What's New
After receiving updates last year, the 2023 Hyundai Kona arrives as a carryover model. The only noteworthy changes for the new model year include standard blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit warning.
The 2023 Kona doesn’t need any changes to be competitive in the segment, as the Kona continues to be a value-forward option that’s enjoyable to drive and has distinctive styling.
Choosing Your Hyundai Kona
The 2023 Kona will be available in the gas-powered lineup and as the all-electric Kona Electric. The gas-powered Kona is available in four trims: SE, SEL, N Line, and Limited. Prices range from $23,285 to $30,095 (including destination).
The Kona Electric will be available in SE, SEL, and Limited trims. Pricing for the Kona Electric ranges from $34,845 to $42,845. Note that the Kona EV no longer qualifies for a tax credit after the Inflation Reduction Act was signed because the final assembly takes place outside the U.S.
Engine Choices
Hyundai offers the gas-powered Kona with two different engines, while the all-electric Kona has its own unique powertrain. The base engine comes with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while the turbocharged engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
For most drivers, the standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine offers plenty of performance, while the available turbocharged engine delivers far better pep with a minimal hit to fuel economy. The only downside is that the turbocharged engine is only available on the N Line and Limited trims, which are large upgrades over lower trims. FWD is standard, while AWD is available for $1,500.
For drivers looking to make the switch to an electric vehicle, the Kona Electric is a great option with a 150-kW electric motor and a 64-kWh battery pack. While 201 hp might not sound like a lot, the electric powertrain delivers immediate thrust to feel quicker than the available gas-powered engines.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (Combined) |
2.0L 4-Cylinder | 147 hp | 132 lb-ft | 32 mpg (FWD) 30 mpg (AWD) |
1.6L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 195 hp | 195 lb-ft | 32 mpg (FWD) 29 mpg (AWD) |
150-kW Electric Motor | 201 hp | 291 lb-ft | 120 MPGe / 258 miles of range |
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
The Kona is a subcompact SUV that can seat up to five people. The SUV offers up to 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and a total of 45.8 cubic feet of total cargo space.
Safety Features
There are some new safety features for 2023. The Kona comes standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, a driver drowsiness monitor, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and safe exit warning.
Highway Driving Assist and adaptive cruise control with stop and go are only available on the Limited trim, though they’re standard.
Connectivity
An eight-inch touchscreen comes standard on most Konas. The infotainment system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, six audio speakers, and two USB ports.
The SEL is the first to be available with the 10.25-inch touchscreen through the Convenience Package that’s priced at $2,400. The package also adds navigation, voice recognition, and a wireless charging pad. The trim comes standard with an HD Radio and satellite radio. The larger touchscreen is only available with wired smartphone connectivity.
2023 Hyundai Kona SE – MSRP From $23,285
While the base SE doesn’t come with a lot of upscale touches, it has a strong list of standard features that includes 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and automatic headlights. The cabin has cloth upholstery, a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat, and a 4.2-inch display in the gauge cluster.
2023 Hyundai Kona SEL – MSRP From $25,095
The $1,810 cost to upgrade from the SE to the SEL trim brings a lot more niceties. The SEL comes with 17-inch wheels, roof rails, keyless entry, push-button start, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.
The $2,400 Convenience Package brings a power sunroof, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control.
2023 Hyundai Kona N Line – MSRP From $28,995
Consumers seeking a sporty Kona should look at the N Line. It’s the first in the lineup to come with the turbocharged engine. To match the extra power, the N Line also gets a unique body kit for a more aggressive look.
In addition to the turbocharged engine, the N Line gets 18-inch wheels, special cloth upholstery, and all of the equipment from the Convenience Package.
2023 Hyundai Kona Limited – MSRP From $30,095
With features like leather upholstery, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, rugged body cladding, ambient interior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a universal garage door opener, the Limited is the most upscale Kona available.
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric – MSRP From $34,845
The Kona Electric comes similarly equipped to the gas-powered model. The Kona Electric SE starts off with cloth upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Stepping up to the SEL trim nets LED interior lights, a sunroof, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and Hyundai’s digital key.
LED exterior lighting, automatic high-beam assist, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a Harman Kardon audio system, a heated steering wheel, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror are only available on the Limited trim.
Compare Kona Trims Side-By-Side
Thanks to more standard safety features, lower trims 2023 Hyundai Kona are more attractive than last year. While we prefer the extra performance the turbo engine brings, we think the SEL trim with the Convenience Package stands out as the best choice. The SEL trim is also the one that offers the best value in the Kona Electric’s lineup.