Hyundai Kona launched in Malaysia, price starts at RM 115,888

KUALA LUMPUR: After previewing the all-new Kona back in September, Hyundai Malaysia today launched the compact SUV in the country through a virtual event on its social media handle. The launch of this fully-imported SUV came just three days after its rival, the Proton X50, which is a CKD model. 

Also read: Proton X50: All you need to know

The new Hyundai Kona is the brand’s entry in the B-segment SUV category, placed alongside the seven-seater Santa Fe and five-seater Tucson in the lineup. Named after the Big Island of Hawaii, it is based on a new compact SUV architecture that appeals to young Malaysians with an active trendy lifestyle. The automaker is offering the SUV in three versions - 2.0 Standard, 2.0 Mid, and 1.6 TGDi High, with prices starting at RM 115,888.

Talking about its style statement, the Korean SUV incorporates a modern design language with an expressive and powerful front end dominated by the cascading grille. Its urban smart armor exterior styling features a voluminous and aggressive body complemented by a low and wide stance. The bold exterior flaunts sleek LED lighting incorporating unique daytime running lights, LED taillamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, and much more. The LED headlights available in the top trim feature a Bi-function projection beam with static bending light.

The extravagant design continues inside also, which looks sharp with contrasting elements all around. This comprises stitching on the seats, coloured seatbelts, and steering wheel. The hi-tech cabin features available on the Hyundai Kona specs sheet include:

• 7-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto & Apple CarPlay connectivity
• 4.2-inch cluster metre
• Satellite navigation
• Head-Up Display
• Fully automatic climate control
• Auto cruise system
• Wireless charging pad
• Push button start
• 8-way adjustable driver seat with 2-way lumbar support

The variants with “2.0” designation are powered by a 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated four-pot gasoline engine generating a maximum power of 149 PS at 6,200 rpm and a peak torque of 179 Nm at 4,000 rpm.  In contrast, the top-spec variant gets a 1.6-litre turbocharged direct-injected four-cylinder with 177 PS at 5,500 rpm and 265 Nm torque at 1,500~4,500 rpm, which is best in class.

The NA engine houses a six-speed automatic transmission whereas the turbo diesel mill is paired with a seven-speed DCT that allows it to hit zero to 100 kmph mark in 7.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 210 kmph.

Hyundai has fitted the Kona with world-class safety features like six airbags, a Hyundai Smart Sense active safety suite comprising forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and smart cruise control.

Have a look at the Hyundai Kona price list:

Variant	Price (including sales tax exemption)
Hyundai Kona 2.0 Standard	RM 115,888
Hyundai Kona 2.0 Mid	RM 130,888
Hyundai Kona 1.6 TGDi High	RM 143,888

Interested customers can now book a test drive on Hyundai’s official website.

Also read: 2021 Hyundai i20 N supermini debuts with a hot makeover