Tweaking the 2025 Hyundai Kona N Line Crossover

The 2025 Hyundai Kona N Line, a sporty subcompact crossover, enters its second generation with more style, a turbocharged engine, and a few performance-inspired tweaks. Like other Hyundai vehicles, it has standard high-tech and safety features.

Exterior: Hyundai doubles down on the Kona N Line style with an aggressive front fascia, blacked-out trim, new LED running lights, dual exhaust tips, sportier bumpers, and a more athletic stance. It also adds unique 19-inch alloy wheels.

However, the Kona has a lower stance and ride height that may not attract those seeking a higher ride height and view of the road. Despite that, it’s an appealing compact SUV with sporty performance.

Interior: The interior cabin is kept in Hyundai’s tradition of offering modern, high-tech equipment at a lower price. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a dual 12.3-inch infotainment display and digital cluster, leather-wrapped steering wheel, sport seats, metal pedals, and ambient lights with 64 colors. It also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose premium audio system. However, the Kona is not a luxury model, so hard plastic materials are still prevalent. The rear seats also have more space than the previous generation.

Models/Pricing: The 2025 Hyundai Kona lineup offers six trim levels that include the base SE ($26,000), SEL ($27,350), SEL Convenience ($29,550), N Line S ($31,000), N Line ($32,550), and the top-of-line Limited ($33,550). Visit Hyundai.com for more details.

Power/Performance: Under the hood, the 2025 Kona N Line is powered by an entry-level 2.0-liter engine that generates 147 horsepower and a continuously variable transmission. The N Line uses a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic and available all-wheel drive that improves traction on city and highway pavements. In addition, the N Line’s suspension has been retuned to improve maneuverability and handling on rough roads.

Tech and Safety: The Kona N Line comes well-equipped with the Hyundai SmartSense safety suite that includes Forward Collision Warning, Lane-Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and a Driver Attention Monitor, usually found in luxury vehicles.

Fuel Economy: The EPA rates the N Line AWD and turbocharged model at 24 city/29 highway mpg. The base model returns up to 29 city/34 highway mpg.

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