Crossover SUVs have become the real star of the passenger vehicles industry within the last couple of decades, and all for the right reasons too. At present, no other type of vehicle offers the complete package that a crossover does. Typically, a crossover is aimed to provide the comfort levels matching with that of a sedan, more safety and fuel efficiency than traditional ladder-frame SUVs, easy maneuverability within the city limits, and, in some cases, a solid off-roading prowess at an affordable price point. The sharp rise in the demand for these vehicles started between the late ‘90s and 2000 and all the big automobile manufacturers across the globe have almost crammed the market with multiple products under the crossover segment such as compact, subcompact, and regular crossover SUVs. Even though the US practically introduced the world to the SUV lifestyle, the current market trend of crossovers is well-practiced and followed by overseas brands such as Hyundai, Kia, Toyota, and Nissan. However, the Detroit-based automakers aren’t behind too with some truly appealing and multiple products across multiple segments of the crossover market as well.
Among the top and favorite crossover makers in the market, Hyundai stands at a respectable position and we have seen some noteworthy vehicles from the brand such as the Tucson, the Santa Fe, the Venue, and the Palisade. The Kona was launched by the South Korean brand back in 2017 and held the title of the smallest crossover from the brand until 2019 when the Venue was launched. Presently, the Kona is placed just below the Tucson and above the Venue, to offer a seamless choice according to a buyer’s budget. The vehicle is still in its first-gen model but it received a major facelift back in 2020. The 2022 Hyundai Kona also comes with further styling updates along with some other updates such as an updated interior, enhanced safety features, improved rear suspension setup, and the addition of the N Performance model to the lineup. The SUV is available in more than a couple of performance-oriented models too under the N Line and the N badging to cater to the enthusiast buyers. The regular model is powered by a standard 2.0-liter naturally aspirated I-4 motor that generates a maximum of 147 horsepower along with 132 lb-ft of torque. The base price of the Kona starts at $21,300, putting it within the affordable range of the price bracket. In the segment, the crossover competes against the likes of the Honda HR-V, the Nissan Kicks, and the Mazda CX-3.
