The 2022 Hyundai Kona is among a cadre of smart-sized subcompact SUV models. We thought so highly of it that we selected it as a KBB Best Buy Award winner for 2019 and 2020. For 2022, it has been newly made over.
Now a few model years into its lifetime, the Kona continues with a similar powertrain package. It does, however, receive new styling, a new interior, and additions to both its safety and technology suites. For those who like Kona’s innovative style but whose tastes run green, there is an electric version of the model.
Power for gasoline versions of the Hyundai Kona comes from three engine choices, beginning with a 2.0-liter inline-4 that makes 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The second mill is a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-4 making 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. That’s 20 horses more than last year.
Finally, the fall of 2021 will bring the high-performance 2022 Hyundai Kona N with a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 producing 276 horsepower and 289 lb-ft of torque. This model comes with a unique capability: With the push of a steering wheel-mounted button, it gets an additional jolt of 10 ponies up to 286 hp for 20 seconds. Think of it as an electronic version of Formula 1’s KERS system of a few years ago.
The Kona models receive different transmissions based on their engines. The base engine is mated to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while the 1.6-liter engine in the N Line and Limited trims boasts a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive (AWD) is a $1,500 option on the SE, SEL, N Line, and Limited trim levels. Finally, the high-performance Kona N gets an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It is only available with front-wheel drive.
Five Hyundai Kona Trim Levels
The 2022 Hyundai Kona is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, N Line, Limited, and Kona N. All are 2-row/5-passenger subcompact crossovers with either front or all-wheel drive. Both the S and SEL are well-equipped models, but those with a taste for performance will appreciate the Hyundai Kona N Line and Kona Limited. For those who want to wait till fall, the even more powerful 2022 Hyundai Kona N arrives.
Pricing starts at $20,950 for the Hyundai Kona SE model and tops out with the Hyundai Kona Limited and its price tag of $28,250. Hyundai provides complimentary maintenance on all vehicles for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
We love the value included in almost every Hyundai vehicle, but we think the Hyundai Kona N Line at $25,500 hits the sweet spot for power and performance. It’s a good jumping-off point with the 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine making 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. Order the all-wheel drive package for $1,500 and you will receive an independent rear suspension as part of the kit. When coupled with the 7-speed EcoShift Dual-Clutch transmission, it still manages to check in at $27,000.
Note that the prices below are before the $1,185 destination fee.
Which 2022 Hyundai Kona is right for me?
2022 Hyundai Kona SE ($20,950)
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Cloth interior
- 8-inch infotainment screen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane-keeping assistance
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- 60/40 split/fold rear seats
2022 Hyundai Kona SEL ($22,750)
- 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower
- Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- Blind-spot monitor
- Rear cross-traffic alert w/braking
- Keyless entry/ignition
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Blue Link connectivity
- Safe Exit Warning
- Available with Convenience Package
2022 Hyundai Kona N Line ($25,500)
- 1.6-liter turbo engine w/195 horsepower
- 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Automatic climate control
- 8-way power driver’s seat
- Heat front sport seats
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- Body-color cladding
- N Line exterior badging
- N Line interior trim
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Alloy pedal covers
- Available w/Tech Package
2022 Hyundai Kona Limited ($28,250)
- 1.6-liter turbo engine w/195 horsepower
- 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission
- Leather upholstery
- Adaptive cruise control
- Rain-sensing wipers
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- 10.25-inch touchscreen w/ navigation
- Parking Distance Warning (Reverse)
- Ambient interior lighting
- LED headlights and taillights
- 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- Rear USB ports
2022 Hyundai Kona N ($35,000, Estimated)
- 2.0-liter turbo engine w/276 horsepower (additional 10 hp available in 20-second spurts)
- 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with exclusive FWD
- Microsuede upholstery
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
- 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation
- LED headlights and taillights
- 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
Ready to buy a Hyundai Kona? Shop for one on sale now near you.
