The 2018 Hyundai Kona made its grand debut at the amusement park-like facility of the automaker yesterday in South Korea, where it will go on sale this month. The fourth in the crossover lineup of Hyundai is yet to hit the U.S. showrooms early next year, following Santa Fe, Santa Fe Sport, and Tucson. It may be small but the new model features terrible performance, design and comfort.
The new Kona utilized the same platform for the brand's Accent subcompact model. The upcoming Stonic subcompact crossover from Kia also shares this platform. The new Kona also used the latest design concept, which leaves the usual designs of Hyundai, that will carry the future crossover lineup of the brand.
Hyundai vice chairman Euisun Chung described this new design language prior to the launch of the new Kona. "We aim to set new standards for the compact SUV segment, with appealing design, cutting-edge connectivity and class-leading safety features," said Chung.
This new design concept features the new layout of the thin daytime running lights and the turn signal lights above the grille from the headlights placed under the lights at the front bumper. The concept is also evident from behind the new Kona where a set of thin horizontal taillights divide the turn signal housings.
Speaking of bumpers, the new crossover comes with a plastic cladding all throughout the bumpers and wheel arches for that more rugged look. It comes with a contrast color for that additional stylish look.
Underneath the hood, the 2018 Hyundai Kona runs with a 2.0-liter engine that can deliver 147 bhp and 132 lb-ft of torque. The engine is also mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and claims an acceleration rate of 10 seconds from 0 to 62 mph.
The standard Kona comes as a front-wheel drive. It also has three driving modes, Normal, Sport and Eco.
The new Kona will offer the optional 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that can deliver 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates faster at 7.7 seconds from 0 to 62 mph. A four-wheel drive model will also be offered as an option.
The 2018 Hyundai Kona, the brand's first global B-segment crossover, claims to offer the best-in-class interior space that was made possible through the 4WD drivetrain and exhaust system. The new crossover also aims to offer ample space for more convenience where the rear seats can be folded flat while the seating position has been lifted higher.
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