US-Spec Hyundai Kona Announced, Four Variants Available

Hyundai has unveiled the US-production specification Kona at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The all-new Hyundai Kona is the company's first B-segment SUV for the US market and the model will be at Hyundai dealers in the first quarter of 2018.

Two powertrains will be offered for North American buyers, a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder and a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder. Similar to other markets, the 2.0-litre Hyundai Kona is the base model, mated to a six-speed torque converter automatic, while the 1.6-litre unit is paired to a seven-speed DCT.

The company is also keen to point out that the Kona hosts a number of optional safety kit, including Lane-Keeping Assist system, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning, Lane Change Assist, Parking Distance Warning and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection. 

Inside, the US-spec Hyundai Kona comes standard with a floating seven-inch infotainment system with AM/FM radio, AUX input, voice command and a reverse camera. The Hyundai Kona can also be specified with an eight-inch infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM and Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system. 

Hyundai's Blue Link system introduces technologies such as Google Home, Remote Start with Climate Control, Destination Search by Google, Remote Door Lock and Unlock, Car Finder, Enhanced Roadside Assistance and Stolen Vehicle Recovery. Owners can access Blue Link features by visiting MyHyundai.com, the Blue Link app, Amazon Alexa Blue Link voice command, the Blue Link Google Assistant app and buttons on the rear view mirror. 

“Our new Kona crossover is a stylish and functional compact CUV, tailored to the needs of customers who pursue active lifestyles of all kinds,” said Mike O’Brien, vice president of Product, Corporate and Digital Planning, Hyundai Motor America. “We’re confident it will set new standards for its segment, with appealing design, cutting-edge connectivity and class-leading available safety features.”