Hyundai Kona problems
The Hyundai Kona (Korean: 현대 코나) is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the South Korean manufacturer Hyundai. The first-generation Kona debuted in June 2017 and the production version was revealed later that year. It is positioned between the Venue or Bayon and the Tucson in Hyundai crossover SUV line-up. The battery electric version called the Kona Electric (or Kona EV) was first launched in South Korea during the first half of 2018 and rolled out gradually worldwide afterwards.
Naming
The Kona is named after the western district of the island of Hawaiʻi. The company stated the name "reflects the lifestyle of modern customers", in line with its "progressive design" that it adopts. The Kona naming also continues Hyundai's tradition of naming crossover SUV models after famous travel destinations, including the Creta, Santa Fe, Tucson and Veracruz.
The vehicle is marketed in Portugal as the Hyundai Kauai, as Kona is too similar to cona, a slang word for the female genitalia in European Portuguese. It's also sold in Iceland where the word kona means woman in Icelandic. Like Kona, Kauai is a place in Hawaii. It is also Hawaiian for lady.
In China, the vehicle was sold as the Hyundai Encino.
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Hyundai Kona model years
Common Hyundai Kona problems
The Hyundai Kona, a subcompact SUV, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners.
Another common problem with the Hyundai Kona is related to its advanced safety system, specifically the blind-spot collision warning system. The 2018 model has been reported to have issues with the blind-spot collision warning system shutting down unexpectedly, which can be a significant safety concern.
In addition to engine and safety system issues, the Hyundai Kona has also been reported to have problems with its infotainment system. Some owners have reported issues with the radio station changing by itself, which could be due to electromagnetic interference or a problem with the power source of the radio system.
The Blue Link, Hyundai's advanced features suite, has also been reported to have connectivity issues in the 2018 Kona. Owners have reported problems with the system refusing to connect or displaying error codes, which can be a significant inconvenience.
Finally, some owners have reported poor mileage with the Hyundai Kona, with some experiencing a drop in mileage over time. This could be due to various factors, including winter weather or gas quality.
In summary, the Hyundai Kona has been reported to have several common problems, including engine issues, safety system problems, infotainment system problems, connectivity issues, and poor mileage. These issues have been reported by owners of various model years, with the 2018 and 2019 models being particularly affected.
Are there any issues with the Hyundai Kona?
According to the recall campaign reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the defective Konas carry a risk of stalling and, in some cases, spontaneous fires. The 2021 recall follows several prior recalls addressing other issues in certain Kona model vehicles.
Are Hyundai Kona reliable cars?
The 2024 Hyundai Kona has a predicted reliability score of 82 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
Does the Hyundai Kona have transmission problems?
If you don't routinely and regularly change your fluids at least every 30,000 miles or so, you may find that your 2023 Hyundai Kona transmission will quickly slip.
Which Kona is recalled?
Hyundai is recalling over 1700 examples of its recently introduced second-generation Kona as they pose a potential fire risk. The recall affects only vehicles with the turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Hyundai Kona years
We have researched Hyundai problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Hyundai Kona cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Hyundai Kona model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Hyundai Kona model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Hyundai Kona years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Hyundai Kona car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Hyundai Kona , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Power train problems
- Forward collision avoidance problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Hyundai Kona vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Kona model years
A total of 32 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Kona model years
There were a total of 18 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Kona model years
There were a total of 28 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Kona model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 516 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Hyundai Kona . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Hyundai Kona vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Hyundai Kona 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-23
- VIN: KM8K53A55JU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Vehicle was traveling down the highway with cruise control on and suddenly proceeded to not maintain speed and lost the ability to accelerate and shake in the middle of the interstate. Check engine light came on after this and we were able to limp it off the highway onto the ramp. No warning lights, no over heating, or any signs were given prior to this incident to give the impression this vehicle would stop operating. My family's safety was put at risk as it lost speed suddenly on the interstate in the middle of traffic and could have caused other cars to hit us as we slowed and tried to get over to access the ramp. Vehicle was towed and inspected at a local mechanic and was informed there was oil burned on the spark plugs and cylinder 1 and 3 had little to no compression.
Hyundai Kona 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-10
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-22
- VIN: KM8K33A54JU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2018 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated while her daughter was driving at undisclosed speeds, the engine warning light illuminated. There was an abnormal knocking sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined there was knock in the cylinder. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was determined that the cam was overworked and both cams had overproduced. Additionally, there was a misfire in cylinders number 1, 2, and 4. There was a power imbalance test performed, which determined that cylinder #3 was the cause of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 104,745.
Hyundai Kona 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-18
- VIN: KM8K1CAA2MU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2021 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle downshifted unintendedly. The check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was able to restart; however, the failure recurred while driving. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was diagnosed that the transmission piston ring had failed. The mechanic determined that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 96,000.
Hyundai Kona 2024
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: KM8HECA38RU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 7 months old Kona with 700 miles on it. Woke up one morning with a "Totally" dead battery. The internet is full of incidents such as mine--new Konas with dead batteries. The dealer could not give me a service date until one month later. Car is still at the dealer...
Hyundai Kona 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-22
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-16
- VIN: KM8K2CAB2PU
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I received a notification by email from NHTSA about a recall for our 2023 Hyundai Kona N. It states that the recall has to do with Loss of Drive Power from Fuel Pump Failure. Your recall ID 24V528 sent July 22, I phoned the dealer, Mike Murphy in Peoria, Illinois and they could not find this recall. I have an appointment with them on Oct 24 to bring in my car for an oil change and to fix a recall on the trunk lock (I was not given any info on this recall until I contacted the dealership). Since I put in my VIN # above, It did not turn up anything either. What's going on and why are you sending Recalls that have nothing to do with my vehicle (?)
Hyundai Kona 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-08
- VIN: KM8K12AA5MU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Stalled out
Hyundai Kona 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-06
- VIN: KM8K1CAA5MU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While driving on the interstate highway the engine stopped. The circumstances surrounding the failure matched those for Kona VINs that were recalled.
Hyundai Kona 2020
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
- VIN: KM8K33A56LU
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: When stopped at a light, I hit the gas and the car just sputtered. The car jolted and did not move, finally, hit the gas again it was able to move. It has happen before. My roommate's Dad told me I need to keep track of problem and file a report. I was told the injectors needed to be cleaned. I put injector cleaner into it, It seem to help but it happened again. It seems the dealer just says something needs to be cleaned.
Hyundai Kona 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-18
- VIN: KM8K62AA6JU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: While trying to accelerate on a on ramp onto the interstate, I felt my engine begin to knock. I pulled over and was able to get the car to drive home. The next morning my car would not turn over. I had it towed to my mechanic. They said it was bone dry of oil, I have always had it regularly serviced. They diagnosed it with engine failure. I’m just above the 60000 mile warranty at 63000 and Hyundai refuses to honor the warranty or help with the engine failure.
Hyundai Kona 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-13
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: KM8K33A57MU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,ENGINE
- Summary: I had a 2021 Hyundai Kona limited. On Friday 09/13/2024 my engine caught fire and my car was a total loss. Minutes before the fire I noticed some smoke, all of my dash lights came on and the car shut down. Seconds after stopping the vehicle and getting out the whole engine went up in flames. There are recalls active for my make model and year, nothing for my specific vin number but will be reaching out to Hyundai corporate to see if they want to come look at the car, in case it needs to be added to the recall list.
Hyundai Kona 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-06
- VIN: KM8K22AA5KU
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2019 Hyundai Kona. The contact stated while driving 45 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle was losing motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle then stalled. The contact pulled over and waited approximately 20 minutes before restarting the vehicle. The contact stated that the failure was intermittent but had occurred at various speeds. The contact stated that the check engine warning light only recently illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle had to be taken for an oil change monthly. The contact stated that there was no indication of an oil leak on the driveway. The contact had taken the vehicle to a local dealer however, the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 117,000.
Hyundai Kona 2018
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: KM8K3CA51JU
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: At approximately 10,000 miles the tread is separating from the tire
Hyundai Kona 2023
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-03
- VIN: KM8K62AB0PU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Horn does not work.
Hyundai Kona 2021
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-09-01
- VIN: KM8K3CA54MU
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: Transmission has hard shift sometimes, and disengages in other times. It's very irratic.
Hyundai Kona 2019
- Date Of Incident: 2024-08-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
- VIN: KM8K1CAA6KU
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: My engine seems to have failed due to bad oil piston rings and Hyundai/ the dealership refused to look at it for that and denied my claim. Almost 3 weeks ago, my check engine light came on after (solid) after getting gas. It was running fine and I had an oil change appointment that Saturday so it should be good (I had a coupon expiring, so I was taking it in like 400 miles early for it's oil change). The car started losing a little bit power throughout the week- it didn't have the get up and go it usually does. On Saturday, first thing in the morning, on my way to my 8 am oil change, my car started a little rough (it had never done that before). I drive like 5 miles, then all of a sudden my car stutters, 2 blocks later dies, it restarted fine, but made a horrible noise. I drove it the block to the oil change place and my car was completely out of oil. No oil light ever came on and I have never been less than a quart (more than acceptable) at an oil change. There was no visible oil leak in my parking spot. It was towed to the dealership and the engine is blown. There has never been any visible oil leak and I have all records on carfax imputed by the mechanics.
Latest 5 recalls Hyundai Kona
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the Hyundai Kona.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Hyundai Kona 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-05-01
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Elantra, Venue, and Kona vehicles. An electrical short circuit may occur in the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve assembly, which can result in a loss of drive power.
- Consequence: A loss of drive power increases the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will replace the exhaust gas recirculation valve assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 28, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 260.
- Model: Hyundai Kona 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-12-26
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Kona vehicles. The 12-Volt battery cables may chafe against the engine control module bracket and short circuit during a crash.
- Consequence: A short circuit increases the risk of an engine compartment fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will install sheathing over the wiring, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 22, 2024. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 252.
- Model: Hyundai Kona 2024
- Report Received Date: 2023-09-22
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER:RETRACTOR
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2024 Kona vehicles. The seat belt assemblies in the right and left rear seats may not function properly. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupation Crash Protection" and 209, "Seat Belt Assemblies."
- Consequence: A seat belt that does not function properly may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the seat belt retractor as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 21, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 250.
- Model: Hyundai Kona 2023
- Report Received Date: 2023-07-27
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:FLUID/LUBRICANT:PUMP
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Palisade Tucson, 2023 Sonata, Elantra, and Kona vehicles. The electronic controller for the Idle Stop & Go oil pump assembly may contain damaged electrical components that can cause the pump controller to overheat.
- Consequence: An electric oil pump assembly that overheats increases the risk of a vehicle fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete. Dealers will inspect and replace the electric oil pump controller, as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed starting September 7, 2023. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460. Hyundai's number for this recall is 246.
- Model: Hyundai Kona 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-04-28
- Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor America
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Elantra, 2019-2021 Kona and Veloster vehicles equipped with 2.0L Nu MPI engines. The piston oil rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which could result in engine damage.
- Consequence: A damaged engine may stall, increasing the risk of a crash. In addition, oil may leak onto hot exhaust components, increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the engine, free of charge. In addition, Hyundai will deploy Piston Ring Noise Sensing System (PNSS) software. Owner notification letters were mailed August 24, 2021. Owners may contact Hyundai customer service at 1-855-371-9460.
Latest negative Hyundai Kona car reviews
Latest positive Hyundai Kona car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2020
I have been a loyal Honda customer for 35 years and have owned 12 Hondas (9 Honda/3 Acura) vehicles. However, after experiencing issues with my CR-V, I decided to explore other options. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and reliability of the 2020 Kona Limited from Hyundai. Not only was it $12,000 cheaper, but it was also of better quality. While the Kona is not perfect, it is a great vehicle overall. I particularly love the stylish design, both inside and out, and its quick and agile handling. The 185hp turbo engine is a blast, especially in 'sport mode'. The limited edition comes with all the latest gadgets and systems, including Apple Car Play/ Android Auto, Lane Keep Assist, heated seats and mirrors, moonroof, and Blue Link, which allows you to start the car from your phone. The Kona also performs well in the snow with its all-wheel drive and snow tires. Although the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission can be indecisive and not very smooth at slow speeds, using manual mode until you get up to speed seems to help. The ride quality could also be improved, but overall, I am extremely satisfied with my purchase. I cannot imagine owning any other vehicle and will likely purchase another Kona in the future. I hope that Hyundai will continue to improve the transmission and ride quality to make it a 5-star vehicle.
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Vehicle year: 2021
Great little SUV/Crossover. With the rebates and a little haggling, you can get a great deal on a sharp looking car. I highly recommend the SEL if you can go a few bucks more up from base.
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Vehicle year: 2020
I'm glad to hear that you're enjoying your car! It sounds like you made a great choice with the SEL Plus and base engine/trans. It's great to hear that it works smoothly and gets good gas mileage, even on the interstate with hills. I'm also happy to hear that the seats are comfortable for you. Thank you for sharing your experience and recommendation to not exclude the lower trim levels. It's always helpful to hear from someone who has had a positive experience with a car after several months of use.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I recently purchased a Hyundai Kona after test driving a few different vehicles. As a 6 foot guy, I needed something roomy and fun to drive, and the Kona fit the bill perfectly. It gets an average of 30 mpg and is a great value for the money. I found a Kona with the SEL trim in Lawrence, Kansas for around 22K, which is a steal for an SUV of this quality and style. I've only had it for a few weeks, but it's been great on the highway and zippy around town. The interior has some hard plastics, but they look classy and seem to be designed to last. The hatch area and seats fold down for extended storage, and while I'm not sure if my bike will fit in the back like it did in my old car, a bike rack on the back will take care of that. Overall, I'm very happy with my purchase and would highly recommend the Kona to anyone looking for a reliable and peppy SUV. UPDATE: After 4 years, I traded in my Kona for another new car, but I have to admit, I miss it sometimes. It was always reliable and great on gas. I'm very impressed with the quality of Hyundai vehicles and I'm excited to see what they come up with next!
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Vehicle year: 2019
The Kona Iron Man edition is a real head-turner! I was initially drawn to its unique appearance, but the 1.6 Turbo and 7 Speed DCT exceeded my expectations. Although I own a Genesis G90 5.0 HTRAC for luxury, the Kona is my go-to for a fun and sporty ride. Despite being older than the typical Kona driver, I couldn't resist the opportunity to have some fun. The Iron Man add-ons and matte gray paint with ruby red roof and accents are fantastic, and the leather interior is top-notch for its price range. The Kona is well-equipped with a long list of standard features, making it a great little runabout. I've had the car for over six months now, and I still love it! Although the matte Ironman Gray Paint requires some extra care to keep clean, it's worth it for the attention and compliments I receive. I've yet to see another one on the road, but I highly recommend the Kona with the 1.6 Turbo and 7 speed DCT to anyone looking for reliable transportation with a bit of fun. This applies to any Kona, not just the Ironman edition. It's a fun little car that's sure to put a smile on your face!
Are you having problems with your Hyundai Kona?
Zechariah Greenfelder 2025-10-04
Vehicle year: 2021
The engine gave up after only four months, despite being brand new. This is unacceptable and requires immediate attention.
Anthony VonRueden 2025-10-03
Vehicle year: 2023
I have leased two Konas from this dealership over the past few years, as they claim it is the smallest car that Hyundai produces. This year, I opted for the SEL model instead of the SEL Plus, as I did not require the additional features. However, I regret not reconsidering my decision, as the SEL only offers wireless CarPlay, which is a significantly degraded experience. It is puzzling that the model with a wireless charger only has wired CarPlay, while the model without it only has wireless CarPlay. Although the higher-end packages do not offer wireless CarPlay, it is understandable given the poor quality of the feature. Unfortunately, neither car has come close to the estimated City or Highway mileage listed on the sticker, consistently falling 4-5 MPG below those estimates, regardless of driving conditions. During a recent road trip, the car struggled to drive up a mountain, making me question its ability to tow a small UHaul trailer cross-country. The Kona's loud beeps and warnings are also a source of confusion, as is the car's tendency to unlock itself when it thinks the keys are still inside. While it is not the worst car I have ever driven, I regret renewing my lease instead of letting it expire.
Ali Bednar 2025-09-27
Vehicle year: 2023
The car has some great features such as good mileage, safety features, and good acceleration. It also looks nice, especially in a lovely bright blue color. However, there are some downsides to the car. The driver seat is uncomfortable and the ride can be bumpy. Although it has good pickup, driving it can feel like a chore, especially with the lane keeper feature on. The small back window can also be a bit of a hindrance. Additionally, the built-in GPS is not accurate and we prefer to use our standalone Garmin GPS instead. Lastly, there is a security concern with the USB port that requires a software update. Overall, the car has its pros and cons, but we still enjoy driving it.
Elmo Nicolas 2025-09-23
Vehicle year: 2023
I have owned 4 new Konos and have been loyal to the brand. However, due to 2 recalls, 5 injectors misfiring, and a broken sunroof assembly with parts on back order for 45 days, my experience with the Kono N line has been disappointing. I am considering pursuing the lemon law for this vehicle in Florida. It is unfortunate that Hyundai has not established a proper part infrastructure for a new model year. I hope they will address this issue in the future.
Berta Grimes 2025-09-19
Vehicle year: 2018
The 2018 Kona is a fun and zippy car to drive around with good gas mileage and better acceleration than reported. It handles great and is interactive with a big info screen. However, there are a few issues that need to be addressed. The headliner keeps dropping down and rattling, and the back hatch does not properly close unless slammed. Additionally, Apple CarPlay can be hit and miss when connecting to the same phone. The sun visors flip up so hard that they cause the sunglasses holder to pop open time and time again. When the windows are opened in the back and front, there is a big airflow issue that causes the whole car to shake. Storage is tight and very limited, so it should not be considered an SUV. The radio volume is lower than expected, but this can be remedied by installing an antenna. Overall, the Kona is a good little car in the subcompact class. We have owned three Hyundais, and while the base options on the Kona are of lower quality than the 2017 Tucson we also own, we believe that the bugs can be remedied for a successful new car launch.