2023 Hyundai Kona N

Price Range: $34,950 ^{Price range reflects Base MSRP for various trim levels, not including options or fees.}

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The Kona is an appealing pick among subcompact SUVs thanks to a strong optional turbocharged engine, sharp handling, and lots of features for the money. Hyundai's powertrain updates have further improved the driving experience, though it still has some drivability issues. A few shortcomings keep it from being an easy winner, such as a smaller-than-average cargo capacity and a plasticky cabin.

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23 mpg

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$31,876

9 Colors
4 Trims

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2023 Hyundai Kona Review

byRyan ZumMallen^{Contributor
Ryan ZumMallen has worked in the automotive industry since 2012. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Ryan has also contributed to Road & Track, Autoweek, Trucks.com and more. In 2019, Ryan published his first book, Slow Car Fast, on the millennial generation and its unique take on modern car culture.}

Pros

Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration
Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive
Lots of features for your money
Exciting performance from the Kona N

Cons

Weak base engine
Interior is trimmed with a lot of hard plastic panels

What's new

Blind-spot intervention and rear cross-traffic intervention made standard
Heated mirrors now come standard
Kona N Line gets many features from previous Tech package as standard
Part of the first Kona generation introduced for 2018

Overview

As a subcompact SUV with a reasonable price, the Kona is one of our favorite little runabouts. It offers a lot of features for the money, a city-friendly footprint, and quick acceleration from two optional powertrains. In 2022 the Kona was refreshed with new exterior styling, added power for the optional turbocharged engine, and a new sporty N model. The changes were a big step forward for the Kona, which is probably why the updates for 2023 are minimal.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio

$240/mo

$184/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

These are some small sins, such as an underpowered base engine and lots of hard plastic throughout the interior, but they're easily forgiven in the grand scheme. Though the Kona is one of the better extra-small SUVs around, you might also want to look at the Volkswagen Taos, Chevy Trailblazer, Mazda CX-30 and Buick Encore GX. These models are a bit newer and can offer a few advantages over the Kona.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Our Verdict^{The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.}

Good

7.9

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

Rated for you by America's best test team.

Performance

8.0/10

How does the Kona drive? The Kona is a sporty subcompact SUV with snappy acceleration and playful handling. In Edmunds' testing of a Kona with the turbocharged engine, we measured 0-60 mph in just 7.2 seconds, very quick time for this class of car. Hyundai has also made incremental improvements over the years to the dual-clutch automatic transmission that's paired with the turbocharged engine. It's simply one of the better transmissions in the class. But there is the occasional hesitation when pulling away from a stop.

Around turns, the Kona is surprisingly composed and grippy. The steering doesn't give you much feel for the road, but on the whole this is an enjoyable little SUV to drive. The brakes bring the Kona to stop smoothly in town and provide average emergency-braking power.

Comfort

7.5/10

How comfortable is the Kona? The Kona rides a bit stiffer than competitors, and that makes this little Hyundai feel a bit busy over rough pavement. But overall it's a worthwhile trade-off to get the car's tight handling. Road noise is a bit intrusive, but that's not uncommon for the class. Overall, the Kona is pretty quiet.

The Kona's front seats are supportive and have plenty of adjustability, but they lack side bolsters for extra comfort. The back seats are flat and broad but not too upright. The climate control is a simple two-knob system that doesn't require the touchscreen to operate. The seat heaters in our test vehicle worked promptly on cold mornings.

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2023 Hyundai Kona N pricing

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2024 Hyundai KONA
$24,250Starting MSRP
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Interior

8.0/10

How’s the interior? It's hard to ignore the Kona's plasticky feel, but overall the interior is very easy to live with. The buttons are grouped logically and clearly labeled, and Hyundai's infotainment interface has an intuitive menu structure. The relatively narrow roof pillars allow for good forward and side visibility. The backup camera's wide, clear picture fills in the gaps when you're reversing.

There is a suitable amount of space for the driver and front passenger. Rear headroom is decent for the class — more than enough for average-size adults — but legroom is tight, especially behind a tall driver. Fortunately, there is generous space under the front seats for the rear passengers' toes and feet. The relatively short doors can be opened wide even in tighter parking spaces, making for good access.

Technology

8.5/10

How’s the tech? The Kona is a feature-rich vehicle, with a lot of standard and available technology that all works well. We also like the available Harman Kardon stereo system that provides plenty of bass response and good sound quality across a lot of musical genres. The navigation system gets the job done with an easy-to-read display and useful turn-by-turn prompts. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration is standard. Wireless charging is available.

The Kona's driver assist systems are consistently accurate, not triggering false alarms in our time with the vehicle. We were especially impressed with the optional adaptive cruise control and semi-automated drive mode (Hyundai calls it Highway Driving Assist). It's better at keeping the Kona centered in its lane than many rival systems in SUVs costing twice as much.

Storage

7.0/10

How’s the storage? The Kona really only falters in terms of utility when compared directly to class leaders. Thanks to a low liftover height and a wide load floor, the trunk is easy to use. But compared to similar SUVs such as the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Volkswagen Taos, the Kona comes up short on maximum cargo space.

You'll find lots of water bottle-size pockets in all four doors and a diminutive cellphone tray up front as well as a small center console and glovebox. So while small-item storage is decent, other small SUVs do it better. The car seat anchor points are clearly marked and close to the surface, but they're tucked between firm cushions.

Fuel Economy

7.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The 1.6-liter Kona with all-wheel drive, which is what we tested, gets an EPA-estimated 29 mpg in combined driving. That's roughly on par with AWD-equipped competitors, but this engine provides more power than most. On our 115-mile evaluation route, our test Kona averaged a very respectable 31.1 mpg, so drivers should be able to match the EPA estimates in real-world driving. As a bonus, the Kona doesn't require premium gasoline.

Value

8.5/10

Is the Kona a good value? The Kona has a good set of features at an affordable price. Models with the turbocharged engine can get a bit pricey, but you're still getting your money's worth for sure. Everything feels robustly built, but only a few interior surfaces have been treated with soft or padded materials. The alternating surface textures and good fit and finish go a long way toward making the Kona look less bargain-basement, but there's no hiding the neverending plastic. The Mazda CX-30 sets the standard with its upscale interior.

Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty is an industry standout, and the five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is also better than the coverage for the other vehicles in this class. Added value comes in the form of three-year/36,000-mile free maintenance.

Wildcard

7.5/10

No one will ever accuse the Hyundai Kona of being dull. A recent styling refresh has added some much-needed refinement to its appearance, while the available turbocharged engine and engaging handling make the Kona a fun standout in its class. Easy to use, easy to drive and easy to park, the Kona is a solid option if you're looking for a little extra performance without commiting to a larger and more expensive hot hatch. Only an interior full of hard plastics and a smaller-than-average cargo capacity are real demerits of this funky little SUV.

Which Kona does Edmunds recommend?

We suggest going with the N Line. It gets you the more powerful turbocharged engine and includes options from lower trims as standard. It's also got flashier styling and more functionality in the form of a power-adjustable driver's seat.

Hyundai Kona models

The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover with space for up to five passengers. It comes in five trim levels: SE, SEL, N Line, Limited and N. Front-wheel drive comes standard, with all-wheel drive optional on all models except for the Kona N (which sticks with front-wheel drive).

The base SE and SEL models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 lb-ft of torque) matched with a continuously variable transmission, or CVT. N Line and Limited trims come with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder (195 hp, 195 lb-ft) paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Finally, the high-performance Kona N uses a turbo 2.0-liter engine (276 hp with temporary boost to 286 hp, 289 lb-ft) with an eight-speed dual-clutch auto.

SE
The base trim starts with this equipment:

2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 lb-ft)
Continuously variable automatic transmission
Standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
16-inch alloy wheels
Heated mirrors
Height-adjustable driver's seat
8-inch touchscreen
Rear USB port
Six-speaker audio system
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration

Standard safety equipment on every Kona includes:

Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Safe-exit system (can prevent a passenger from opening a door into traffic approaching from behind)

SEL
This is an upgraded trim level with additional standard equipment:

17-inch wheels
Remote engine start
Roof rails
Tinted rear windows
Keyless entry and ignition
Power-adjustable driver's seat

If you're looking to add more features to the SEL, consider this:

Convenience package

Sunroof
Automatic climate control
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Heated front seats
10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation system (removes wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto)
Wireless charging pad

N Line
If you prefer sporty styling, you may enjoy the N Line and this set of features:

Turbocharged 1.6-liter engine (195 hp, 195 lb-ft)
Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Contents of Convenience package
Unique 18-inch wheels
Restyled bumpers and grille
Digital instrument panel
Upgraded cloth upholstery

Limited
This is a more feature-laden version of the SEL trim, with the same turbo engine as the N Line. It comes with:

Convenience package
18-inch wheels
Automatic wipers
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Upgraded interior plastic trim
Leather upholstery
Premium Harman/Kardon sound system
Adaptive cruise control (can also react to traffic signs and set speed)
Rear parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible behind the vehicle when parking)

N
The Kona N is a true performance machine and builds upon the Limited trim with:

Turbocharged 2.0-liter engine (276 hp and 289 lb-ft, can temporarily boost to 286 hp)
Eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
Front-wheel drive only
19-inch wheels with summer performance tires
Upgraded brakes
Variable sport exhaust
Electronic limited-slip differential (helps maximize available traction during hard acceleration)
Aerodynamic body kit
Larger rear spoiler
Selectable driving modes
Upgraded interior plastic trim
Leather upholstery with suede inserts
Sport seats with extra bolstering
Blue interior accents

Hyundai Kona Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.0

32 reviews

5(56%)

4(16%)

3(13%)

2(6%)

1(9%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Budget friendly hot hatch ish.

Daily Driver, 04/24/2023

2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM)

If you love driving but don't want to break the bank. Look no further than the Kona N. It's all that and a bag of gluten free chips.Not for the timid or new drivers. Volkswagen GTI, Gr Corolla, and Civic type R vehicles are overpriced versions that offer similar performance. Stiffer suspension than I'd like but I'll live with it. The Kona N makes driving fun again!

Kona N Rules

Autobob, 02/28/2024

2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM)

We were looking for a fun gas fuel vehicle to purchase did not want an EV and was open to a Hybrid but an ICE was our first choice before they are legislated out. It came down to a Hornet or the Kona N. The N is about $10k option over basic Kona and worth every penny. My wife always tells me how much fun the car is even after doing routine drive errands. It get 30mpg on the highway and …

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2023 Hyundai Kona videos

Top Subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022 | Extra-Small & Easy to Drive – What's Not to Like?

NOTE: This video is about the 2021 Hyundai Kona, but since the 2023 Hyundai Kona is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.

Subcompact SUVs have been gaining in popularity over the last few years. For people who don't need or want the space of a midsize SUV or for those who just want to save a few bucks, a subcompact SUV is a smart and economical choice. These extra-small SUVs maintain that elevated ride…

Top Subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022 | Extra-Small & Easy to Dr...

The Best SUVs for 2020 & 2021 — The Top-Rated Small, Midsize...

2023 Hyundai Kona Features Specs

Type:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$34,950
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	23 MPG
Cost to Drive	$240/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	19.2 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	front wheel drive
Warranty	5 years / 60,000 miles

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Hyundai Kona vs. Volkswagen Taos

The Taos is a newcomer, having debuted in 2022, and it became a fast favorite. The interior feels more premium than the Kona's, and it returns excellent fuel economy. We do find the Taos drives less than smoothly, and there's no sporty version like the Kona N. Still, the Taos is a strong choice.

Compare Hyundai Kona & Volkswagen Taos features

Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-30

While the Kona has a dedicated performance version, the Mazda CX-30 boasts athletic capabilities across all of its trim levels. It's also more comfortable than the Kona on the road and has sleek styling. Fuel economy isn't great, but the CX-30 is a bundle of fun and all-wheel drive is standard. Read Edmunds' long-term road test of the Mazda CX-30.

Compare Hyundai Kona & Mazda CX-30 features

Hyundai Kona vs. Subaru Crosstrek

The Kona and Crosstrek have a lot in common, including our recommendation to select the more powerful engine for a more rewarding driving experience. Advantages for the Crosstrek include its rugged credentials, including standard all-wheel drive and an elevated ground clearance. The Crosstrek also has an edge on the Kona in both storage space and fuel economy, though the Kona delivers more features for the money.

Compare Hyundai Kona & Subaru Crosstrek features

Build Your 2024 Hyundai KONA

At a Glance:

9 Colors
4 Trims
$24,250starting MSRP

Build & PriceHyundaiusa.com

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Kona safety features:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Warns if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
Driver Attention Warning: Uses sensors to determine if the driver is becoming fatigued, then triggers an alert with a suggestion to stop for a rest.
Blind-Spot Collision Warning: Alerts the driver if another vehicle is lurking in or approaching the blind spot. If the turn signal is activated in that direction, a warning is triggered

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test	Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original	Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated	Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original	Good
Side Impact Test – Updated	Not Tested
Roof Strength Test	Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint	Good

FAQ

Is the Hyundai Kona a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2023 Kona both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.9 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Kona has 19.2 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Hyundai Kona. Learn more

What's new in the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2023 Hyundai Kona:

Blind-spot intervention and rear cross-traffic intervention made standard
Heated mirrors now come standard
Kona N Line gets many features from previous Tech package as standard
Part of the first Kona generation introduced for 2018

Learn more

Is the Hyundai Kona reliable?

To determine whether the Hyundai Kona is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Kona. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Kona's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2023 Hyundai Kona a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2023 Hyundai Kona is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2023 Kona and gave it a 7.9 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2023 Kona is a good car for you. Learn more

How much should I pay for a 2023 Hyundai Kona?

The least-expensive 2023 Hyundai Kona is the 2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $34,950.

Other versions include:

N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) which starts at $34,950

Learn more

What are the different models of Hyundai Kona?

If you're interested in the Hyundai Kona, the next question is, which Kona model is right for you? Kona variants include N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM). For a full list of Kona models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more

2023 Hyundai Kona N

Pricing

2023 Hyundai Kona Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

Overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.

Edmunds Expert Rating

Performance

Comfort

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2023 Hyundai Kona N pricing

Edmunds suggests you pay

Interior

Technology

Storage

Fuel Economy

Value

Wildcard

Which Kona does Edmunds recommend?

Hyundai Kona models

Hyundai Kona Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

Budget friendly hot hatch ish.

Kona N Rules

Helpful shopping links

2023 Hyundai Kona videos

Top Subcompact SUVs for 2021-2022 | Extra-Small & Easy to Drive – What's Not to Like?

2023 Hyundai Kona Features Specs

Compare the Hyundai Kona

Hyundai Kona vs. Volkswagen Taos

Hyundai Kona vs. Mazda CX-30

Hyundai Kona vs. Subaru Crosstrek

Safety

Our experts’ favorite Kona safety features:

IIHS Rating

2023 Hyundai Kona First Impressions

FAQ

Is the Hyundai Kona a good car?

What's new in the 2023 Hyundai Kona?

Is the Hyundai Kona reliable?

Is the 2023 Hyundai Kona a good car?

How much should I pay for a 2023 Hyundai Kona?

What are the different models of Hyundai Kona?

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2023 Hyundai Kona N 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.}

Save as much as $4,409 with Edmunds ^{Click on the model you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal.}