Once again, the 2023 Hyundai Kona is there in a few varieties. First, there is the base version of the subcompact crossover with a four-cylinder engine. Then, the performance edition is available as well. It is the Kona N (don’t mix it with the N-Line) with 275 horsepower under the hood. Fans of electric vehicles will also find Kona EV at dealerships with the same performance sheet for the 2023 season. In the future, the vehicle is about to increase the range.
In this review, we will try to analyze all versions and what to expect from each of them. The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover and there are a lot of rivals available. Kia Niro is one of the names we can compare to the Kona. It also comes with the standard edition, hybrid, PHEV and EV. The main difference is the N Performance configuration. The new Kona is going to keep the price as one of the strong sides. The MSRP should start at around $21,500.
2023 Hyundai Kona N Upgrades Performance
The base version of the crossover is equipped with a 2.0-liter engine. A four-cylinder mill can produce 147 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. That is not bad for a subcompact model, whose rivals are not creating so much juice. Front-wheel drive is standard and this combo returns 30/35 mpg. It makes Kona one of the most efficient subcompact crossovers in the market. An all-wheel drive is optional. Besides extra cash paid for the AWD, it also consumes more fuel. In both configurations, a six-speed auto transmission sends power to wheels.
The vehicle was also available with a turbo-four engine before. A 1.6-liter engine can crack 195 hp and 195 lb-ft, and many saw this one as the Kona N model. But, it is not that one. Engineers updated the system, that was previously delivering 175 ponies. A new gearbox is a 7-speed DCT. This turbo-four is also available with FWD and AWD.
The top of the range version is the 2023 Hyundai Kona N. A turbo-four engine is tuned to burst 275 horsepower and 290 lb-ft, return 21/27 mpg, and sprints 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds. A power router is an 8-speed case. Of course, the Kona N is going to be a lot more than just performance, but it will determine its exterior and interior styling.
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric Range and Specs
Besides the lineup of conventional drivetrains with internal combustion, there is a modern and futuristic configuration. The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is equipped with a 64-kWh battery that delivers 201 hp. The range of the crossover is 258 miles. The company is always improving the recharging system and it takes less time to restore the battery. A quick 30-minute charge will refill 80 percent of the electric motor. Home outlets need more time.
Which Model is the Best?
We already mentioned centerpieces of two top packages. Definitely, a mighty engine and electric units are the best things about the 2023 Hyundai Kona N and EV. Still, those vehicles will also bring a unique set of features and options. For example, the Kona N costs $6,000 more than the Limited edition. Most of the investment goes to a high-output engine. Besides that, the N Performance package adds unique color options. An electric model is using standard trim levels, SEL and Limited. We are not going into details, but the contrasting roof is our favorite feature. Six colors are available for the Kona electric.
The base offer is the SE and highlights are an 8-inch screen with smartphone services. It will cost just under $21,500. The SEL is a $1,800 upgrade with an advanced infotainment system (BlueLink), improved safety (blind-spot monitor), and higher quality materials in the cabin. The N-Line is an old name in the lineup, and many are still mixing it with the N Performance version. The N Line is there to enhance the visual appearance. Limited model is using leather seats, more infotainment and safety options, and a 10-inch infotainment screen. All that is available for $28,000, while the N Line can save you about $2,000. Electric Kona and N Performance are priced at $34,000. It is up to you which of those configurations suit better.
