KLIMS 2018: Hyundai Kona On Display – 2019 Debut?

The Hyundai booth at the ongoing 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (2018 KLIMS) is nothing short of spectacular, featuring models as basic as the Accent all the way up to the Golf GTI-rivalling i30 N. Hyundai Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) also showcased its all-new Santa Fe at the event.

Slotting in between the entry-level sedan and the hot hatch is the Kona, which could finally be introduced here in 2019.

The Hyundai Kona made its global debut back in June 2017, named after a popular tourist attraction in Hawaii. Other SUVs named after popular locations include Santa Fe, Tucson, and Palisade.

Visually, the Hyundai Kona features a unique three-tier design up front, with thin LED daytime running lights (DRLs) sitting right on top, while the LED projector headlights are placed at the outer edge of the bumper, surrounding the signature cascading grille. The fog lights are integrated nicely into the bottom of the bumper, completing the Kona’s front end.

As for the rear, the Hyundai Kona receives a similar tier design, with slim LED tail lights sitting right on top. The turn signal, reverse light, rear reflectors, and rear fog light are located at the bottom edge of the bumper.

The display car is fitted with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 177 PS at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm of torque from 1,500 rpm till 4,500 rpm. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) sends drive to the front wheels.

As for equipment, the show car is equipped with:

• Heads-up display with navigation info
• Krell premium sound system
• 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment display
• Qi wireless phone charging pad
• Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
• Front and rear parking sensors

While the Kona may be a preview for now, the generous safety equipment really sets the Hyundai Kona apart from its competition, as none of the rivals currently offer this level of equipment for a B-segment SUV.