With crossover SUVs invading freeways nationwide, manufacturers must continue to forge new paths in this popular segment. Most drivers want generous city-friendly packages with plenty of standard features and a touch of cuteness out of their crossovers. The hatchback shaped 2020 Hyundai Kona hits on many of these desires.
What are some of the 2020 Hyundai Kona’s most prominent features?
- Smooth six-speed automatic transmission connected to a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine
- Generous suite of standard features
- Stylish and smart interior/exterior
- Excellent fuel economy
Hyundai threw every crossover detail it could at the 2020 Kona. Thankfully, this article will take a deeper dive into this small SUV’s unique characteristics, features and humble foundations. We’ll examine the history of the Kona and what consumers are saying about this unique crossover.
Hyundai’s First Small SUV
Hyundai first introduced its version of a small SUV — the Kona — in 2017. The Kona got its name from a famous vacation spot in Hawaii known as the Kona district. With its dynamic and powerful character lines, Hyundai hoped to attract female drivers who prefer small SUVs.
In 2018, Hyundai rolled out the electric Kona small SUV. This hybrid crossover was a big hit with drivers who preferred environmentally-friendly vehicles. After just two years since it was first launched, the Kona hybrid sold nearly 104,000 units as of mid-2020.
Quick, Responsive and a Blast to Drive
If you’re looking for that tall, commanding presence you often see with crossover SUVs, the 2020 Hyundai Kona probably isn’t for you. However, if character and driving fun is what you’re looking for, the Kona is definitely for you.
With a smooth six-speed automatic transmission connected to a peppy, yet fuel-efficient 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the Kona delivers a surprisingly swift acceleration compared to some of its competitors.
Optional all-wheel drive adds even more efficiency for this simple yet stylish crossover.
An available turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder pumps out 175-horsepower with 195-foot pounds of torque connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. You can expect around 27 mpg city and 33 mpg highway if you upgrade to the turbo engine. You’ll get roughly 28/32 mpg city and highway with the standard four-cylinder.
Although a 2.0L four-cylinder with a six-speed transmission sounds pretty basic, the Kona’s standard powertrain delivers surprisingly quick acceleration and plenty of torque when you need it.
Both the six and seven-speed transmissions allow you to shift gears seamlessly, which is a big plus when you’re trying to pass slower traffic or merge onto a multi-lane freeway.
No Need to Try and Look Cool
There is much more to the 2020 Hyundai Kona than a peppy engine with quick acceleration. Unlike its rivals such as the Subaru Crossover or the Honda HR-V, the Kona delivers its own brand of edgy designs, and they’re certainly not drab. The Kona doesn’t try to look cool, it does look cool.
The Kona’s sleek, almost aerodynamic looks might make this crossover feel like it belongs in a sci-fi movie. This playful, inexpensive subcompact SUV also offers a host of driver-assist technologies and a suite of state-of-the-art interior gadgets.
A generous list of standard features includes a class-leading lane-centering assist system, forward-collision warning and a driver-attention monitor. When you climb up the trim ladder, you’ll get rear-cross traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and a nifty head-up display that provides you with useful driver information.
What 2020 Hyundai Kona Owners are Saying
The best way to learn more about any vehicle is to see what the owners are saying. Here’s a look at a few of the Kona’s pros and cons directly from consumers:
Pros:
- “I can’t say enough good things about this car. The Kona beats out the HRV hands down, and the options available on the Ultimate trim sealed the deal.”
- “I love having a new car that I do not need to worry about. It drives so well, there are close to zero blind spots, and the back-up camera is a lifesaver. The optional all-wheel drive and sport mode makes this car so much fun to drive.”
- “Surprisingly peppy which every day is a pleasant treat! All features work easily! Attractive model! Terrific mpg! Attractive design! Exterior lights are very attractive & safety–most important! Bright paint color is unique & clearly Kona is visible in all types of weather!”
Cons:
- “Some of the designs are a bit bizarre, and the exterior choices might not make it an ideal fit as an everyday, family driver.”
- “The wide, black trim over the wheels is intrusive. All-wheel drive should be standard and there are limited interior color choices.”
To Drive a Kona is to Love a Kona
The 2020 Hyundai Kona has a big personality, and if you’re looking for the status quo in your next crossover, the Kona probably isn’t the best fit. However, if you are in the market for a slightly bizarre crossover with a lot of visuals, make sure you check out the Hyundai Kona’s Vehicle History before you make the commitment.
