2018 Hyundai Kona – Best Small SUV in the Northeast?

2018 Hyundai Konas Storm the Northeast

Among small SUV’s available across New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut, the 2018 Hyundai Kona is a real contender when it comes to capability, comfort and affordability. Its carlike ride and handling make it a pleasure to drive down a twisty road, and the suspension eats up the bumps.  In fact, the new all-wheel drive Kona is so awesome, it even has a locking center differential for ultimate traction and grip.

Touchscreen infotainment—in the form of a 7.0- or 8.0-inch display—is standard and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.  Front wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available. Due to the climate in our area of the country, all wheel drive models of the Kona are more prevalent.

Why is the 2018 Kona So Popular?

So what is really making drivers in New York and Connecticut choose the new 2018 Hyundai Kona? In a nutshell – surprising overall roominess, and creature comforts that you normally don’t expect to see on a vehicle of this size and price. Plus it is a lot of fun to drive.

Another bonus is the commanding view of the road from above that you get when driving. The Hyundai Kona sits just high enough to offer a confident view forward.

Additionally, compared to some other small crossover SUVs on the market, you can see very well in all directions as there are relatively few blind spots on the Kona.

If you are at all considering buying or leasing a crossover vehicle in New York or Massachusetts, the 2018 Hyundai Kona is absolutely worth taking a closer look at.

2018 Hyundai Kona Models

SE

SEL

Limited

Ultimate

New Hyundai Kona Interior

When it comes to roominess, there is a surprising amount of room inside. Up front, the head room and leg room are quite good. It also offers a natural an commanding driving position with a very ergonomic controls layout. An available adjustable power lumbar support is perfect for those drivers looking for the perfect, supremely comfortable seat position.

The rear seats are a little less spacious, delivering decent headroom, however, if you are a long-legged individual, things are a little close. That being said, three grown men can sit back here.

In terms of storage space for all your stuff, the new Kona comes in at 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Again, for a vehicle of this size, having this much room for all your stuff is definitely a plus. Plus underneath the adjustable cargo floor, there is an area to store supplies or valuable items you might not want to be seen by prying eyes.

As mentioned earlier, the interior controls on the Kona are super ergonomic. Hyundai really nailed the design of the dashboard on this one. The climate controls couldn’t get any simpler. The same goes for the standard seven inch or optional eight-inch touchscreen displays as well. It is placed up high for excellent viewability, and actual physical buttons surround the screen so you can easily navigate through different menus. On top of that, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on the 2018 Hyundai Kona.

Is there more than one Available Engine on the Kona?

To start out the model line, Kona trim levels are powered by a two-liter, four-cylinder engine. This is married to a six-speed automatic transmission producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The ombination offers modest acceleration and admirable fuel efficiency at 33 miles per gallon on the highway and 27 mpg in the city. With the addition of all-wheel drive, this drops a little to 30 highway and 25 city.

Under the hood of the upper-level Kona Limited and Ultimate trim levels, you will find a smaller, more robust engine. This is a 1.6-liter turbocharged teamed with a seven-speed, dual clutch transmission. Additonally, EPA here matches that of the two-liter engine. There really is no downside to the abundantly torque rich turbocharged Kona.

How Well Does the 2018 Kona Drive?

The 2018 Hyundai Kona is one of the most enjoyable small SUVs on the market today. All-wheel drive models offer a superior ride and handling with an independent rear suspension versus the torsion beam single rear axle on the two-wheel drive. The steering is quick as well, giving the vehicle a playful feel in corners. Engaging Sport Mode increases overall throttle sensitivity, but seems to more intended for straightaways as it makes steering response a bit heavy.

What are the Features and Amenties?

A base Kona SE model includes standard essentials like cruise control and a backup camera with dynamic guidelines. As you move up in trim levels there are numerous additional features available. Keyless entry with push-button ignition, leather seats, and a heads-up display are just a few. Wireless mobile phone charging and parking sensors  are also available.

What are the Safety Features on a 2018 Hyundai Kona?

The Kona also offers a wide array of Safety Options. Blind spot warning, rear cross traffic alert, and forward collision warning with braking abilities give you extra piece of mind on the road. The Kona also offers lane departure warning and lane keeping assist. This innovative system is great for those long road trips or possible moments of distraction. It works much as you would expect.  When you depart the lane in which you are traveling, there is an auditory alert. If you do not react to this alert, the system will take over and steer you back into your intended lane of travel.

Conclusion and Comments

So what do you think? Could the 2018 Hyundai Kona be the best SUV in the Northeast? There is no arguing that it is and affordable, fun to drive, and capable vehicle. The distinctive styling, superior technology and safety features seem to make it an even great value. Let me know what you think in the comments below.

Visit a Lia Hyundai dealership near you to test drive a 2018 Hyundai Kona.  The Lia Auto Group has locations in New York and Connecticut. Take look around the extensive inventory of new Kona models for you to choose from. When you are free, stop by Lia Hyundai in Albany New York, Lia Hyundai in Hartfort CT, or Lia Hyundai in Enfield Connecticut and take one for a spin.

Tags: Connecticut, Hyundai, Kona, new cars, New York, Review, SUVs
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