A NEW hybrid-powered variant extends Hyundai’s Kona crossover SUV range.
Hyundai Motor said its introduction of the Kona Hybrid is a response to “European customers’ demands for more SUV-bodied eco-mobility models.” The Kona Hybrid adds to the gasoline engine and full-electric versions of the nameplate.
Hyundai said it has sold nearly 120,000 Kona models in Europe since October 2017.
The Kona Hybrid features Hyundai’s Kappa four-cylinder, 1.6-liter, GDI direct-injection gasoline engine that produces 104hp and 147Nm. The engine is paired to a permanent-magnet electric motor that makes another 43hp. Hyundai said a 1.56kWh lithium-ion polymer battery delivers outstanding charge and discharge performance, optimizing output from the high-voltage battery and allowing for rapid regeneration.
Matched to the hybrid powertrain is a six-speed dual-clutch transmission with a Sport mode and steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
“Hyundai already offers the widest range of powertrains, and with the launch of the Kona Hybrid we are offering our European customers even more choice when it comes to eco-friendly SUV models,” said Andreas-Christoph Hofmann, vice-president for marketing and product at Hyundai Motor Europe. “In addition to its stylish design and efficient hybrid powertrain, customers can now also enjoy cutting-edge connectivity features.”
Hyundai said the Kona Hybrid “inherits the same expressive design and ‘go anywhere’ attitude of the Kona and Kona Electric.” The vehicle gets Hyundai’s trademark cascading grille and headlamps with full LED. Besides the Blue Lagoon launch color, seven others are available. Two new wheel designs are offered, too. The 16-inch wheels are standard, the 18-inch wheels are optional.
Some of the connectivity features included in the Kona Hybrid are the Blue Link that allows drivers to lock or unlock the vehicle via a smartphone app,
mirror capability on a seven-inch screen via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, HEV-specific graphics, and an optional head-up display.
The Kona Hybrid’s safety systems include front collision warning and avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection ability, and smart cruise control. Optional items are lane following assist, intelligent speed limit warning, blind-spot collision warning, rear cross-traffic collision warning, driver attention warning, lane keeping assist and high beam assist.
Hyundai said the Kona Hybrid will reach European showrooms in August.
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