Hyundai Kona gets a makeover for 2021

Back when it was first introduced, the Hyundai Kona was the subject of both praise and negative criticism thanks to its unique styling which was a bit unusual at that time but has so far become a trend. Well it looks like it will be harder to criticize the Kona’s looks now as Hyundai has just fully revealed the all-new updated version, including a sporty N Line variant.

The facelifted Kona was first teased last month and now we get to see the whole vehicle. The updates give the subcompact crossover a sleeker, sportier and more sophisticated exterior. They also put it in line with the rest of the Hyundai lineup with the company’s Sensuous Sportiness global design identity which already found itself first on the Sonata midsize sedan, Elantra compact sedan, and the Sante Fe midsize crossover, as well as other upcoming models such as the next generation Tucson compact crossover and Custo minivan.

Most of the changes are on the outside. The 2021 Hyundai Kona gets a new and wider front grille, sleeker looking LED daytime running lights, new skid plate, and new vertically oriented aerodynamic inlets that improve air flow. The headlights also get a completely different design and there’s a pair of projector fog lights on the lower bumper. At the back, changes are more subtle. The overall rear design still reflects that of the front fascia but with a more modern appearance. 17 and 18-inch wheel designs are new for 2021 but the 16-inch wheel design will be carried over, as well as the 16 and 18-inch designs from the Hybrid version. The Kona is also 40 mm longer than the pre-facelift model.

Changes to the Kona’s interior are also not too major, the overall design remains familiar to the current model we have. New features include an electronic parking brake which replaces the old mechanical hand brake, and a new 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Those without the new system will be equipped with a 7-inch display audio system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 10.25-inch AVN screen is also available.

Under the hood are different powertrain choices. The top-spec powertrain option is a 1.6-liter T-GDi Smartstream engine paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. It produces 195 hp. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system is also available paired to a 1.6-liter Smartstream diesel engine. This produces 134 hp and is available paired with either a 7-speed DCT or the company’s 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT). The 1.0-liter Smartstream gasoline engine that produces 118 hp can also be equipped with the 48-V mild-hybrid system as well. 

For now, all these specifications are for the European market. The all-new Kona N Line and new Kona will arrive in showrooms towards the end of the year, while the new Kona Hybrid will follow beginning of 2021. The new Kona Electric, which will carry over the powertrain and electric driving range of the current version, will be revealed soon.