Car Review: Hyundai Kona Limited Delivers More Than Expected

EAST HADDAM, CT – Touted as being “larger and more capable than ever,” the Kona model is Hyundai’s “fun-sized” utility crossover. The top-of-the-line Kona Limited version demonstrates the power of not only meeting expectations, but of consistently exceeding them. It’s proven here in the United States by the growth of the Korean carmaker’s sales. 

Now in its second generation and six inches longer, the subcompact is not as petite as you might imagine. The wheelbase has likewise been extended by some two-plus inches, which translates directly into improved rear legroom for the little ones. Talking about nurturing expectations.

Hyundai also upped the ante with the Kona when it came to in-use integrity. More than 50 percent of it is made up of high strength steel with a reliance on structural adhesives, which improves rigidity. You can easily tell by how isolated and compliant it is. It takes to the tarmac with a level of quiet refinement that might embarrass other upscale contenders. 

In yet another pleasant surprise, the Kona Limited has a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine that puts out a capable (for its size and weight) 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. torque. It’s paired with a real eight-speed automatic transmission, so there are no wheezing, overtaxed engines or CVT (continuously variable transmission) compromises here.  

Since the proof is in the product, I can vouch that the Kona crossover is fun to drive. It’s nimble and exacting as it goes about its business along the twisty highways and byways. Mine was fitted with optional HTRAC (Hyundai TRACtion) intelligent all-wheel drive which further inspired seat of the pants confidence, particularly with its multi-link rear suspension and 19-inch wheels. The downsize is that it does knock two to three miles per gallon off the fuel economy ratings.

The Kona Limited has a Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control system that automatically anticipates and accommodates upcoming curves via GPS data. In fact, fourteen more control technologies are included in Hyundai’s advanced SmartSense suite of safety systems; from Forward Collision Avoidance to Rear Cross-Traffic Assist. There’s also full Surround View Monitoring, so it’s no wonder that the Kona was named a 2025 IIHS+ (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) Top Safety Pick.

On the inside, the Limited trim level adds premium fit and finish within the cabin. The eight-way heated and cooled, perforated Leatherette seats proved comfortable and supportive along the road more or less travelled. Delicate LED ambient lighting sets a warm and inviting tone throughout the hospitable interior as does the mellow Bose sound system. 

There’s plenty of glass area (at least up front) to ensure good outward visibility. As is becoming quite common, though, the door belt line is a bit high for ATM and drive-thru duty. Brightwork trim sweeps up into the rear roof spoiler.

Two large 12.3-inch screens for instrumentation and infotainment are combined into a single, parabolic-like display housing. That’s something that is also not often found on a $32,650 (base MSRP for 2026 model) crossover. There are even some good ol’ buttons and switches included, instead of being overloaded with electronic control. And plenty of storage nooks, too.

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If anything, the most controversial Kona concern has to be its styling. An electric vehicle (EV) design language runs from stem to stern, with narrow LED light bands up front and out back, too. In between, chunky, trapezoidal wheel surrounds and front/rear fascias (with what appear to be rather vulnerable corner light clusters) plus lower body valences (combined with a Star Wars-inspired alloy wheel design) evoke a futuristic image. 

Some observers consider this a bit too extreme for this more mainstream, family-friendly, internal combustion iteration instead of the available EV alternative, which was introduced first.

The available color palette is energized, with such electrified hues as Soultronic Orange Pearl, Neoteric Yellow and Ultimate Red Metallic. Though there are more somber (and better selling) blacks, grays and whites in the mix.

Finally, another interesting design element is the deep trough ahead of the windshield which almost completely hides the wipers. While it’s obviously good for aerodynamics, it’s also so big that it collects an inordinate amount of spring tree droppings, pedals and leaves. Ask me how I know?

Of course, being a Hyundai, the Kona comes with a 10-year, 100,000 mile Powertrain warranty, with complimentary limited maintenance for 3 years or 36,000 miles. 

Is it any wonder that Hyundai sales are up? Perhaps it’s because the Hawaiian Kona name “reflects the lifestyle of modern customers,” who have become accustomed to driving off with more than expected because Hyundai “puts people first.”  

(Unless otherwise noted photos are courtesy of Hyundai.)