Hyundai’s well-known subcompact crossover has just been redesigned for the 2022 model year. That’s why we are pretty sure that the 2023 Hyundai Kona will come without more important updates. Simply, the recent overhaul has brought a lot of novelties, so the new model feels better in every aspect. It is built better and offers a better driving experience. Furthermore, there are some new powertrain options, which make the new Kona a much better product compared to the previous generation.
Of course, minor updates are always possible. We could see certain novelties regarding the standard and available equipment, or maybe new color options. However, the overall layout will remain the same. The 2023 Hyundai Kona will continue to deliver a nice mix of high-quality interior, capable engine options and a long list of standard equipment. On the other hand, a small cargo area will remain one of the biggest drawbacks.
Since there are no significant changes to come, we expect that the launch date will be scheduled for the last quarter of the year.
2023 Hyundai Kona Design
As we are talking about the second production year, it’s pretty much a certain thing that no bigger changes are about to come. The recent redesign has brought a lot of great things, improvements in various aspects. Of course, there is the new styling, which makes this crossover look sportier and more aggressive. Still, we believe that the bigger improvement came in terms of ride quality. The new generation feels far more engaging and it’s definitely more fun to drive. At the same time, the ride isn’t all that firm, as some would probably expect.
So, the best 2023 Hyundai Kona could bring are minor updates, such as new color options. An optional appearance package is another thing that comes to mind.
Interior
The new cabin looks fresh and modern. More importantly, it looks more mature compared to the previous generation. The dashboard looks surprisingly elegant, while new tech features make the cabin look even better. Of course, there are some hard plastics here and there, but the overall build quality and materials are at a pretty high level. Considering all this, we presume that the 2023 Hyundai Kona interior won’t feature bigger changes.
When it comes to the passenger space, we particularly like the front seats. They are massive and supportive, with plenty of space for taller passengers. Also, there is a lot of adjustability options, so finding the perfect driving position is a pretty easy task. On the other hand, things aren’t all that great in the second row of seats. They are typically tight for this segment of cars, so taller passengers probably won’t feel comfortable. Another complaint goes to the cargo area, which offers around 19 cubic feet behind the second row and 46 cubic feet of the total cargo space. Most rivals offer more.
Features
Novelties in this aspect are always possible. Still, we are pretty sure that most of the things will remain the same as in the current model. So, all models should come standard with goodies like remote keyless entry, an 8-inch touch screen, a six-speaker stereo, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and two USB ports. The list of optional features should include upgrades like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.25-inch touch screen, satellite radio, HD Radio, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system, navigation, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, an additional USB port, proximity keyless entry and more.
The same thing is with safety features. So, all models should come standard with goodies like a rearview camera, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane following assist, rear occupant alert etc. Also, count on options like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, rear parking sensors, safe exit warning, high-beam assist etc.
2023 Hyundai Kona Engines
This aspect definitely won’t bring any change. The base 2023 Hyundai Kona will continue with a familiar 2.0-liter inline-four, which puts out around 147 horsepower and comes coupled with a CVT. Of course, it’s not the sportiest choice but this version could be a pretty good daily commuter, especially if we consider the average fuel economy of 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
The first upgrade comes in the form of a 1.6-liter turbo-four, which puts out 195 horsepower. Of course, driving dynamics are much better, while a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is another significant upgrade. On the other hand, this version is slightly thirstier and you may count on about 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Finally, there is the Kona N, with a 2.0-liter turbo-four, which puts out 280 horsepower. Also, this engine comes coupled with 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.
2023 Hyundai Kona Release Date and Price
Since no bigger changes are about to come, we presume that the 2023 Hyundai Kona will hit the market sometime late in the year, with a starting price of around 22.000 dollars. Models like Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30 and Subaru Crosstrek are some of the key competitors.