundai Kona will offer comfort for five occupants. According to the manufacturer, this small SUV has rear cargo volume of 19.2 cubic feet. However, the highlight is definitively a big 10.25-inch touchscreen that “floats” atop the center stack. This display is only available with the Kona Limited as the ambient interior lighting, rear USB ports, and an 8-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.
The SE model is the base one and is equipped with a cloth interior, an 8.0-inch audio touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, cruise control, a tilt/telescope steering wheel, and a forward-collision warning system with automatic emergency braking.
2023 Hyundai Kona Engine Specs
As we mentioned, the forthcoming 2023 Hyundai Kona will come with a choice of two engines. The standard model will use a proven 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that produces 147-horsepower. This engine also comes with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and with a choice of front or all-wheel-drive.
As optional, the manufacturer offers a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that makes 195-horsepower powering the Limited and sporty N Line trims. Like the base one, this model is also available in front or all-wheel-drive configurations. However, unlike the first one, this engine is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Release Date, Price
The new redesigned 2023 Hyundai Kona will reportedly arrive next year, probably in the second half of the year. As mentioned, the changes for the 2023 model will be minimal, and the new model will mainly remain the same, at least outside. Inside, it will receive some upgrades that will make the cabin more comfortable.
According to the latest reports, we can expect some slight price jump compared to the current model that starts at approximately $22,000 for the base SE trim. The current performance-oriented N Line is $27,000, while the top-of-the-line Limited is around $30,000.