The 2021 Hyundai Kona is our pick for Subcompact SUV Best Buy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. For 2022, Hyundai has given the Kona refresh, which includes an updated appearance and a performance-oriented N-Line model.
Overall, the 2022 Kona has a cleaner look. A horizontally-split grille looks smaller, and body lines around the headlights have been simplified. Black body cladding around the wheel arches is smaller, both front and back. The taillights look cleaner as well, with the chunky black plastic that used to separate the turn indicators removed.
New N-Line Model
The N-Line edition deletes all of the black plastic body cladding. The Kona looks lower to the ground without it, though height hasn’t actually changed. It adds a three-part hood in the vent, several additional vents in the front fascia, a diffuser in the rear, and twin exhausts. Most of the added vents, however, seem to be cosmetic only.
The standard Kona employs a 147-horsepower, 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. N-Line models boast a smaller and more powerful turbocharged 1.6-liter version, making 195 horsepower. Both versions use a 7-speed automatic transmission, retuned for quicker shifts.
The Kona Electric benefits from the facelift as well. A dimpled false grille on the old model is gone, leaving a Tesla-like clean nose. Body color arches replace the black plastic, much like on the N-Line model.
Changes inside are minimal. The standard infotainment screen grows to 8 inches from 7, and a 10.25-inch model is an option. There’s now a USB port for rear-seat passengers.
Hyundai has improved the driver aids. A rear cross-traffic detection system automatically brakes the Kona to avoid a collision. Lane-keeping assist is an option.
The 2022 Kona will be on sale in late spring and we expect prices to start around $21,000. The 2021 Hyundai Kona is priced from $20,500 for the base model up through $37,390 for the Kona EV.
