New Hyundai Kona Takes Pole Position In Cute Ute Segment

Like a breathtaking dream sequence… waves of small car-based SUVs are washing over the American landscape. While US sedans have slipped to 6 percent of total sales, small SUVs — like a recent Hyundai Kona test drive — already represent 3.6 percent of the total US sales and are growing rapidly.

A year in the Hyundai line-up, the Kona rounds out the South Korean car-maker’s SUV stable which includes 3 variations of the enormously popular Sante Fe, the just released in California NEXO Hydrogen Fuel Cell Crossover, and the 3rd generation Tucson.

The Hyundai Kona maximizes the value of its lesser size and high-strength lightweight build with combined city EPA highway mileage ratings of 27 MPG, and a base price under $20,000, without sacrificing engineering precision, ride quality or overall durability. The relatively modest 1.6 liter 4 cylinder plant is turbo boosted to 175 HP which gives it the Kona kick!  

This entry level Kona makes the most of the evolved Hyundai design cues including complex character lines and aggressive styling led by distinctive jewel-like front grille and lighting, projecting a much larger and more impressive presence.