Hyundai Kona facelift launch confirmed for April 16

KUALA LUMPUR: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has confirmed the arrival of the Kona facelift in the country. It will be a virtual launch (due to pandemic) and will take place on April 16, at 10.30 a.m.The original Kona arrived in Malaysia less than a year back, i.e., on October 30, 2020. And back then, in a three days gap, Hyundai Europe announced the Kona facelift. Thus, marking the late arrival of the compact SUV at our shoes, however, it still looks unique as ever.

Coming to the Kona facelift, it will arrive in a new N Line trim option. So, now we have Kona available in two distinct faces. The normal Kona that appeared on the official teaser showcases a wider grille, and above it sits the brand logo. The letterbox vent is no longer available. On the dimensions front, the overall length is increased by 40 mm.

Other exterior bits include -

• Distinctive ‘eyebrow’ LED DRLs
• Black plastic wheel arch a cladding with lamp surrounds
• Black bits around front and rear ends
• New tail lamp graphics
• New lower tire lights shape
• New 17- and 18-inch wheels

Coming to the N Line model, it looks like the pre-facelift Kona as the logo still rests in the grille. Also, present is a vent above the grille that’s divided into three parts. Further, we see no full-width. Furthermore, its exterior includes -

• N-style aerodynamic lip with low-lying corner fins
• Large and more technical air intake
• Unique mesh grille design
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Huge diffuser with twin pipes
• Small rear fins for better flow

Open the doors and you will be welcomed by a more sophisticated cabin with improved quality material all-around. While the basic layout remains the same, the console is now disconnected from the centre stack. The new inclusions include - ambient lighting for front foot wells and centre cup holders, electric parking brake, aluminium finish around air vents and speakers.

For connectivity and tech, Hyundai has fitted the Kona with a 10.25-inch digital cluster, 10.25-inch AVN screen with split-screen function and Bluetooth connection. The 8-inch touchscreen audio system supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The voice recognition function now takes care of the steering wheel, side mirror, climate, and side mirror heating function. The Blue Link system is upgraded to include Free Text Search, Last Mile Navigation, Line Parking Information, and Connected Routing. Along with black, Hyundai is also offering a light beige cabin option. The khaki leather seats come with a matching brown center console and together it all looks super beautiful.

Powering the Kona is an enhanced 1.6-litre T-GDI Smartstream powertrain that makes a maximum power of 198 PS. The mill is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and it can be had in either 2WD or 4WD option. The 1.6-litre Smartstream diesel mill comes with 48-volt mild-hybrid tech making 136 PS. It can be had with either a 6-speed Intelligent manual or 7-speed DCT transmission. The base 1.0-litre T-GDI Smartstream petrol mill is also equipped with mild-hybrid tech and 6iMT, generating 120 PS. The non-mild hybrid unit comes with the DCT and regular 6-speed manual gearbox.

So, what are your thoughts on the facelifted Kona? Do let us know in the comment section.

Also Read: All-new 2021 Hyundai Kona N revealed