Hyundai Kona Compact SUV Grows Up for 2024

Hyundai’s 2024 Kona sub-compact SUV continues to evolve. This year, Hyundai added six inches for more cargo space and legroom for backseat passengers. Although it's a little pricier, it remains an affordable crossover that is fuel-efficient and fun to drive. Several other upgrades this year enhance the style and performance of the Kona, including a 12.3-inch display, redesigned front seats, optional heated and ventilated seats, a redesigned center console, and more storage space. The rear seats can also be folded to create additional storage space, making it perfect for weekend trips or family hauling. I tested the race-inspired Kona N Line, distinguished by its interior and exterior design and performance.  The exterior is jazzed up with a single light bar and a new grille across the front. The red taillight across the back and a new rear spoiler add to its sporty look. Additional body cladding, bumpers, and 19-inch alloy wheels further enhance the visual appeal of the 2024 Kona N Line. It also comes with sports seats. Power: The Hyundai Kona packs a punch with the same exhilarating engines as the previous generation models. I felt a power surge when I put my foot on the accelerator. Engines include a 2.0-liter four-cylinder generating 147 horsepower and a continuously variable automatic transmission in the SE and SEL models. Meanwhile, the N Line and Limited models have a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder with 190 horsepower. The previous seven-speed dual-clutch transmission was replaced with an eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard on the Kona, $1500 gets you all-wheel drive. Whether merging onto the highway or navigating city streets, the Hyundai Kona N Line provided a thrilling and responsive driving experience. Models/Price: Not just its size, but the price has increased by $2,000 over last year. The Kona SE starts at $24,000, the N Line at $30.650, and the Limited edition with leather-trimmed seats and a Surround-View Monitor starts at $31,650 MSRP. Fuel Economy: The 2024 Kona offers a variety of trim levels with varying fuel ranges. The 1.6-liter engine with FWD gets 26 city/32 highway mpg, while the 2.0-liter engine with AWD averages 24 city/29 highway. The Hyundai Kona also has a long-range electric model with 129 city/103 highway MPGe. For a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, visit www.decisivemedia.net to find updated car-buying tips and reviews on the latest new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.