2019 Hyundai Kona Review

Name: 2019 Hyundai Kona Review
Brand: Hyundai

Price Range: $8,995 - $22,998

2019 Hyundai Kona Iron Man 4dr SUV Exterior

Hyundai Kona Ultimate 4dr SUV Exterior Shown

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Hyundai Kona model years

2018

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Edmunds' Expert Review

by Mark Takahashi^{Correspondent
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.}

Pros

Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration
Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive
Lots of features for your money

Cons

Weak base engine
Gear shifts from the turbocharged engine's transmission are often unrefined
Interior is trimmed with a lot of hard plastic panels

What's new

Some previously optional advanced safety features are now standard
A minor shuffling of standard and available features
Part of the first Kona generation introduced for 2018

Based on its bodywork alone, the 2019 Hyundai Kona can be hard to love. While evaluating styling is subjective, it's fair to say that the Kona tends to draw more criticism than praise. But the old saying about not judging a book by its cover applies here — the Kona is one of the best subcompact crossover SUVs on the market.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

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2019 Hyundai Kona
SE 4dr SUV
$15,995
fair price
- 51,030 miles
- No accidents, 2 owners, rental vehicle
- 4cyl automatic
- AutoNation Ford Frisco (22 mi away)
- Home delivery*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Tire Pressure Warnin...
- USB Inputs
- Apple Carplay/Androi...
Close
Located in Frisco, TX
Lane Keeping AssistRear SpoilerGray/Black; Cloth Seat TrimOption Group 01Thunder GrayThis vehicle includes a Money-Back Guarantee* and passed o...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary
Accident Free Vehicle: Yes
Personal Use Only: No
History Provider: AutoCheck
Title Details: Clean Title
Salvage Vehicle: No
Frame Damage: No
Theft History: No
Lemon Status: No
Free History Report: No
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (27 City/33 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KM8K12AA8KU284168
Stock: KU284168
Certified Pre-Owned: No
Listed since: 04-03-2025
New Listing
2019 Hyundai Kona
Limited 4dr SUV
$17,998
- 79,652 miles
- 4cyl automated manual
- CarMax Garland (9 mi away)
- Free delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Leather Seats
- Sunroof/Moonroof
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Garland, TX
CarMax values transparency and wants you to love your next car, not settle on it. Certain vehicles may have unrepaired safety recalls. Check nhtsa.gov...
AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary Unavailable.
Features and Specs:
30 Combined MPG (28 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN: KM8K33A54KU374338
Stock: 26921694
Certified Pre-Owned: No

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When equipped with its optional turbocharged engine, it gets up to speed far quicker than anything else in the class. It's also fun to drive around turns thanks to its sporty handling. On top of that, you get a lot for your money. Even a base Kona comes with a decent set of features, including a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. For 2019, you get even more with the Kona. Many of the advanced safety features that were previously only available on the top trim levels are now standard on every Kona.

Overall, we think the Hyundai Kona is an excellent pick in a class that includes the versatile Honda HR-V, the sporty Mazda CX-3 and the affordably priced Nissan Kicks. Factor in Hyundai's lengthy warranty coverage and the value proposition is undeniable. No matter what you may think of its styling, the Kona deserves a second look.

Notably, we picked the 2019 Kona as one of Edmunds' Best Small SUVs for this year.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

7.9 / 10

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions that are fundamentally similar. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the Hyundai Kona Ultimate (turbo 1.6L inline-4 | 7-speed dual-clutch automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted in 2018, the current Kona has received some revisions, including a second USB port and some standard advanced safety features for all trims. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's Kona, however.

Scorecard

Overall	7.9 / 10
Driving	8.0
Comfort	7.5
Interior	8.0
Utility	7.0
Technology	8.5

Driving

8.0

Overall, the Kona is a sporty subcompact SUV with above-average acceleration and handling. However, the turbocharged engine's transmission exhibits some bad behavior at low speed, and braking performance is subpar.

Acceleration

8.5

The turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivers strong acceleration and provides plenty of thrust at city speeds or in freeway passing maneuvers. From a stop, the engine's power is somewhat muted by the dual-clutch automatic transmission's sluggish responses. Still, the Kona zipped from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds in our testing, which absolutely crushes the competition.

Braking

6.5

The brake pedal is smooth and easy to modulate in typical driving. The Kona is well-behaved under hard braking, too. Unfortunately, our as-tested 60-0 mph braking run was 129 feet, which puts the Kona well behind its competitors.

Steering

7.0

The steering feels a bit rubbery, with heavy, artificial resistance. But there is some feedback from the tires, and resistance builds in a linear fashion (feeling more natural in Sport mode), which helps the steering feel accurate. It is surprising how heavy the steering is both in Normal and Sport.

Handling

9.0

Other than a propensity for bounciness when driving over midcorner bumps, the Kona is surprisingly composed through turns. It stays under control and doesn't exhibit excessive body roll. Tire grip is also impressive for the class. Overall, this is one of the Kona's strengths.

Drivability

6.0

There's a distinct delay when accelerating from a stop. And at low speed, the transmission's shifts can be jerky and slow. Once the Kona gets going, upshifts are usually smooth, but downshifts are always a little rough. Sport mode improves the experience but saps fuel economy.

Comfort

7.5

It's not the most comfortable vehicle in its class, but supportive seats, easy-to-use climate control, and above-average noise isolation make the Kona a decent place to spend time. The firm seat cushions and a stiff ride can make bumpy roads or long drives wearing.

Seat comfort

7.5

The front seats are well-shaped and pretty supportive. There is plenty of adjustability but not a whole lot of lateral bolstering. The perforated leather is stiff, and the cushions are noticeably firm. In back, the seats are flat and broad, but not too upright.

Ride comfort

7.0

Smaller imperfections are ironed out, and the suspension takes the edge off just about any bump. But the ride quality can feel a bit too rigid and busy at times. Very bumpy roads can make the vehicle feel excessively unsettled.

Noise & vibration

6.5

When driving at freeway speeds, voices must be raised considerably due to intrusive road noise and noticeable wind noise around the doors. Overall, noise isn't worse than average for the class, with a cabin that's frequently quieter than those of competitors in city driving.

Climate control

8.0

The climate control struggles a bit to cool the entire cabin when it's sweltering outside, but the rest of the time it's effective at keeping you comfortable. The controls are clearly marked and straightforward to use, making it an easy system to operate.

Interior

8.0

Though it has a lot of plasticky materials, the Kona's interior gets high marks. The controls are logically arranged, outward visibility is good, and there's a decent amount of room. Taller drivers and passengers will encounter a few issues.

Ease of use

9.0

Buttons are grouped logically and clearly labeled, and Hyundai's infotainment interface is easy to use. Some of the touch buttons are small on the screen, but otherwise there's nothing to complain about.

Getting in/getting out

8.0

The relatively short doors can be opened wide even in tighter parking spaces. The height of the seat cushions makes the seats easy to slide in and out of. Taller drivers will have to duck a bit when climbing in, and the tight rear kneeroom complicates backseat entry and exit. But that's pretty common for this class of vehicle.

Driving position

7.5

The gauge cluster and the steering wheel are mounted low in the vehicle, making for a slightly awkward angle up toward the driver. The seat's good vertical adjustment means you can sit in an upright SUV position, but that makes the low armrests difficult to use.

Roominess

8.0

There is a suitable amount of space for the driver and front passenger. Rear-seat headroom is decent for the class — more than enough for average adults — but legroom is tight, especially behind a tall driver. Fortunately, there is generous space under the front seats for the rear passengers' feet.

Visibility

8.0

The relatively narrow roof pillars up front make for good forward and side visibility. The rear roof pillars are wide, but adjacent small windows help you see what's over your shoulder. The rearview camera provides a broad and clear picture.

Quality

6.5

Everything feels robustly built, but only the primary touchpoints such as the steering wheel and shifter have been treated with soft-touch materials. Otherwise, the cabin looks and feels very plasticky. The alternating textures break things up visually a bit, but there's no hiding the dreary hard plastic.

Utility

7.0

The Kona really only falters in terms of utility when compared directly to class leaders. The trunk is a usable space, and there are a decent number of small-item storage options. But in every metric, there are competitors that offer superior ways to store your stuff.

Small-item storage

7.0

All four doors get pockets that can hold a water bottle, and the anti-tip cupholders can handle anything short of a large cup. The center console box and glovebox are relatively small. Overall, the Kona is OK with small-item storage but doesn't offer the variety or space of some competitors.

Cargo space

7.0

The trunk is easy to use thanks to a wide, flat load floor. But with 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, the Kona is a little less accommodating than some rivals. The seats fold flat to open up 45.8 cubic feet.

Child safety seat accommodation

7.0

LATCH points are clearly marked and close to the surface, but they're tucked between firm cushions.

Technology

8.5

The Kona is a feature-rich vehicle, with lots of standard tech that works well. It also offers a nearly full suite of user-friendly safety features, not to mention a solid optional sound system.

Audio & navigation

9.0

The optional Infinity stereo system is excellent for this class, with plenty of bass response and good sound quality. The navigation system is simple to use and gets the job done. It has an easy-to-read display and useful turn-by-turn prompts.

Smartphone integration

8.0

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as are two front USB ports. There are two 12-volt outlets for the front seat, and higher trims get a wireless charging pad.

Driver aids

8.0

Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are fitted on all but the base trim, and a more extensive suite of features is available. That said, adaptive cruise control is missing, even as an option. The Kona's systems are consistently accurate, avoiding false alarms in our time with the vehicle.

Voice control

8.0

The Kona's built-in voice controls have limited functionality but work well for what they do, responding slowly but accurately. Step-by-step prompts appear on the screen, but the Kona will allow you to skip steps if you know what you want to do.

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Compare 2019 Hyundai Kona trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2019 Hyundai Kona models

The 2019 Hyundai Kona is a five-passenger subcompact crossover SUV that is available in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited and Ultimate. The SE and SEL models are powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 pound-feet of torque) that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited and Ultimate trims get a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder (175 hp, 195 lb-ft) that's mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Front-wheel drive is standard. All-wheel drive is available as an option for all Konas and comes bundled with a more sophisticated rear suspension design and a lockable center differential. The latter enhances traction at low speed in off-road or snowy conditions.

Hyundai Kona SE

Standard features for the SE trim include 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a height-adjustable driver's seat, and 60/40-split folding rear seats. Tech features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, two USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, and a six-speaker audio system. New for 2019, the base Kona also gets forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist and a driver attention monitor.

Hyundai Kona SEL

The SEL trim adds 17-inch wheels, roof rails, heated side mirrors, keyless entry and ignition, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, heated front seats, a split-level cargo area, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, voice recognition, and satellite and HD radio.

An optional SEL Tech package bundles foglights, a sunroof, a power-adjustable driver's seat, an eight-speaker Infinity audio system, and Hyundai's Blue Link communications system.

Hyundai Kona Limited

Stepping up to the Limited trim gets you all of the above plus the turbocharged engine, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights and taillights, upgraded exterior trim, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a universal garage door opener.

Hyundai Kona Ultimate

The range-topping Ultimate trim comes loaded up with rear parking sensors, pedestrian detection for the forward collision mitigation system, automatic high beams, automatic wipers, a head-up display, an 8-inch touchscreen, a navigation system, and a wireless charging pad.

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Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2019 Hyundai Kona SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) 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 $2.71 per gallon for regular unleaded in Texas.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Texas

$114/mo

$141/mo

Avg. Compact SUV

Calculate my fuel costs

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Hyundai Kona Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.2

60 reviews

5(62%)

4(20%)

3(7%)

2(1%)

1(10%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

KONA AWD SEL Snow VEHICLE

Norman, 05/06/2019

2019 Hyundai Kona SE 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

Recently purchased a SEL KONA with Base 2.0 L engine and regular automatic transmission and love the Car for getting to work no matter what the road conditions are. I drove this vehicle in deep snow and severe winter ice conditions and felt confident and assured I would arrive on time and have fun doing it.

2019 Hyundai Kona is awesome

Renate Becker, 03/17/2019

2019 Hyundai Kona SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

I traded in a sedan and got this mini SUV. I was looking for a small crossover and this car caught my eye. It feels so big sitting inside and is very comfortable. It has no problem with get up and go. Add in the 10-year powertrain warranty and 5 yr/60,000 bumper-to-bumper and this car is all I need.

a nice sleeper

denobe, 04/18/2019

2019 Hyundai Kona Limited 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 7AM)

ive had it for a year awd 1.6 turbo quick small suv I traded in a crostrex for the kona the crostrek is a slug compared to the kona

Fun To Drive

2 Hyundai owner, 01/14/2019

2019 Hyundai Kona SEL 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl 6A)

Peppy and fun to drive. Busy ride on bumps. Lousy low beam headlights but aftermarket LED bulbs available on the internet.

See all 60 reviews of the Hyundai Kona

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2019 Kona Highlights

Trim:

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$19,990
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	30 MPG
Cost to Drive	$114/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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Safety

Our experts like the Kona models:

Forward Collision Avoidance: 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.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover4 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover14.1%

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

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2019 Hyundai Kona Review

Price & Payment

Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What's new

For sale nearby

2019 Hyundai KonaSE 4dr SUV

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2019 Hyundai KonaLimited 4dr SUV

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Technology

Audio & navigation

Smartphone integration

Driver aids

Voice control

Which Kona does Edmunds recommend?

2019 Hyundai Kona models

Hyundai Kona SE

Hyundai Kona SEL

Hyundai Kona Limited

Hyundai Kona Ultimate

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2019 Hyundai Kona SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) 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 $2.71 per gallon for regular unleaded in Texas.

Hyundai Kona Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

KONA AWD SEL Snow VEHICLE

2019 Hyundai Kona is awesome

a nice sleeper

Fun To Drive

2019 Kona Highlights

Safety

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2019 Hyundai Kona
SE 4dr SUV

2019 Hyundai Kona
Limited 4dr SUV

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2019 Hyundai Kona SE 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl 6A) 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 $2.71 per gallon for regular unleaded in Texas.}