Hyundai Kona Named as Brand's New Small Crossover
Hyundai’s first B-segment SUV will be called the Kona.
Named after the coastal region in Hawaii, Hyundai says Kona “is a renowned destination for thrill-seeking travelers and reflects the adventurous spirit” of its upcoming model. Set to launch in the summer of 2017, the Hyundai Kona will be a compact crossover and has been developed with a focus on enhancing driving dynamics. The Korean automaker hopes to set new performance standards in the segment, with the Kona promising to deliver best-in-class interior space and innovative design features that hint at the future direction of the brand’s next generation of SUV models.
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The Hyundai Kona is believed to be based on the i30, putting it in a similar class as the Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V. Although Hyundai has only released the above teaser image, the Kona’s headlights look quite different than any other existing Hyundai model, hinting that it will usher in a new design language for the brand.
Spy photographers have already caught the Hyundai Kona testing on public roads, but not much is known about the model. Expect front-wheel drive to be standard, however, although optional all-wheel drive should be available.
Discuss this story on our Hyundai Kona Forum
Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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Funny that you should name some sleek sub-compact urban crossover after Kona where it's hot, rocky, and rural. What you want in Kona is a Tacoma or Frontier. I suppose it's just like no one in Malibu drives a Chevy Malibu.