The newly minted Hyundai Kona, now in its second iteration, initially came to life with a focus on electric vehicle capabilities; however, the architecture isn’t confined to electric propulsion—it readily accommodates the internal combustion systems found in the 2024 Kona N Line turbo variant. Eschewing its former identity as a pseudo-sporty appetizer for the Kona N—a car that mimics hot hatches—Hyundai shifts its strategy this go-around, targeting areas in need of improvement.
Mechanically speaking, the 2024 Kona N Line retains the same 1.6-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ensemble churns out 190 horsepower alongside 195 pound-feet of torque. Although front-wheel drive is the baseline offering, the specimen we scrutinized boasted optional all-wheel drive. Tipping the scales at nearly 200 pounds more than its predecessor, it’s unsurprising that this refreshed SUV lags in acceleration. Specifically, it took an additional 1.2 seconds to hit the 60 mph milestone when compared to a 2022 model. Floor the accelerator, and the experience feels somewhat lacking in dynamism. While the engine-transmission pairing is adept at overtaking and reaching freeway velocity, you may notice a fluctuation in power delivery resembling boost lag, which becomes irksome over time.
On the topic of handling and ride quality, the Kona N Line maintains an air of familiarity. In simpler terms, if you’re seated in the driver’s chair, you’d be hard-pressed to identify any degradation in overall performance. The vehicle showcases commendable cornering prowess, characterized by minimal body roll and a near absence of understeer. That said, its suspension system is less accommodating of more substantial, infrequent bumps on the road. The braking system, meanwhile, provides a tactile, reassuring pedal feel.
When scrutinizing fuel efficiency, the increased weight takes its toll. The all-wheel-drive turbo variant’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ratings suffer a 3-mile-per-hour decrement in both urban and freeway fuel consumption, averaging 26 miles per gallon. Although superior to the 2023 Jeep Renegade’s 1.3-liter turbo-four engine—clocking in at 23 miles per gallon—it falls short of the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport’s 25 miles per gallon, propelled by a three-cylinder engine.
Turning our attention inward, the cabin of the 2024 Kona N Line marks a notable evolution. Enhanced dimensions—including a one-inch expansion in both width and height, a 7-inch elongation in overall length, and a 2.3-inch extension in wheelbase—translates into a more generous spatial allocation for occupants.
Concerning its market positioning, the latest Kona N Line is priced at an initial $33,485—a $3,000 uptick from its earlier version, yet it remains competitively priced within its automotive segment.
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