2022 Hyundai Kona; Hyundai To Test A New Powertrain?

The Kona, a compact crossover that Hyundai unveiled for the 2018 model got a mid-cycle facelift in 2021. Obviously, the model needs a total overhaul, and recent spy images show that work on the vehicle is still ongoing. The updated photographs show the Kona towing a large load.

Credit: motor1.com

Hyundai keeps the new crossover's design a secret, but the heavy shell that hides the camouflage is gradually coming off. The lack of cladding on the Kona's front suggests that the crossover maintains the split-headlight style of the present model, but Hyundai changes the design so that they are vertical rather than horizontal. Hyundai employed this design language for the new Palisade and Tucson models.

Although the crossover appears slightly bigger than the vehicle it will replace, Hyundai won’t likely be making significant changes to the wheelbase or length of the vehicle. The inside measurements ought to be comparable as well. The rear-end design is really hidden by Hyundai, but it seems like the crossover will still have split-taillight appearance.

According to motor1.com, the trailer most likely indicates that Hyundai is putting the car's gasoline engine through its paces. The gasoline and all-electric versions of the vehicle should remain available from Hyundai. There are even whispers of a hotter Kona N Line making a comeback. The specifications of the potential powertrains are unknown, though. Engine out and performance ought to be comparable to the crossover's current level.

Credit: motor1.com

The Kona's interior was previously captured in spy photos, which showed a split screen that took up half of the dashboard. With a bank of controls behind the central screen, it has the same dash design as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric crossover. The remainder of the dashboard was covered by Hyundai, making it difficult to see any other information. The most recent Hyundai software ought to be installed on the screens.

Although Hyundai hasn't specified a release date for the new Kona crossover, all signs point to the crossover going on sale in early 2023. Sales of the Kona have been rising steadily since its release, but 2022 sales may decline as consumers wait for the revised model.