After a full redesign last year, the 2025 Hyundai Kona returns with only a few strategic tweaks—but don’t mistake that for stagnation. This subcompact SUV brings serious value to the table, offering standout tech, sharp styling, and a genuinely fun-to-drive personality, especially when optioned right. Slotting above the Venue and just below the Tucson, the Kona is Hyundai’s answer to urban agility with a touch of attitude.

Despite its small footprint, the Kona’s cabin is surprisingly spacious and premium. The dashboard design looks lifted from a more expensive vehicle, and the base price under $26K is almost shocking when you consider what you get: a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, push-button start, multiple USB-C ports, and a full suite of driver-assist features, including blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. This is not your average budget crossover.

Powering the base models is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder putting out 147 horsepower. It’s fine for city cruising but won’t thrill. The real star is the available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 190 horsepower. It’s peppy, responsive, and transforms the Kona from commuter car to genuinely engaging runabout. Both engines are available with front- or all-wheel drive, and even the sportier trims remain comfortable enough for daily driving thanks to Hyundai’s well-tuned suspension.

Competition in this class is fierce. The Chevy Trax looks great but lacks a punchier engine. Mazda CX-30 brings sporty handling, but fewer features for the dollar. The Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross offer polished rides but can feel underwhelming. That puts the turbocharged Kona in a sweet spot: affordable, quick, and well-equipped.

What’s New for 2025:
Minimal changes follow last year’s redesign. Two new trims debut: SEL Convenience (which bundles the previous year’s popular options) and N Line S, which brings turbocharged power and sporty styling at a more affordable price point.

Trim Walk:

• SE ($25,745) — LED headlights, 12.3″ touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and standard safety tech galore.
• SEL ($27,095) — Adds 18″ wheels, roof rails, dual-zone climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat.
• SEL Convenience ($29,295) — Adds heated seats, paddle shifters, wireless charging, navigation, and a fully digital gauge cluster.
• N Line S ($30,745) — Our pick. Turbocharged engine, 19″ wheels, sporty styling, metal pedals, and leather/suede seats.
• N Line ($32,295) — Adds Bose premium audio and sunroof.
• Limited ($33,295) — The works: ventilated front seats, surround-view monitor, hands-free liftgate, parking sensors, and more.

Engine & Performance:
The base 2.0L four-cylinder is adequate but uninspiring, best suited for fuel-conscious commuters. The 1.6L turbo-four, on the other hand, is eager and athletic, making the Kona feel light on its feet and far more refined than most competitors. The turbo engine also delivers smoother, quieter shifts thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission. AWD is optional across the board.

Fuel Economy:

• 2.0L FWD: 29/34 mpg city/highway
• 1.6L Turbo FWD: 26/32 mpg
• 2.0L AWD: 27/29 mpg
• 1.6L Turbo AWD: 24/29 mpg

These numbers stack up well against the likes of the Trax and HR-V, making the Kona both punchy and efficient when properly equipped.

Interior & Tech:
Hyundai knows how to make a small SUV feel upscale. The Kona’s interior design is clean and spacious, with plenty of legroom and smart storage. Materials feel good, even in lower trims. Cargo capacity is also a win: 25.5 cubic feet behind the second row, 63.7 cubic feet with seats down—more than the HR-V and Trax.

All models get a sharp 12.3-inch touchscreen, with four USB-C ports, wireless device charging (in select trims), and an intuitive infotainment system. Higher trims bring premium touches like Bose audio and ambient lighting.

Safety:
Standard safety tech includes forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, driver attention warning, and rear occupant alert. Advanced features like surround-view cameras and smart parking assist are available on top trims.

The Bottom Line:

The 2025 Hyundai Kona punches well above its weight. If you want style, tech, and turbocharged fun in an affordable, city-friendly SUV, this one’s tough to beat. Skip the base engine and go straight for the N Line S—your daily commute will thank you.

Pros:

• Packed with standard features
• Turbo engine adds real fun
• Excellent cargo space and tech

Cons:

• Base engine lacks muscle
• Ride isn’t as polished as some rivals

Verdict: Not just a smart buy—a fun one, too. The 2025 Kona proves that practical can also mean exciting.