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Introduction:

To help members understand the latest automotive technology so they can purchase vehicles that best suit their needs, the Automobile Club of Southern California's Automotive Research Center (ARC) began testing and reviewing vehicles over a decade ago

For the 2025 edition, we include testing and ranking cars and light trucks with the latest technology, including having at least one advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) feature. In addition to vehicle evaluation, the guide covers a number of pertinent automotive topics in detail—for example, the latest advanced safety features, how to properly maintain your vehicle, and new vehicles coming to market in the next few years.

2024 Hyundai Kona Limited

Vehicle Type: Small suv Gasoline
89
 overall score
Category Ranking: 15

Vehicle Price

Base Price: $32,150
Price as Tested: $34,695

Fuel Information

Fuel Type: Regular
Fuel Capacity (gal): 13.2
EPA City mpg24
EPA Highway mpg29
EPA Combined mpg26

Advanced Safety Features

  • Adaptive Cruise Control [O]
  • Advanced Headlights [S]
  • Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
  • Blind-Spot Warning [S]
  • Driver Monitoring [S]
  • Forward-Collision Warning [S]
  • Lane-Departure Warning [S]
  • Lane-Keeping Assistance [S]
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Warning [S]
  • Reverse Automatic Emergency Braking [S]
  • [S] Standard, [O] Optional
NHTSA Rating:

Overall Observations

The compact Kona crossover was introduced in 2017 and redesigned inside and out for 2024. The latest version is larger and its exterior is more streamlined, but the Kona’s main focus remains practicality. Two engines are available, depending on the trim level. Our top-trim Limited version came with a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that generates 190 hp. Unfortunately, it delivered only average power, exhibited some throttle lag, and was noisy under load. The Kona’s steering didn’t fare much better; it felt disconnected and lacked feedback. Ride quality was decent over smooth surfaces but turned bumpy on broken pavement. That being said, the Kona has several stellar qualities. First and foremost is its spacious cabin, which provides plenty of room for all passengers. The infotainment system operates intuitively, making use of knobs and hard keys, and the steering-wheel controls are easy to operate. Like most Hyundais, the Kona has a substantial list of standard advanced safety and convenience features, including LED headlights, a driver-monitoring system, and a 12.3-inch touch-screen display. A few more minor complaints, though: The imitation leather material on the doors and dashboard looks cheap; the wide rear roof pillars compromise side visibility; the center-console storage space is small; and fuel economy (26 mpg combined) is disappointing.

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Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Great passenger space for a small vehicle
  • Intuitive infotainment system
  • Good value; lots of features for the money

Cons

  • Underpowered drivetrain
  • Disconnected steering feel
  • Subpar fuel economy
  • Restricted side visibility

Vehicle Specifications

Model year tested: 2024
Number of passengers (F/R): 2/3
Curb weight (lbs): 3505.0
Exterior L / W / H (in): 171.3 / 71.9 / 63.4
Wheelbase (in): 104.7
Number of air bags: 7
Warranty (months/miles): 60/60,000
Tire manufacturer and model: Kumho Majesty 9
Front and rear tire size: 235/45 R19
Max towing capacity (lbs): Not recommended
Headlight type: LED
Transmission type: Auto 8-speed
Drivetrain type: All wheel
Engine/motor: 1.6L I4 turbo
Engine horsepower @ RPM: 190 @ 6,000

Test Data

Test Vehicle Scores

Advanced Safety Features:

9.70

Fuel Efficiency:

2.73

EPA Emissions Score:

5.00

Acceleration:

3.43

Braking:

7.68
Performance Handling: 5.25
Everyday Drivability: 7.21
Infotainment Usability: 7.67
Quality and Drivability: 6.83

Ride Quality:

6.71

Interior Size:

5.20

Easy of Entry and Exit:

6.71

Visibility:

7.22

Interior Noise:

5.42

Cargo Capacity:

2.30
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