The 2025 Hyundai Kona continues to evolve as one of the most versatile and appealing subcompact SUVs on the market, combining bold design, impressive technology, and a range of powertrains that cater to both efficiency-focused and performance-oriented buyers. Redesigned for the latest generation, the Kona offers more space, refinement, and premium features than ever before, helping it stand out in an increasingly competitive segment. With its wide range of trims and powertrain choices, it appeals to young professionals, small families, and urban dwellers alike, delivering a balance of practicality and style that few rivals can match.
The exterior styling of the 2025 Kona makes a bold statement, leaning heavily into Hyundai’s futuristic design language. The front fascia features a full-width LED light bar that stretches across the grille, giving it a distinctive presence on the road, while the lower grille and vertical air intakes emphasize its sporty stance. Strong character lines flow along the sides, while pronounced wheel arches and available contrasting roof options add personality and a sense of ruggedness. At the rear, a sleek tailgate design incorporates another LED light bar for symmetry, and slim taillights sit high on the body for a modern, upscale look. The Kona has grown slightly in dimensions, offering a more commanding road presence without losing its urban-friendly proportions. Buyers can further customize the look with wheel sizes up to 19 inches and a selection of vibrant colors that complement its youthful personality.
Under the hood, the 2025 Hyundai Kona offers multiple powertrains to suit different needs. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission. This setup prioritizes efficiency and smooth operation, making it well-suited for daily commuting. For those seeking more performance, Hyundai offers a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivering 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbocharged option provides a significant bump in responsiveness and driving excitement, giving the Kona an edge over many rivals in the segment. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for those who want extra traction in inclement weather.
Driving the 2025 Kona reveals a well-balanced small SUV that is both nimble and comfortable. The base engine delivers adequate performance for around-town driving, while the turbocharged engine provides brisk acceleration and more confident passing power. Steering is direct and precise, giving the Kona a playful feel in corners, and the suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control. It handles uneven pavement well and remains composed at highway speeds, with road noise kept in check thanks to improved insulation. The availability of all-wheel drive enhances grip and stability, making the Kona a confident choice for drivers in areas with harsh weather. The driving experience feels refined and mature for its class, setting it apart from some competitors that lean more heavily on basic functionality.
Fuel economy remains one of the Kona’s strengths. With the base 2.0-liter engine and front-wheel drive, the 2025 Kona achieves an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Opting for all-wheel drive reduces those numbers slightly, but they remain competitive. The turbocharged engine delivers lower but still respectable ratings, coming in at around 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. These figures make the Kona an efficient daily driver, particularly for urban commuters who also appreciate the flexibility of SUV practicality.
Safety has been a consistent priority for Hyundai, and the 2025 Kona continues that tradition. The previous model earned high marks, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation and strong NHTSA ratings, and the 2025 model is expected to maintain or improve upon those results. Standard driver-assistance features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims expand the suite with advanced features such as a surround-view camera system, highway driving assist, and parking collision avoidance, ensuring drivers have access to the latest in safety technology. These features, combined with Hyundai’s solid crash-test performance, make the Kona a reassuring choice for families and young drivers alike.
Inside, the 2025 Kona has taken a leap forward in both design and quality. The cabin feels more spacious than before, with increased rear-seat legroom and improved cargo capacity thanks to the model’s slightly larger dimensions. Materials are soft-touch and well-finished, with thoughtful design touches that elevate the experience. The layout emphasizes simplicity and functionality, with dual digital displays creating a tech-forward atmosphere. Seating comfort is excellent, with supportive front seats and enough adjustability to accommodate long drives. Rear passengers benefit from the added space, making the Kona more practical for families compared to earlier models. The cargo area offers generous versatility, with split-folding rear seats that allow for a flexible mix of passenger and gear-carrying needs.
The technology offerings in the 2025 Kona are equally impressive. Standard models come equipped with dual 12.3-inch displays, one serving as the digital instrument cluster and the other as the infotainment touchscreen. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB-C ports, and over-the-air software updates to keep the vehicle current. Higher trims add a premium audio system, wireless smartphone charging, head-up display, and advanced navigation with real-time traffic updates. The interface is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and simple menus that minimize driver distraction. Hyundai’s continued investment in technology ensures the Kona feels modern and well-connected.
The 2025 Kona is offered in multiple trims, catering to a wide range of buyers. The base SE and SEL trims provide strong value with a generous list of standard safety and tech features. Stepping up to the N Line trim introduces sportier styling elements, larger wheels, and the more powerful turbocharged engine, appealing to buyers who want a more dynamic driving experience. The Limited trim tops the lineup with luxury-oriented amenities such as leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and advanced driver-assist systems. Pricing is expected to start in the mid-$20,000s for the base trim and extend into the mid-$30,000s for fully loaded models, keeping the Kona competitive in its class while offering strong value for the features included.
The 2025 Hyundai Kona delivers on its promise as a stylish, versatile, and feature-rich small SUV that goes beyond expectations for its class. With its bold exterior design, multiple powertrain options, refined driving dynamics, and upscale interior, it offers something for nearly every type of buyer. Whether you prioritize efficiency, performance, or technology, the Kona provides a well-rounded package that continues to push the boundaries of what a subcompact SUV can be. It stands out as one of the most appealing choices in a crowded segment, offering a blend of style and substance that ensures its place at the top of many shopping lists.
