The 2025 Hyundai Kona: What We Know So Far
Here's what we know so far about the 2025 Hyundai Kona: its projected release date, what's new with the subcompact SUV, how much it will cost, and more.
As Hyundai’s popular subcompact SUV enters its second year of the second generation, the 2025 Kona brings subtle yet meaningful updates to both its gas-powered and electric variants. As such, if you’re hoping for a major redesign, you’re going to be disappointed. With that said, from new trim levels to enhanced features across the lineup, let’s explore what the 2025 Hyundai Kona has to offer and what you can expect.
2025 Hyundai Kona Release Date
While Hyundai hasn’t announced an exact release date, the 2025 Kona is expected to arrive at dealerships in late 2024 or early 2025. This timing aligns with Hyundai’s typical annual model rollout schedule.
What’s New?
Since it’s a carry-over model, the 2025 Kona offers minor updates including:
- Two new trims for the gas model: SEL Convenience and N Line S
- N Line trim added to the electric lineup
- 64-color ambient lighting expanded to more trims
- Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability now standard on all electric models
- New Ultimate Red Metallic exterior color option
- LED interior lighting for SEL and N Line trims of the Electric model
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2025 Hyundai Kona Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Kona sees a modest price increase across the board. The gas model now starts at $25,745, while the electric version begins at $34,270 (both prices include the $1,395 destination charge, which itself has increased by $60).
ICE-powered Kona trims and pricing:
- SE: $25,745
- SEL: $27,095
- SEL Convenience: $29,295 (New trim)
- N Line S: $30,745 (New trim)
- N Line: $32,295
- Limited: $33,295
Kona Electric trims and pricing:
- SE: $34,270
- SEL: $38,270
- N Line: $39,670 (New trim)
- Limited: $42,445
All-wheel drive remains a $1,500 option for gas-powered models, providing added traction for those in more challenging climates.
The introduction of the SEL Convenience trim for the gas model eliminates the need for buyers to order the SEL with a separate $2,200 convenience package. This streamlined approach can mean more value for consumers.
The new N Line S grade for the gas model and the N Line trim for the electric version caters to those seeking a sportier aesthetic without the full performance upgrades of the higher-tier N Line models.
2025 Hyundai Kona Performance
The 2025 Kona carries over its powertrain options from the previous year, maintaining a balance between efficiency and performance:
Gas models:
- Base engine: 2.0-liter four-cylinder (147 hp, 132 lb-ft of torque)
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
- Optional engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (190 hp, 195 lb-ft of torque)
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
The base engine, while not particularly powerful, offers adequate performance for city driving and commuting. Meanwhile, the CVT helps maximize fuel efficiency, with EPA ratings of up to 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway for front-wheel-drive models.
The turbocharged engine, available on N Line and Limited trims, provides a significant oomph in performance. While official 0-60 mph times for the 2025 model haven’t been released, the previous generation’s turbocharged variant achieved this sprint in approximately 7.5 seconds. This puts it in line with some of the sportier offerings in the subcompact SUV segment.
Electric models:
- SE: 48.6-kWh battery, front-motor (133 hp, 188 lb-ft of torque)
- SEL, N Line, Limited: 64.8-kWh battery, front motor (201 hp, 291 lb-ft of torque)
The electric Kona models offer instant torque characteristics of EVs, providing peppy acceleration, especially in city driving scenarios. The more powerful variants with the larger battery pack offer performance comparable to the turbocharged gas models, with the added benefit of zero emissions.
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2025 Hyundai Kona EV Range and Charging
The Kona Electric offers varying range estimates depending on the trim:
- SE: 200 miles
- SEL and Limited: 261 miles
- N Line: 230 miles (reduced due to larger 19-inch wheels)
These range figures are competitive within the electric subcompact SUV segment. The 261-mile range of the SEL and Limited trims, in particular, should alleviate range anxiety for many potential buyers, offering enough range for most daily driving needs and even some longer trips.
Charging times remain consistent with the previous year’s model:
- DC fast charging: 10% to 80% in about 43 minutes
- Level 2 (240V) charging: Full charge in approximately 7 hours
The addition of standard vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability across all-electric Kona trims is a significant upgrade. This feature allows the Kona Electric to serve as a power source for external devices or even provide emergency power to a home during outages.
2025 Hyundai Kona Interior and Cargo Space
The 2025 Kona’s interior maintains its posh and modern design with some notable enhancements:
- Dual 12.3-inch displays are standard across all trims
- 64-color ambient lighting now available on more trims
- N Line models feature sport seats with faux leather and suede upholstery
- Rear legroom: 36.4 to 38.2 inches (varies by trim)
- Cargo capacity: 25.5 cubic feet behind rear seats, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet with seats folded
The Kona’s interior dimensions are competitive for its class. The rear legroom, while not class-leading, is adequate for most passengers. The cargo capacity is particularly impressive, offering more space than some larger compact SUVs.
The dual 12.3-inch displays create a premium feel, rivaling the technology offerings of more expensive vehicles. The expansion of ambient lighting options to more trims adds a touch of customizable luxury to the cabin.
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2025 Hyundai Kona Tech and Safety Features
The Kona is praised for its wealth of standard tech features, and the 2025 version looks to be no different with offerings like:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Available Bose premium audio system
- OTA update capability
- Digital key functionality on select trims
- Wi-Fi hotspot on higher trims
Safety features include:
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian/cyclist detection
- Lane-keeping assist
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
- Available Highway Driving Assist (adaptive cruise control with lane centering)
- Available Blind-Spot View Monitor (on Limited trim)
The Kona is known for its strong safety ratings, with the gas model earning a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS for the 2024 model year. The 2025 model is expected to maintain this high safety standard.
2025 Hyundai Kona: What to Expect?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona builds upon its predecessor’s strengths with thoughtful updates and new trim options. As a carryover model, you can expect to get more of the good stuff that made the Kona a huge hit such as cool styling, plenty of standard tech, and spacious interior.
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