Here’s What’s New in the 2022 Hyundai Kona

In recent years, the Hyundai Kona has been one of the most highly rated models in the subcompact SUV category. This well-rounded crossover offers a crisp driving experience, impressive interior quality, generous features, and exceptional value for money. For the 2022 model year, it has received a wide range of updates to further sharpen its competitive edge. Let’s take a closer look at the latest Hyundai Kona. 

Trim Levels and Prices

Image via Flickr by Dennis S. Hurd

One of the most notable changes to the 2022 Hyundai Kona is the addition of the N Line and N models to its lineup. With the phaseout of the SEL Plus and Ultimate trims, the subcompact SUV is now available in five trims. 

The entry-level SE has a base manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $21,150, while the SEL starts at $22,950. If you’re interested in the new N Line, the starting price is $25,700. Opting for the well-appointed Limited will cost a minimum of $28,450. With a starting price tag of $34,200, the performance-oriented N model is the top trim in the lineup.

Exterior

In terms of outward appearance, the 2022 Hyundai Kona is easily distinguishable from the previous year’s model. It features a wider grille, revised lighting elements, and new wheels that make it sleeker and more stylish. An arched roof and a raked rear windshield give it a sporty appeal, while pronounced wheel arches and faux front and rear skid plates add a touch of ruggedness. Also, the crossover is 1.6 inches longer than its predecessor, resulting in a more dynamic and proportional profile. 

Power

The new Hyundai Kona has three engines for you to choose from. If you decide to buy the SE or SEL, you’ll get the standard 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder that carries over from the previous model year. Paired with a continuously variable transmission, this engine is more than adequate for daily driving. 

However, if you like to do some spirited driving on weekends, you’ll be better off getting the N Line or Limited. These models are equipped with a 1.6-liter turbo-four that generates 195 horsepower and pairs with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. They’re considerably quicker off the line compared to the lower trims.

For the ultimate driving excitement, go for the N model, which gets its power from a much more potent 2.0-liter turbo-four. Rated at 280 horsepower, this powerhouse works with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, providing a slick-shifting experience. According to Hyundai, the Kona N can accelerate to 60 mph from a standstill in about five seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph. All models come standard with front-wheel drive, but you can opt for the available all-wheel drive.

Handling

Regardless of which trim you choose, the Hyundai Kona delivers composed handling and a fun driving experience. Its exceptional agility tackles corners and winding roads effortlessly, while its great body control and strong brakes inspire confidence. It also has a well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and dips, resulting in a smooth and comfortable ride. This Hyundai SUV is ideal for commuting in an urban environment as its small size and sharp steering make it a cinch to maneuver in tight situations.  

Fuel Efficiency

The Hyundai Kona delivers the best fuel economy when it’s equipped with the standard engine. This unit is rated at 30/35 mpg (city/highway), which is outstanding for a subcompact crossover. Getting an all-wheel drive model causes the rating to drop slightly to 28/33 mpg. Surprisingly, the 1.6-liter turbo-four is almost as efficient as the base engine. It returns 29/35 mpg with front-wheel drive and 27/32 mpg with all-wheel drive. As a high-performance model, the Kona N is significantly less fuel-efficient than the other trims, earning only 20/27 mpg.

Interior

Image via Flickr by JayUny

Few non-luxury subcompact SUVs have a more refined interior than the 2022 Hyundai Kona. The cabin of this Hyundai model boasts a minimalist and driver-centric design, an abundance of high-quality materials, and excellent ergonomics. The seats are comfortable and supportive, while the steering wheel offers integrated cruise and audio controls. The crossover also comes standard with remote keyless entry. 

Cargo Capacity

If you frequently go on road trips or outdoor adventures, you should be able to fit all your luggage and gear in the back of the Hyundai Kona. This SUV offers 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats upright and 45.8 cubic feet with those seats folded. That’s enough to store up to 14 carry-on suitcases. The cargo floor is low and wide, making it easy to load and unload heavy items. 

Infotainment Features

Another reason to consider the 2022 Hyundai Kona is that it offers a better selection of infotainment features than most of its rivals. Its standard tech features include an 8-inch touch-screen display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, two USB ports, and a six-speaker sound system. For an enhanced experience, you can get optional features such as a 10.25-inch touch-screen display, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, the Blue Link telematics system, navigation, satellite radio, an extra USB port, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. 

Safety Features

The latest Hyundai Kona received the highest possible ratings in crash-safety tests with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Besides providing great protection against crash impact, this crossover is also fitted with a nice array of driver-assistance technologies that can help you prevent accidents in the first place. These features include forward-collision alert, pedestrian monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, lane-following assistance, lane-keeping assistance, a rearview camera, rear-occupant alert, and driver-drowsiness detection. You can also get upgrades such as blind-spot detection, highway-driving assistance, high-beam assistance, rear cross-traffic warning, rear parking sensors, and safe-exit alert.

If you’re thinking of buying the 2022 Hyundai Kona in Ewing or another part of Trenton, New Jersey, you can view it in person at Hyundai of Trenton. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or want to make a test-drive appointment.