Hyundai Motor Company Middle East and North Africa – Regional Headquarters, in partnership with distributors in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Wallan, Almajdouie and Al Naghi, held a regional press event, in the JAX District in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, a multi-talented car B-segment SUV, with advanced safety and comfort features, and class-leading driving performance.
The second-generation Kona offers one of the most comprehensive product packages in the B-SUV segment, including the widest range of engines. Customers can choose from hybrid (HEV) and internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain options in addition to the N Performance version of each, with the all-electric EV variant to follow soon and in select markets.
In an unconventional and creative move, Hyundai Motor developed the new Kona as an electric vehicle first, in line with the company’s announced accelerated electrification strategy that will bring 11 new all-electric Hyundai vehicles to the market by 2030.
With its muscular, dynamic design and refined dimensions, the all-new KONA retains its distinctive character, supporting the active lifestyles of customers of all ages and generations, while introducing new technologies and convenience features that deliver a safe, connected, and comfortable experience. Among these upgrades are the dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screen.
The all-new Kona arrives in the market equipped with Hyundai’s Advanced SmartSense Driver Assistance System (ADAS) and safety systems, including Forward Collision Avoidance (FCA), Blind Spot Monitoring (BVM), and Intelligent Assist for Remote Vehicle Parking (RSPA), and Driver Condition Monitoring (DSM).
Compared to the previous generation Kona, the new model has unique proportions and increased dimensions. It is now 4355mm long, 175mm longer than the previous generation in 2017, with a wheelbase of 2660mm, 60mm longer. It measures 1825mm wide by 25mm wide by 20mm high by 1575mm high.
EV-inspired exterior design creates a powerful and dynamic impression.
For the all-new KONA, Hyundai Motor has moved away from the traditional ICE-to-EV development process and toward an electric-to-ICEV conversion process, resulting in a futuristic EV-focused exterior that stands out Pure SUV size to make a strong and dynamic impression.
With a drag coefficient of just 0.27, the new Kona excels in aerodynamic performance without sacrificing style. Between the aerodynamic front and tailgate, sculpted wheel arches and parametric surfaces give a character to pure volume, with dynamic lines of chrome connecting the belt line to the rear spoiler with integrated high stop lamp (HMSL). As for the bright exterior colors, they further emphasize the iconic Kona design that is inspired by the diverse lifestyles of a wide range of customers.
N Performance versions feature black mirrors, an optional black spoiler and roof, more aggressive front and rear styling with a wing-shaped bumper to emphasize the lowered stance, dual exhausts, and silver-painted trim.
More spacious and versatile interior design to suit a wide range of lifestyles.
Based on the model’s improved dimensions and global EV-derived base, Hyundai Motor has been able to design a larger interior “living space” to suit a wide range of lifestyles. The driver-focused front row is accentuated by a horizontal floating C-panel with integrated dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays that underscore the KONA’s tech-savvy personality.
As part of the new Kona design, gearbox shifter has been moved from the center console to behind the steering wheel via paddle shifters, allowing for more storage in the center console area. The design also emphasizes the Kona’s larger and more spacious interior, providing a more versatile and comfortable space for driver and passengers.
This impression is reinforced by the fact that all the driver’s controls are moved around the steering wheel, allowing the open console to be stowed with rotating cup holders. Ambient lighting is also supported by OTA maintenance updates and new features.
The comfort reclining seat option for the first row has been optimized for “weightless” body pressure distribution to help reduce fatigue after driving. A recline seat in the second row increases habitability and provides easy maintenance, and a latch provides two rear seat recline options.
The fully folding second-row seat and rear deck offer up to 466 liters of cargo space (VDA standard) to meet the highest level of customer needs while improving loading ease. Loading anything from luggage to shopping bags is easier than ever thanks to the convenient Smart Tailgate Customizable interior that enhances access to luggage space.
Convenience is supported by a range of technologies.
The all-new Kona takes convenience to the next level, providing an upgradeable experience.
Inside, dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays are integrated into the audio and video navigation (AVN) system to give drivers an immersive digital experience.
The new KONA will be the first Hyundai model to implement the new Vehicle Connected Cockpit (ccNC), which provides advanced graphics and perfect match between vehicle displays. When parking, the Surround View Monitor (SVM) displays the vehicle from different vantage points for safe and easy parking while wide-projection LED headlights illuminate the road.
Bose engineers have fine-tuned the Bose premium audio system with eight speakers plus a subwoofer to deliver a rich and immersive listening experience. Driver and passengers alike have access to two USB-C charging devices (one with data support) and a 12V power outlet in the front as well as two USB-C charging devices in the rear. The Kona is also equipped with the latest version of Hyundai’s connectivity technology and Bluelink® music and video service will be made available later.
SmartSense ADAS features
The second-generation Kona is equipped with the next level of Hyundai SmartSense ADAS features not available in most other B-SUVs, ensuring the highest levels of safety and comfort on the road.
The Driver Condition Monitoring (DSM) system uses the vehicle’s interior camera to analyze the driver’s face and, if drowsy or careless, alerts or intervenes, if necessary. The Smart Parking System (RSPA) helps drivers enter and exit parking spaces remotely. Pressing the smart key button moves the vehicle forward or backward.
The Blind Spot Vision Monitor (BVM) assists when the driver changes lane by sounding an alert to warn of the risk of collision with vehicles in the blind spot. If necessary, the brakes are applied automatically to prevent a collision.
The all-new Kona is packed with other various ADAS driver assistance systems, such as Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Blind Spot Collision Avoidance (BCA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Driver Attention Warning (DAW) and High Beam Assist (HBA). It is also equipped with many driving comfort functions, such as Intelligent Cruise Control (SCC), Navigation-Based Intelligent Cruise Control (NSCC), Lane Departure System (LFA) and Highway Driving Assistance (HDA).