Hyundai is ready to throw its hat in the compact crossover battle with the debut of the 2018 Hyundai Kona, which is going to arrive in the U.S. in early 2018.

2018 Hyundai Kona

The 2018 Hyundai Kona is now the smallest crossover in the Hyundai lineup and is designed specifically for buyers that live in an urban environment where they need a car with a smaller footprint.

“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.

2018 Hyundai Kona

The 2018 Kona is based on a new compact platform that Hyundai says has been designed to provide customers with true CUV capabilities, CUV-level ground clearance and an elevated, command seating position. Even the optional all-wheel drive system has been optimized to reduce the amount of central tunnel intrusion on interior space. Even with its small size, the Kona has 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space.

2018 Hyundai Kona

When the Kona arrives in the first quarter of next year, it will be offered with a choice of two four-cylinder options. The base 2.0L four-cylinder Atkinson engine generates 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft. of torque. The 2.0L is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. The Limited and Ultimate trim levels will be powered by a 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower and 195 lb-ft. of torque – giving the Kona more power than the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR. The turbocharged engine is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. An electrified Kona is expected next year.

2018 Hyundai Kona

To keep everyone safe, the Kona offers several safety features, like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, and Driver Attention Warning.

Inside the 2018 Kona features Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and an available eight-inch touchscreen. Luxury items, like leather seats, automatic climate control and a head-up display are also available. The Kona also offers smartphone wireless charging.

Source: Hyundai