What kind of vehicle is the 2023 Hyundai Kona? What does it compare to?
The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a small SUV with room for five passengers that competes with the Subaru Crosstrek and Kia Seltos.
Is the 2023 Hyundai Kona a good SUV?
Review continues below
It’s a solid overall choice, with a huge lineup of variants that offer something for just about everyone looking for a small SUV. Overall, we rate the range at 6.2 out of 10, though more powerful turbocharged versions could score even higher. (Read more about how we rate cars.)
Notably, the Kona Electric is evaluated separately.
What’s new for the 2023 Hyundai Kona?
The Kona sees no tweaks for 2023 after some updates last year that brought new styling and more power options.
A single body style that blurs the line between hatchback and small SUV serves up decent interior space from a small package that measures just 167 inches long overall. The Kona looks best with color-matched trim in N-Line and Kona N configurations, but even then, it’s still a busy piece of styling..
Base SE and SEL versions use a frugality-minded inline-4, but the turbo engine that comes on N-Line and Limited trims is nearly as thrifty while delivering far better acceleration in any driving situation. Look for fuel economy as high as 30 mpg combined, though optional all-wheel drive can add thirst in exchange for traction—and a smoother ride.
The Kona N operates more like a sports car with a somewhat elevated seating position. Its 275-hp engine and race-style automatic gearbox pair with a crackling exhaust and a honed suspension to give the Volkswagen GTI and Subaru WRX a serious run for their money.
Even though it’s small, the Kona carves out decent interior space and has a reasonably useful trunk. Its cabin lacks the classy touches seen in other Hyundai models, though, reminding us of its low position in the automaker’s hierarchy.
Safety-wise, it’s no slouch, though, with good standard crash-avoidance tech and impressive scores from the NHTSA and the IIHS.
How much does the 2023 Hyundai Kona cost?
The 2023 Hyundai Kona should start around $24,000 and climb to about $36,000 in Kona N configuration. Most buyers will be well-served with a $26,000 or so SEL, though the N-Line is only slightly costlier and delivers better acceleration. Final prices should be announced this fall.
Where is the 2023 Hyundai Kona made?
In South Korea.