Hyundai Motor Company has just unveiled the 2022 edition of its Kona subcompact crossover, and the updated exterior styling is immediately apparent. The addition of a new, performance-focused N Line variant spruces up the Kona lineup as well.
The 2019 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year returns with a bold, progressive design that’s a drastic departure from the model it replaces, especially at the front. Instead of the hexagonal grille of old, we get an hour-glass shaped front façade due to the enlarged front end air intake in the lower bumper. The hourglass effect is further emphasized by the wide, thin LED daytime running lights.
Overall, the redesigned front end adds 40mm to the length of the new Kona compared to the previous model.
That said, the side body retains the muscular and sculpted shape of the outgoing Kona, but the sporty wedge-shaped silhouette is much more nuanced, thanks to the improved visual uniformity between the shoulder creases and the sharper, cleaner, more harmonious front end.
At the rear, the new taillights feature horizontally stretched graphics that mirror the unique identity of the front-end light design. The new rear bumper, which also follows the protective armor concept of the front and sides, also uses a contrasting material.
The new 2022 Hyundai Kona comes adds five new exterior colors to the paint choices, namely: Surfy Blue, Dive in Jeju, Ignite Flame, Cyber Grey, and Misty Jungle. These are in addition to five existing colors, including Phantom Black, Chalk White, Dark Knight, Pulse Red and Galactic Grey. Every color can be combined with the Phantom Black two-tone roof. The two-tone roof also comes with matching mirror housings.
At the top of the range is an enhanced 1.6-liter T-GDI Smartstream engine with a 7-speed dual clutch transmission that delivers 134hp and 324Nm of torque. This powerful, sporty powertrain is available in both two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive variations.
For increased fuel efficiency, the new KONA will be equipped with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This technology is applied to the 1.6-liter Smartstream diesel engine as standard and is available with a seven-speed DCT (7DCT) or six-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (6iMT) as well as optional four-wheel drive. The 1.0-liter T-GDI Smartstream gas engine with 118hp can be equipped with 48-volt mild hybrid technology and 6iMT as an option.
The N Line Kona distinguishes itself with signature fascia, body color claddings, enlarged rear spoiler, and design accents specific to the N Line range.
The 2022 Kona is expected to go on sale early next year in Europe and North America. No word yet on when it will make its way to the South east Asian market, so for now, car shoppers will have to make do with the 2020 Hyundai Kona currently on sale here.
Photo/s from Hyundai
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