Unveiling the All-New 2024 Hyundai Kona at New York Auto Show
At the New York International Auto Show, Hyundai has unveiled the Hyundai Kona lineup, which consists of the all-new Kona Electric, Limited, and N Line models. They have positioned the Kona as a premium player in the small SUV segment, with the electric version offering advanced safety features, convenience, and an impressive range of 260 miles, according to preliminary estimates by Hyundai.
The second-generation Kona boasts a comprehensive product package, including a wide range of powertrains, such as electric and internal combustion options, as well as a sporty N Line variant. The all-new 2024 Hyundai Kona will be available at U.S. dealerships this fall.
Hyundai is prioritizing the development of an electrified powertrain for the new Kona platform, in line with its accelerated electrification strategy. The company plans to launch 11 new electric vehicles globally by 2030. The new Kona and Kona Electric feature exceptional efficiency, advanced technologies, unique design and comprehensive safety features. The Kona Electric is a crucial model in Hyundai's drive towards sustainable mobility and progress for humanity.
The all-new Kona still maintains its iconic character with an upgraded and bigger design that suits the active lifestyle of customers of all ages. It provides innovative technologies and features that ensure a safe, connected, and comfortable experience. The vehicle now comes with dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates, Digital Key 2 Touch, and Hyundai's next-generation infotainment system.
According to Hyundai's initial internal tests, the Kona Electric comes with a 64.8-kWh battery and can travel up to 260 miles on a single charge. The battery can be charged quickly using the available 400V fast-charging feature and can go from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 43 minutes. In addition, the standard battery option is estimated to offer a range of around 197 miles based on preliminary internal testing.
The latest version of the car has distinct measurements, resulting in a greater size and more spacious interior. The length of the Kona gasoline-powered model has been extended to 171.3 inches, which is 5.7 inches more than before, and its wheelbase now measures 104.7 inches, which is 2.3 inches longer. Furthermore, the overall width of the vehicle has increased to 71.9 inches, which is one inch wider than the previous model.
Hyundai took a different approach in developing the 2024 Hyundai Kona by starting with an electric vehicle platform and creating an exterior design that combines both sleek and rugged elements to enhance the car's unique appearance. Despite its aerodynamic performance with a drag coefficient of 0.27, the Kona Electric maintains its style with sculpted wheel arch armor and parametric surfaces that add volume and character. Chrome lines connect the belt line to the rear spoiler, and the Electric variant boasts a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp and Pixel graphics. Additionally, the Kona offers a range of exterior colors to suit various customer lifestyles.
Hyundai's Kona model has a driver-centric design with a larger interior space, created using universal architecture from electric vehicles. Features include a floating C-Pad with dual panoramic 12.3 inch display screens and a moved gear selector to maximize storage space. The front seats are slimmer, and the second row has Curveless Bench Seating, allowing for more legroom. A two-stage latching system allows for rear seat reclining. Ambient interior lighting is also available.
The vehicle has a fully foldable second-row seat and rear compartment, which provides ample rear cargo storage space. When the seatbacks are up, there is 25.5 cubic feet of cargo volume, and when they are folded down, the volume is increased to 63.7 cubic feet. The Smart Power Tailgate feature makes loading items such as luggage and shopping bags easier and improves access to the cargo space.
The new Kona has advanced safety features, including Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) and Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM). RSPA helps drivers park remotely with the press of a smart key button, while BVM provides live video of blind spot areas in the instrument cluster to aid in lane changes. These features are not commonly found in small SUVs.
Kona provides various driving convenience functions like Smart Cruise Control, Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Parking Distance Warning, and Remote Start.