2020 Hyundai Kona Pros and Cons: What To Know When Weighing Your Decision
2020 Hyundai Kona by Flash_Auto - CC-BY-SA-4.0
Like many SUV markets, the subcompact SUV segment is fiercely competitive and offers a diverse range of vehicles that balance compact size with SUV utility. Popular models in this class include the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and Toyota C-HR, which just flew off the car lot, thanks to their tech features, styling, and performance. If you’re interested in a subcompact SUV, the Hyundai Kona is worth the consideration.
In a segment where models tend to look very similar, the 2020 Hyundai Kona stands out with its striking style. In addition, this SUV is packed to the brim with great features. The 2020 Hyundai Kona offers a set of features that make it a compelling choice in the subcompact SUV segment, though it comes with its own set of drawbacks.
So for today, we rounded up the 2020 Hyundai Kona pros and cons to help you determine if this subcompact SUV is for you. Let’s get to it.
What We Love: 2020 Hyundai Kona Pros
Below are some of the best qualities of the 2020 Hyundai Kona:
Excellent Safety Ratings
The 2020 Hyundai Kona boasts an impressive safety profile, reflected in its ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). According to the NHTSA, the 2020 Hyundai Kona received an overall safety rating of five out of five stars. This top score is supported by five stars in front and side crash tests and four stars in the rollover test.
Meanwhile, the IIHS also awarded the Kona the highest rating of ‘Good’ in all six crashworthiness tests. Additionally, the Kona received a ‘Superior’ rating for front crash prevention when equipped with the optional pedestrian detection system. The only noted weak point was the standard halogen headlights, which received a ‘Poor’ rating for their illumination capabilities.
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Top-Notch Infotainment System
If in-car entertainment is high on your list, the 2020 Kona has a very intuitive infotainment system. The 2020 Hyundai Kona is equipped with an easy-to-use 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard. It’s designed to be user-friendly, so you can smoothly navigate various options and settings.
For those who prefer a bigger screen, there’s an option to upgrade to an 8-inch display in the higher models. The system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to connect your smartphone. This means you can easily use your favorite apps, find directions, or play music. Plus, the sound quality is widely praised as well.
Punchy Engine
The 2020 Kona offers two engine choices. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It’s not the most exciting engine, but it gets the job done.
However, the turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine truly stands out. It produces a robust 175 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, transmitted through a seven-speed dual-clutch. This turbo engine offers brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in 7.2 seconds with front-wheel drive, and maintains good fuel efficiency.
Wealth of Standard Features
Thanks to its wealth of standard features, opting for a base Kona won’t feel like you’re in a penalty box. This includes key safety technologies like lane keep assist and automatic emergency braking, significantly contributing to safer driving. Additionally, the Kona has features like LED daytime running lights, a rearview camera, and a 3.5-inch instrument cluster display, enhancing visibility and driver information accessibility.
HOW LONG DO HYUNDAI KONAS LAST?
If you’re interested in a Hyundai Kona, it’s helpful to know what you’ll get with your investment. You might wonder - how long do Hyundai Konas last?
Available All-Wheel Drive
The 2020 Hyundai Kona’s all-wheel drive (AWD) option is great for extra grip and stability, especially on slippery roads or uneven paths like snowy or rainy weather. It’s also handy for a bit of off-road adventure. The AWD version comes with a special suspension setup that makes the ride smoother and more comfortable. This makes the Kona a good choice for everyday driving and for times when you want to venture off the beaten path.
What We Don’t Love: 2020 Hyundai Kona Cons
On the flip side of this 2020 Hyundai Kona pros and cons, below are the qualities we didn’t enjoy:
Weak Base Engine
The base engine of the 2020 Hyundai Kona, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, is often criticized for its lackluster performance, especially compared to its rivals. Producing 147 hp, it may feel underpowered, particularly on highways or when quick acceleration is needed. While the Kona’s base engine is sufficient for city driving, it may not satisfy those looking for more responsiveness and vigor, which are typical of some other vehicles in the subcompact SUV class.
Limited Cargo Space
Unfortunately, cargo utility isn’t the best when it comes to the 2020 Kona. The amount of cargo space available in the 2020 Hyundai Kona is somewhat limited compared to its competitors. With the rear seats up, it provides 19.2 cu-ft of space and 45.8 cu-ft with them folded. On the other hand, the Honda HR-V offers significantly more space, with 24.3 cu-ft behind the rear seats and 58.8 cu-ft with the seats down. Similarly, the Subaru Crosstrek provides 20.8 cu-ft of space behind the rear seats, which expands to 55.3 cu-ft with the seats down.
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Unrefined Transmission With Turbocharged Engine
The 2020 Hyundai Kona comes with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. While this combination gets the job done, it may not be as polished or enjoyable as some drivers may expect from a dual-clutch system. When compared to the more advanced transmissions found in certain competitors, the Kona’s gearbox may seem a bit lackluster in terms of its smoothness and responsiveness.
2020 Hyundai Kona Pros and Cons: Is This Subcompact SUV for You?
That wraps up our guide on the 2020 Hyundai Kona pros and cons. As such, the 2020 Hyundai Kona is a mixed bag in the crowded subcompact SUV arena. Its vibrant design and efficient fuel economy are major draws, alongside a generous array of standard features, especially in tech and safety. However, its base engine lacks punch, and the cargo space is on the smaller side for its class.
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