2025 Hyundai Kona: Features, Specs, and Everything You Need to Know

The 2025 Hyundai Kona is turning heads in the subcompact SUV market, thanks to its upgraded interior, tech-savvy features, and smooth driving experience. If you’ve been wondering whether this Kona is worth the hype, you’re in the right place. As someone who has spent countless hours test-driving compact SUVs, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the 2025 Hyundai Kona — from performance and safety to trims, pricing, and how it compares to its rivals.

Overview of the 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2025 Hyundai Kona stands out as a stylish and practical choice for city drivers and small families alike. With its bold exterior design, comfortable interior, and multiple trim levels, the Kona caters to a wide range of drivers.

From my personal experience, this SUV feels especially compact on tight city streets but surprisingly roomy on the inside, making it ideal for urban commuters who still want comfort and tech features.

The Kona is available in several trims, including SE, SEL, Limited, and the high-performance N Line, each tailored to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly SUV or a tech-packed version, the Kona has something to offer.

2025 Hyundai Kona Specs and Performance

One of the most common questions I hear is: “Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona worth buying?” The answer depends on what you value most in a compact SUV.

Engine and Power

The standard 2025 Hyundai Kona comes with a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower. For drivers seeking more punch, the available 1.6L turbocharged engine delivers 195 horsepower, offering a lively and responsive driving experience.

During a recent test drive in downtown Atlanta, I noticed that the turbo version handled stop-and-go traffic effortlessly while still delivering smooth acceleration on the highway — a balance that not all subcompact SUVs achieve.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a standout feature of the 2025 Kona. The base engine achieves approximately 31 mpg combined, while the turbocharged version averages 28 mpg combined, making it economical for daily commuting.

Handling and Drive

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers nimble handling and confident steering. Whether maneuvering through city streets or tackling winding back roads, the Kona feels planted and comfortable. Its suspension is tuned to absorb most bumps, giving passengers a smooth ride even on rough roads.

Interior Features and Technology

Cabin Comfort

The 2025 Hyundai Kona features significant interior upgrades, especially in the Limited trim. Soft-touch surfaces, quality upholstery, and a user-friendly infotainment system create a premium feel that is rare in this segment.

A real-life case: My neighbor recently purchased a Kona Limited for her daily commute and weekend trips. She mentioned that the seats feel supportive even during long drives, and the cabin noise is minimal, which makes listening to music or podcasts a real pleasure.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Hyundai has equipped the 2025 Kona with a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and multiple USB ports. Navigation and voice commands work seamlessly, and the available wireless charging pad adds extra convenience.

Cargo Space

Despite being a subcompact SUV, the Kona offers 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 45.8 cubic feet with seats folded. This makes it surprisingly practical for grocery runs, weekend getaways, or even transporting small furniture items.

Read Also: 2024 Chevy Traverse Z71

Safety and Reliability

Safety is a top priority for Hyundai, and the 2025 Kona reflects that commitment. Standard safety features include:

• Forward collision-avoidance assist
• Lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Driver attention warning

The Limited trim adds features like adaptive cruise control and a premium sound system, elevating both safety and comfort. Hyundai’s reliability ratings also provide peace of mind, with the Kona consistently scoring high in owner satisfaction surveys.

2025 Hyundai Kona vs Competitors

The 2025 Hyundai Kona competes with other subcompact SUVs such as the Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, and Toyota Corolla Cross.

• Kona vs Mazda CX-30: Kona offers slightly more cargo space and better fuel efficiency.
• Kona vs Honda HR-V: HR-V provides more rear-seat legroom, but Kona comes with more tech features.
• Kona vs Toyota Corolla Cross: Corolla Cross has a smoother ride, while Kona edges out in infotainment options.

These comparisons highlight how the Kona balances urban practicality with modern tech to stand out in its segment.

Real-Life Case Study

Jessica, a marketing professional in Chicago, purchased a 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited after researching several subcompact SUVs. She drives about 40 miles daily on a mix of city and highway roads.

Her experience:

• Fuel efficiency: Averaged 30 mpg consistently.
• Comfort: Enjoyed the supportive front seats and quiet cabin.
• Tech: Apple CarPlay and wireless charging simplified her work calls and navigation.
• Weekend trips: Cargo space accommodated luggage and a small dog comfortably.

Jessica’s story reflects what many real users experience — the Kona balances urban practicality with weekend adventure-ready versatility.

Final Verdict: Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona Worth It?

The 2025 Hyundai Kona successfully blends style, tech, and practicality in a compact SUV package. Whether you’re navigating tight city streets or going on weekend getaways, the Kona offers reliability, fuel efficiency, and comfort.

If you value modern interior features, nimble handling, and a tech-rich experience, the Kona is a smart choice. While higher trims may feel a bit pricey, the upgrades in interior quality, safety, and technology justify the cost for many drivers.

“For a larger SUV option, check out our detailed review of the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe to compare features and performance.”

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