Bigger isn’t always better, especially in the SUV world. While medium to full-size vehicles dominate the market with engine power and versatility, the 2025 Hyundai KONA proves that great things can come in smaller — and more affordable — packages, too. It rivals many of its larger counterparts with a 1.6L turbocharged engine that delivers an exciting performance and precise handling.
The latest KONA is a carryover of its 2024 model, but it features a few enhancements that improve its sporty aesthetic. Key improvements include an upgraded grille, aggressive front and rear bumpers, and a sculpted hood. Also new for 2025, a fresh N Line S trim joins the lineup, along with an all-electric variant for eco-conscious buyers. Here’s what makes the 2025 Hyundai KONA stand out in the subcompact SUV category.
A Sporty, Futuristic Appeal
The Hyundai KONA features changes that distinguish it from the compact SUV you might remember from previous years. It boasts a futuristic exterior, highlighted by a slightly tweaked front wing and an improved grille that creates a subtle resemblance to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV. Hard to miss, the roof-mounted lights and heated side mirrors with LED turn signals add to the KONA’s commanding road presence.
Depending on trim level, the 2025 KONA features 17- to 19-inch wheels and a ground clearance of 8.3 inches for off-road duties. It retains the roof rails and active grille shutters, and its tailgate is power-operated, offering more convenience for owners. Standard paint options remain the same, but there’s an available Ultimate Red Metallic hue with a black roof on the N Line trim.
Turbocharged for Optimal Performance
The Hyundai KONA is equipped with an aspirated 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that delivers 147 hp – a solid output that makes a statement in the subcompact segment. Yet, it gets better; for a few extra bucks, buyers looking for a more spirited driving experience can cop the N Line or Limited trim and unlock up to 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque on the available 1.6L turbocharged engine. Quicker than many of its class competitors, the new 2025 KONA achieves the 60mph mark in 7.5 to 7.8 seconds.
Front-wheel drive and continuously variable transmission (CVT) come standard on the Hyundai KONA, but the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, available across all trim levels, delivers a punchier performance. Higher trims also get an upgraded 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides better handling on slick surfaces. The MPG rating is an average of 29/34/31 city/highway/combined on FWD drivetrains. Owners of higher trims with AWD and more powerful engine configurations should expect slightly lower fuel efficiency.
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Roomy Cabin with A Modern Feel
As you step into the KONA, you’re greeted by a modern ambience, starting with a streamlined dashboard and posh leatherette seat coverings on higher trims. Front seats are heated, rear seats split 60/40, and the driver gets a 6-way adjustable power seat. The leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a comfortable grip and is equipped with audio and cruise control buttons for easy access. Owners will find the clear 12.3-inch digital display both stylish and convenient to use, and there’s an 8-speaker audio system that completes the immersive cabin experience.
The 2025 Hyundai KONA interior feels open and spacious, even for tall occupants. It boasts comfortable legroom (41.7 cubic ft and 39.2 cubic ft) for front and rear passengers respectively. With the seats in use, it offers 25.5 cubic ft of cargo space – enough for daily use but slightly behind most competitors in the subcompact segment. However, dropping the rear seats unveils an impressive 63.7 cubic ft of cargo volume, which exceeds what most rivals provide. Plus, the center console contains two cupholders and storage space for small and medium-sized items.
A Haven for the Tech-Savvy Driver
For the new KONA model, Hyundai stepped up the game with a host of interactive tech and safety features that get better with each successive trim level. All versions come with a 4.2-inch LCD information display, wireless charging, and a SiriusXM satellite radio. Apple Car Play and Android Auto integrations ensure smooth smartphone connectivity, and there’s Bluelink+, a feature that helps owners remotely secure their car. Also, there is an array of standard safety features, including emergency auto braking and lane keep assist while select higher trims get curve control and the surround-view monitor.
Trims and Pricing
The Hyundai 2025 KONA brings a unique sporty edge to the subcompact SUV segment in six different trim levels. In addition to the standard four trim levels carried over from the 2024 model, SEL Convenience now stands alone as a trim rather than an SEL variant, and a new N Line S trim joins the lineup. Hyundai quotes $25,500 as the starting price for the base trim, while the Limited trim starts at $31,000, but we expect slight price variations based on location.
Lower trims can be guilty of slow response on the highway, but the N Line and Limited trims offer a thrilling performance that rivals bigger SUVs. For buyers keen on fuel efficiency, the SEL Convenience trim powered by a 2.0L engine provides the best value.
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2025 Hyundai KONA Vs. Rivals
Hyundai KONA faces competition from similarly-priced models such as Honda H-RV, Nissan Kicks, and Kia Seltos but wins almost every contest, regardless of the metric. For instance, it leads the class with impressive room for both cargo and passengers, while the Kia Seltos comes a distant second with 62.8 cubic ft of total cargo space.
The KONA’s standard power output falls short by a mile when pitched against bigger rivals, but the equation changes with the introduction of the 1.6L turbocharged engine. Above all, the 2025 Hyundai KONA’s modern design and suite of tech features make it a strong choice for buyers looking for pomp and style at an accessible price point.
