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2022 Hyundai Kona review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Hyundai Kona highlights

Customer rating

RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Plenty of standard equipment across the lineup
  • New Kona N offers nice performance and sharp handling

Cons

  • Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic can feel a bit slow to shift
  • Interior is let down by the cheap-looking plastic trim

Mileage (EPA estimate)

20 city, 27 highway, 23 combined

Pricing for current inventory

From $19,998 - $25,998*

View our Hyundai Kona inventory
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The 2022 Kona ups its behind-the-wheel appeal with the new N model

The 2022 Hyundai Kona benefits from a mild overhaul that brings a refreshed look outside, more standard equipment across the already generously outfitted trim levels, and a new flagship model, the Kona N. The range starts with the SE, which comes with a 147-hp 2.0-liter engine, front-wheel drive, and a new continuously variable transmission. Its standard equipment highlights include Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, an 8-inch touchscreen, and a suite of active driver aids. The next-level SEL gains larger alloy wheels and some handy convenience features such as keyless entry and ignition, remote engine start, and a blind-spot monitoring system.

The midlevel N Line is our preferred starting point because it comes standard with the 195-hp turbo 1.6-liter engine. It's paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, and better exploits the Kona's engaging chassis. All Konas are better when outfitted with optional all-wheel drive, which brings a revised rear suspension that improves both the driving experience and ride comfort. The Limited tops out the regular range, bringing some real luxury to Hyundai's most compact of crossovers. If you still want more, the new Kona N delivers. It adds a turbocharged 2.0-liter for a punchy 276-hp output and gains chassis, styling, and equipment to make the most of its power and justify its higher sticker price. It's a fitting flagship for an appealing range, and the 2022 Hyundai Kona is a strong contender among subcompact crossover SUVs.

All Hyundai Kona years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Hyundai Kona generation from 2018 to 2026

What is new for the 2022 Hyundai Kona?

  • The Kona is available in a variety of new trims, including the N and N Line.
  • The Night, SEL Plus, and Ultimate trims have been discontinued for 2022.
  • Kona trims have been upgraded with Remote Start, Leather & Suede Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, and Harman Kardon Sound as standard equipment this year.
  • Running Boards features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Limited trim now comes with Parking Sensors, Automated Cruise Control, and Navigation System as standard equipment.

2022 Hyundai Kona trims

Curious how Hyundai Kona trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SE:

  • 147-hp, 132-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Rear Defroster
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Side Airbags
  • Cruise Control
  • Cloth Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Rear View Camera
  • View our Hyundai Kona SE inventory

SEL:

Limited:

  • Includes all features available on the SEL
  • 195-hp, 195-lb-ft of torque 1.6L
  • Power Seats
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Parking Sensors
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Sunroofs
  • Leather Seats
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • View our Hyundai Kona Limited inventory

N Line:

N:

  • Includes all features available on the N Line
  • 276-hp, 289-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Head Up Display
  • View our Hyundai Kona N inventory

Hyundai Kona photos

5 reasons to buy the 2022 Hyundai Kona

1. Well-appointed base model

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offers six trim levels, and even the base SE trim is well-equipped. Have a seat behind the wheel and check out the standard eight-inch high-resolution touchscreen with Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® connectivity. You'll also get a 4.2-inch color screen between the gauges. The 2022 Hyundai Kona SE is loaded with tech, including standard driver-assistance features like forward collision avoidance and lane keep assist. All-wheel drive is available at every trim level, including SE.

2. Punchy turbo engine

The 2022 Hyundai Kona has a base 2.0L four-cylinder engine that's no slouch, but look for the available 1.6L four-cylinder engine to transform your drives. Available with N Line and Limited trims, a turbocharger helps the 1.6L engine make 195 hp, which easily scoots the Kona with determination. You'll notice quick shifts and a broad power curve connected to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Looking up a short on-ramp or need to pass a semi? Go for it—the Kona can do it. 

3. Race-inspired N Line

If visual pop is more your style, look for the sporty N Line trim of the 2022 Hyundai Kona. This trim level adds spice, with exclusive 18-inch wheels, upgraded front and rear fascias, and a dual stainless exhaust tip. Inside, you'll get a huge 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, comfy and supportive stitched bucket seats, and aluminum pedals. The N Line trim looks great inside and out, and upscales every touchpoint. 

4. Comfortable cabin

The Kona proves that even the most subcompact SUVs can have a quiet and composed cabin. If you have a long daily commute, you'll love how the 2022 Hyundai Kona absorbs bumps in the road with little noise or feel. Highway tire and wind noise are muted, and the suspension is capable through corners, without the usual drawback of sports car roughness. From the plush road trip-ready seats to the vault-like hushed cabin, the Kona is your on-road sanctuary. 

5. Go longer between fill-ups

With the 2022 Hyundai Kona, you can go longer between gas station visits. Choose the base 2.0L engine or the punchy 1.6L engine for the same EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined fuel economy.

 You'll likely go over a week without filling up, with an EPA-estimated range of 422 miles on a full tank of gas.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.1 out of 5

19 customer reviews

Hyundai Kona features and specs

Curious how Hyundai Kona trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

N Line 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Heated Mirrors
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine

Optional Features

  • Automated Cruise Control
  • Full Roof Rack
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Navigation System
  • Sunroof(s)

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

1.6L

Horsepower

195

Torque (ft-lbs)

195

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

13.2

Wheelbase

102.4"

Overall length

166"

Width

70.9"

Height

62"

Leg room

F 41.5"/R 35.2"

Head room

F 39.6"/R 37.8"

Front tires

P235/45HR18

Rear tires

P235/45HR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2022 Hyundai Kona FAQ

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* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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