The 2022 Hyundai Kona isn’t all that much different from the new 2023 Hyundai Kona as the 2023 model is primarily a carry-over model with a few small changes, the most notable one being that the 2023 model is now able to receive over-the-air updates. Sure, the price is going up by a few thousand dollars, but everything else stays the same.
In this article, we will tell you all about the 2023 Hyundai Kona, why you should consider it, and potentially even buy it. This small Hyundai hatchback/crossover offers a well-rounded experience with decent space and decent tech. It is also a really reliable car as is the case with most Hyundai models these days which should also be a big reason to consider it.
Design-wise, the 2023 Hyundai Kona stayed unchanged from the 2022 model, but that is no bad thing because the previous Kona looked really fresh for its time. The interior is also nicely laid-out with easy-to-use controls and an intuitive and responsive infotainment screen.
Space on offer is enough for a car of this size while pricing is very similar to its competitors. All in all, the Hyundai Kona is certainly a car you ought to consider if you are after a small hatchback/crossover that offers lots of value for your money and manages to stay trouble-free for the most part.
2023 Hyundai Kona – The Powertrain
The 2023 Hyundai Kona gets a 1.6L inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine carried over from the previous model which offers 177hp and 195lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a permanent AWD system and should return around 35-40MPG maximum. It is also mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox which should suit the Kona perfectly.
You can also get a 1.6L hybrid engine and a fully electric model with a 39kWh battery or a larger 64kWh battery. On the top-end of the spectrum, you can also go for the high-performance Hyundai Kona N model which offers a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder engine with more than 400hp and permanent AWD which is sure to make the little Kona a lot more fun to drive.
All in all, the powertrain options with the 2023 Kona are really good as they combine efficiency, power, and sophistication in a single package.
2023 Hyundai Kona – Design and Driving
When it comes to exterior design, the 2023 Kona is mostly recognizable for its futuristic-looking front-end with lots of openings and design choices. It may not be the best-looking car in its segment, but it also isn’t going to offend anyone. The interior is nicely laid out, easy to use, and should be more than enough for 99% of people.
The driving experience isn’t anything special which means that the Kona drives like you’d expect a small crossover to. Except for the top-spec Kona N which gets stiffer suspension, less body roll, a slightly lower ride height, and bigger wheels – all of which lead to a more focused, more agile driving experience.
2023 Hyundai Kona – Reliability and Common Issues
Because the 2023 Hyundai Kona is not out yet for us to properly gauge how reliable it is going to be, we can’t make a complete assessment of it. However, because the 2023 model is mostly a 2022 model, for the most part, we can say that it is going to be a really reliable car because J.D. Power awarded the 2022 model with a Great 81/100 result.
However, no car is perfect which means that we also need to mention the most common faults of the existing Kona. Those are associated with the brakes, the electrical system, ADAS, the engine, and potentially even the high-voltage battery on Hyundai Kona electric models.
2023 Hyundai Kona – Value and Practicality
Value-wise, you can expect the 2023 Kona to start at around $25,000 or more depending on the market, the availability, and how the global inflation goes. Electric 2023 Konda models cost well over $30,000 which is to be expected for an EV. The top end 2023 Kona N high-performance model is likely going to set you back $36,000.
Practicality is fine for a car of this size which means that you can pack up to four passengers at the same time without any issues. Cargo space is also really good, one of the best ones in its segment.
FAQ Section
Should I buy a 2022 Hyundai Kona or the 2023 Hyundai Kona?
If you can get a good deal on one of the existing 2022 Hyundai Kona models still sitting on various dealership lots around the world, I’d go for the 2022 model in a heartbeat. The reason is pricing as these 2022 new or slightly used Hyundai Kona models are noticeably cheaper than the 2023 models without being all that much different.
As such, you are basically getting the same car for a slightly lower price which can be better spent on optional equipment and better tires. However, if you are leasing/financing your next Hyundai Kona, it’s a good idea to consider the 2023 model as the lease/premium prices shouldn’t differ much at all.
Is the Hyundai Kona small?
Yes, it is. The Hyundai Kona is a compact car through and through which means that most people will deem it to be too small for their liking. This is not to say that the Kona can’t fit larger adults, because it can, it’s more about the feeling you get while behind the wheel of the Kona.
You can’t be as comfortable in the Kona as you can be in something larger which is why the Kona is a great car for city streets, but not the best when it comes to long-distance journeys where size and space can make all the difference.
Is the Hyundai Kona N fun to drive?
Some high-profile journalists have come out and said recently that the Hyundai Kona N is one of the most entertaining cars to drive in existence. Yes, you heard that right, some journalists state that the Kona N is more fun to drive than many sportscars and even supercars are.
