The 2022 Hyundai Kona is getting an even more distinctive look both inside and out, a fresh powertrain option, and expanded tech choices. A sporty N Line trim joins the lineup for the first time, advancing the Kona’s reputation as an exceptionally fun-to-drive subcompact SUV.
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2022 Kona interior and exterior
The outside of the 2022 Kona appears more streamlined and muscular, with a longer build, a widened hood, and new daytime running lights. Front and rear skid plates give the Kona a tougher look. The Kona Electric receives a refreshed exterior, too, including new lighting signatures and a reshaped front end. N Line models are distinguished by body-color cladding, unique N Line wheels, and dual exhaust tips.
Inside, the Kona adds a new dashboard and console, available ambient lighting, and more space in the second row and cargo bay. The Kona Electric also has a new dash. The interior of the N Line distinguishes itself with red-stitched blacks seats and N Line logos.
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2022 Kona performance
New for 2022, the Kona’s Limited and N Line trims receive a 1.6-liter turbo engine that makes 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Lower trims carry over a six-speed automatic transmission and a 2.0-liter inline-four that puts out 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The Kona Electric’s 150-kilowatt motor and 64-kWh battery also carry over with 201 horsepower, 291 lb-ft of torque, and up to 258 miles of range. All models receive some new chassis tuning for a more responsive and agile ride.
2022 Kona tech
The 2022 Kona boasts new available twin 10.25-inch screens. One is for the digital instrument cluster. The other is for an upgraded infotainment system with navigation, multi-device Bluetooth, and split-screen functionality. The standard touch screen has been enlarged to 8 inches. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Hyundai Digital Key, and Dynamic Voice Recognition are new, too.
The Kona offers eight standard or available SmartSense safety features for 2022. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Following Assist, and Safe Exit Warning carry over. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist and Highway Drive Assist are both new to the Kona.
According to Hyundai, the refreshed 2022 Kona lineup will be available at dealerships sometime in the spring.
A longtime editor/writer and recently transplanted Hoosier, Caleb Cook lives in Xenia, Ohio. His favorite activities are reading and listening to music, although he occasionally emerges from the heap of books and vinyl records in his basement to stand blinking in the sunlight. Once fully acclimated to the outside world again, he can be observed hanging out with his wife, attempting a new recipe in the kitchen, attending movies, walking the dog, or wandering into a local brewery to inquire about what’s on tap. See more articles by Caleb.