Hyundai Motor Company has just unveiled its new generation KONA 2023 compact SUV. Meanwhile, the current Hyundai Kona on sale in Malaysia arrived as a facelift model in April 2021 and its older sibling was launched locally late 2020.
In the mean time, despite being a rather good car, its Malaysian debut was partly overshadowed by the launch of the hotly anticipated Proton X50, but mainly down to the fact that a heavily revised version has already been launched in other markets already.
Arriving just six months into the sale of the original model the current Kona is selling below expectations and its big brother Ioniq 5 is selling faster than it can be delivered.
Interestingly this latest model will be available in four variants, including all-electric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), internal combustion engine (ICE) and sporty N Line, with a universal architecture for all and unique styling for each.
With the all-new KONA 2023, Hyundai Motor has brought its commitment to sustainable mobility and technology-led design thinking to expand its EV offerings which has been innovated and advanced by the award-winning IONIQ lineup, while also meeting the diverse mobility needs of its customers with a variety of powertrains.
The all-new Hyundai KONA 2023 has evolved into a larger yet still urban-centric SUV with bolder styling that conveys a more dynamic road presence and driver-centric interior.
To provide maximized ‘living space’ for customers, the all-new model grew to 4,355 mm in length, which is 150 mm longer from the previous generation, based on the EV variant. It also gained 25 mm in width and 60 mm in wheelbase length compared to the outgoing model without losing any of its iconic design identity.
The all-new Hyundai KONA’s clean, distinctive nose characterizes the front section’s pure volume, which contributes to the model’s smooth aerodynamic performance.
The pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp, which is pixelated on the EV variant, marking the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp that adds to the EV’s distinctive character. KONA’s use of Parametric Pixels also propagates a distinctive design element from Hyundai’s popular EV lineup.
Despite its futuristic appearance, the all-new KONA 2023 never lets one forget that it’s an SUV. Its dynamic styling is accentuated with boldly sculpted wheel arch cladding that incorporates headlamps and tail-lamps, reinforcing KONA’s robust underpinning.
The all-new KONA is replete with parametric surfaces. The sharp diagonal crease of the sides connects the satin chrome molding from the belt line to the spoiler, creating a contour that wraps around the entire vehicle.
The rear features another Seamless Horizon Lamp as well as a high-mounted stop lamp (HMSL) that is seamlessly integrated within the satin chrome molding of the spoiler.
There are several styling variations between the powertrain variants. The EV gets pixel graphic details on the intake grille and rear bumper, a pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheel design, black embracing line and optional black side mirrors and roof.
The ICE and HEV share a bold and rugged bumper and skid plate design, and black wheel arch cladding. The N Line boasts optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper to emphasize a lower stance, distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels, twin muffler and silver side skirt.
The all-new Hyundai KONA’s larger interior ‘living space’ provides practical features and an evolved in-car experience to accommodate diverse lifestyles. The EV-derived universal architecture accommodates a sporty layout with floating horizontal C-Pad to emphasize KONA’s slim and wide interior, providing a versatile space for driver and passengers.
The 12.3-inch dual wide displays and floating module impart a high-tech impression. Ambient lighting enhances the user experience and convenience. With the column type shift-by-wire relocated from the center console to behind the steering wheel, it provides an uncluttered layout and additional space for belongings in the central tunnel.
The second-row Curve-less Bench Seat reinforces KONA’s 21st century urban design aesthetic. Behind the second row is a maximized cargo space.
