Local dealer got their first of the 2024 Konas, an Abyss Black NLine AWD. Since I have learned a long time ago that product photography can be deceptive, I went over and took a look. My thoughts:
Overall, very sharp looking iteration of the previous design. Except for the front view. I won't say ugly, but very different. Based on how it looks in good light, I would say color is going to make appearance differences somewhat significant. The full width light bar across the top of the facia is a bit odd looking but should really make the vehicle stand out at night. And, in my area with its idiot drivers, visibility to other drivers is a key feature. The nose is sort of a love it / hate it / this will take some getting used to sort of thing. I guess the closest comparison is on the 22-23 year model with most trims having a lot of two-tone color on the nose, but the N having more body color on the nose. While a fairly simple difference, it makes quite a visual difference.
Size-wise, think baby Tucson. A bit bigger than the previous, but smaller that a Tucson. It looks taller than the previous, but I haven't checked the actual dimensions. The rear and side views in real life look better than the photos.
Features are really nice. We own a 2023 Tucson SEL w/Convenience Pkg and a 2023 Kona N. I have often wished the KN had some of the features from the Tucson and the new Kona does. It almost seems Hyundai was actually listening to its customers when developing the content for this car. The backseat does have more room, both leg and (it appears) width. Fabrics are nice, and the Limited version will get HTex (or whatever they call it) synthetic leather. If you haven't seen this material, check out one of the higher trim levels of the Tucson. It does look good. It has the powered rear lift (like Tucson) which is a feature that seemed excessive to me until I had one. Also, gas lifts on the hood, no more stick support.
The absence of a shifter in the console seems odd since that is where all manufacturers have put it for the last several years. But, it the old days, it was on the column and now is back, though just a smallish little lever low and on the right side of the steering column. This does add more usability to the console spaces. Dash layout has a real "cool" factor. All the information laid out in panoramic fashion, but easy to spot and interpret. I am still not big on "all cars must have a sun roof" (see central Texas summers) but I guess this one is as good as any. Overall opinion of the interior is that I think the market will like the changes. More room, better look/feel, very high tech impression.
The vehicle was not available for a test drive, but I did speak with a trusted rep who had driven it. His opinion was that it felt a bit underpowered and not like other 1.6T models he had driven. He also noted that while this vehicle is the true 8spd automatic (here again, Tucson feature) being an AWD model did add weight to an already heavier Kona. But as the vehicle only had like four miles on it, I would take any performance opinions with a grain of salt.
One of the things that drew me to the Kona (I have owned two) was it's small size and nimble nature. Great for urban driving with a nice dose of sportiness thrown in. This is a bigger vehicle and until I get a chance to actually drive one around a bit I will reserve judgement on whether Hyundai has kept that "feel".
When they show up to a dealership near you, would be worth seeing. A different take on a vehicle a lot of people have bought and enjoy, so we will see what the market thinks of this new design. I look forward to hearing y'alls thoughts and opinions when you get to see one.
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