Here’s the first look at the new Hyundai Kona, revamped, restyled and ‘upscaled’ in size for 2023.
The Hyundai Kona, rival to the Kia Niro, is one of the most versatile compact crossovers on the market, available as an electric vehicle (EV), hybrid and with a traditional petrol engine with mild-hybrid tech bolted on.
Unlike most crossovers, it’s also available as a performance model - the rapid, 280 bhp Kona N.
None of that will change next year - you’ll still be able to lease a Kona with a host of different powertrains.
But what will be different is how the Kona looks, because the design has been given a ‘futuristic’ makeover. The Kona has also grow in size compared with the outgoing model.
SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center, tells us: “Upscaled with Kona’s unique character, the all-new Kona confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence.
“Kona has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter."
The so-called ‘urban-centric SUV’ is now 150mm longer than before and 25mm wider. The wheelbase has also been elongated by 60mm.
There’s a distinctive new ‘nose’ for the exterior ‘which contributes to the model’s smooth aerodynamic performance’, says Hyundai.
There’s also something called a ‘Seamless Horizon Lamp’ light set-up at the front and rear, pixelated on the EV variant, to give the Kona further head-turning abilities.
There are several other styling variations between the powertrain variants.
A Hyundai spokesperson adds: “The EV gets pixel graphic details on the intake grille and rear bumper, a pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheel design, black embracing line and optional black side mirrors and roof.
“The ICE (internal combustion engine) and HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) share a bold and rugged bumper and skid plate design, and black wheel arch cladding.
“The N Line boasts optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper to emphasise a lower stance, distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels, twin muffler and silver side skirt.”
Because the Kona is now bigger than before, there’s a larger ‘living space’ in the cabin, complete with a pair of 12.3 inch screens, ambient lighting, and an uncluttered layout.
And that’s about as much as we know right now, with further details to be revealed in the coming weeks.
Watch this space.
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