The next-generation Hyundai Kona will attain U.S. showrooms within the coming months and whereas it’s, in some ways, an evolutionary replace, there are many issues price noting.
To begin with, the South Korean crossover grows almost 7 inches longer, with a cabin that’s not solely roomier however markedly upgraded. It provides new tech options, together with a bigger battery pack for the EV model that delivers a slight bit extra vary. Curiously, whereas horsepower is up, the all-electric mannequin does lose some torque.
As earlier than, there will likely be numerous completely different fashions providing patrons a selection of both fuel or all-electric propulsion. Among the variations utilizing inside combustion energy that features a sporty N Line mannequin, whereas Hyundai now provides a short-range battery mannequin for these trying to go inexperienced on a funds.
The automaker’s Korean headquarters launched some choose particulars in regards to the 2024 Hyundai Kona. We’ll have to attend for full specs. But right here’s what we’ve up to now realized.
Longer, roomier
Depending upon the trim package deal, the brand new crossover grows as a lot as 6.9 inches in general size, the wheelbase stretched by 2.4 inches. The automaker got down to tackle a number of the key complaints in regards to the first-generation Kona, notably the cramped cabin and cargo bay. The elevated dimensions actually assist, as does the change to entrance seats which can be 30% thinner. With all seats upright, Hyundai claims cargo area jumps from 13 to 17 cubic ft.
Buyers can go for the brand new “relaxation seat” for the motive force which, the declare goes, is rather more snug on lengthy cruises.
The styling updates are modest — the obvious distinction with the 2024 mannequin being the introduction of smaller, lower-mounted headlamps and the sunshine bar operating atop the brand new Kona’s grille. This “Seamless horizon” design is mirrored by the 2024 mannequin’s new taillight design.
There’ll be refined variations relying upon trim. The physique cladding is grey on all gas-powered fashions however the N Line, which picks up the physique shade cladding of the EVs. The N Line additionally provides a reasonably aggressive two-piece rear spoiler.
Powertrain choices
Sadly, that mannequin seems to be extra present than go, with no distinction in energy.
There are some huge adjustments with regards to the EVs drivetrain. Horsepower is up by 17, to 218 horsepower. But, until Hyundai goofed the discharge, torque tumbles from a fairly stable 291 pound-feet to a extra anemic 156.
Power comes from a 65.4 kilowatt-hour lithium-ion pack, a rise of 1.4 kWh. Using the worldwide WLTP take a look at cycle, Hyundai claims that may ship 304 miles per cost, a rise of three miles. It didn’t launch U.S. specs however this is able to counsel an equally modest soar from the present EPA ranking of 258 miles per cost.
Charging
Charging instances seem like faster, extra in keeping with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and we’ll even have to attend to see if which means charging energy jumps from 400 to 800 volts now. Expect the 2024 Kona to go from 10% to 80% of capability in simply 41 minutes.
Like the Ioniq 5, the Kona now options bi-directional charging, which means it may well present energy. You might use that, say, to energy house home equipment throughout a blackout, or to function a TV at a campsite.
Short-range EV
The short-range mannequin will use a 48.4 kWh battery pack. It’s unclear if it would persist with an NCM — brief for nickel-cobalt-manganese — pack or migrate to much less energy-dense lithium-iron-phosphate. We’ll have to attend for vary information. This model develops the identical torque because the long-range Kona however simply 146 hp.
Don’t be shocked to see a real sport N mannequin comply with in a yr or two. Car & Driver is reporting Hyundai is also working up a Kona Hybrid, however not for the U.S.
Gas fashions will likely be supplied with both front- or all-wheel drive. Though the EVs will use a single, front-mounted motor, a sportier package deal with entrance and rear motors might comply with.
New expertise
Expect to see an expanded vary of superior driver help methods, inline with what Hyundai now’s providing on different product strains.
Factory-released photographs counsel the brand new tech features a bigger infotainment display screen and a digital instrument cluster, each underneath a single sheet of glass. The automaker isn’t saying if that will likely be customary throughout your entire 2024 Kona vary, nevertheless.
There’ll be a brand new, 360-degree digital camera view, in addition to the flexibility to make use of a smartphone as a substitute of a key, one thing rolling out throughout your entire Hyundai Motor Group line-up of Hyundai, Genesis and Kia fashions.
Timing, pricing
Overall, the cabin seems to have been markedly upgraded, a lot as we’ve been seeing on different Hyundai product strains.
The 2024 Hyundai Kona is on the docket for an April debut on the New York International Auto Show. Pricing must be launched nearer to the on-sale date through the third quarter of 2023.
Source: www.thedetroitbureau.com