
The Hyundai Kona is undeniably popular, getting so much social media engagements and reactions ever since it debuted at the 2018 Manila International Auto Show. Even at mall displays, it gathers a number of people around mainly because of its compelling looks that’s a bit different from what Filipinos have been seeing on the road.
While the Kona is head-turning and has proven its great driving dynamics in my general review, the technology it offers is questionable. Here’s a closer look into the Kona’s technology features, along with its safety equipment that comes with its price P1,118,000 price tag.
Stripped-down tech offering
No, this doesn’t mean that the Kona is stripped down to just bare essentials. It still has convenient tech features for the driver – things that actually matter, I must say.
It has speed-sending door locks to begin with, which kick in when you reach around 30 km/h. The side mirrors are also power adjustable, although folding them would be manual. The driver’s window is auto-down, as well, but pulling it up would require you to keep your finger on the lever, which isn’t a hard thing to do, really. Let me just remind you that there was a time when you have to manually roll windows up or down – something to confuse kids these days, but I digress.
The Kona has an active keyless entry where you just have to press a button on the door handles to unlock all the doors, provided that the key fob is with you. In combination with that, it also has a push-start ignition button and cruise control.
Probably the biggest downside of the Kona is its non-touchscreen, monochrome infotainment system. While most cars these days, including small entry-level nameplates, invest on bigger and better head units, Hyundai Philippines decided to go basic with its entertainment system. Admittedly, though, the monochrome display somehow blends well in the minimalist cabin, and smartphone connectivity isn’t too much of a problem; it has Bluetooth and iPod connectivity. Handsfree calls are clear and can be controlled via the buttons on the steering wheel. Fast-charging USB ports are limited to front passengers, though.
As a former musician, I must say that the speakers of the Kona produce a decent sound for normal listening pleasure – decent, but won’t probably suit the taste of music connoisseurs. It lacks clarity on highs and lows, even when the EQ is toggled. But for pop music where lyrics mostly matter, it gets a thumbs up from me.
Generous on safety
Aside from its driving dynamics, the Kona somehow stands out with its safety features. It has the standard ABS with EBD, while both the driver and front passenger get seatbelt reminders; my wife is very particular with this since she’s always with me when I’m driving.
In addition, the Kona has six airbags: two in the front, two on both sides, and two curtains. You might not actually feel the effect of these things but when push comes to shove, they could actually save your life. It also has ISOFIX child seat anchors and tire pressure monitors, along with an immobilizer for security.
The Kona also has a feature that’s often overlooked – the switching off of the daytime running lights. When you use your turn signals in Hyundai’s crossover, the daytime running light near it switches off. For the uninitiated, this process complies with the international safety standards for vehicles.
Specifications
Engine
2.0 LFuel Type
GasolinePerformance
147 hp @ 6,200 rpmTransmission
Automatic-
Summary
-
Name Hyundai Kona 2.0 GLS AT Body Type Crossover Price ₱1,188,000 Transmission Type Automatic -
Engine
-
Engine Size 2.0 L Displacement 1,999 cc Number of Cylinders 4 Number of Valves 16 Transmission Category 6-Speed Automatic -
Performance
-
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive Max Output (HP) 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm Max Torque (nm) 179 Nm @ 4,500 rpm Acceleration Rate n/a Top Speed n/a -
Economy & Environment
-
Fuel Type Gasoline CO2 Emission n/a Fuel Capacity 50 L Fuel Consumption 6.4 L/100 km Range n/a -
Dimensions
-
Length 4,165 mm Width 1,800 mm Height 1,550 mm Wheelbase 2,600 mm Turning Circle 10.6 m Ground Clearance 170 mm Wading Depth 50 cm Trunk Capacity 543 L Max Cargo 1,297 L Number of Doors 5 Number of Seats 5 -
Safety & Security
-
Driver's Airbag Front Passenger's Airbag Side Airbags Curtain Airbags Knee Airbag Auto Brake System Electronic Brake Distribution Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) Anti-lock Brake System
Immobilizer Security Alarm Stability Control Electronic Door Locks Speed Sensing Door Locks ISOFIX Lane Departure Warning System Blind-Spot Detection System -
Features
-
Cruise Control Front Parking Sensors Rear Parking Sensors Leather Upholstery Push Start Button Wheel Size 17 in Wheels Metal Type Alloy Airconditioning System Manual Air-Conditioning with Vents Entertainment System Radio+RDS w/ Mono LCD via 6 speakers Connectivity Aux, USB, Bluetooth Navigation Ready Warranty 5 Years (Unlimited Mileage) Keyless Entry Roof Rack Sunroof Electric Adjustable Seats Power Steering Power Windows Power Outlet Steering Wheel Audio Control -
Technology
-
Active Park Assist Hill Start Assist AWD Modes n/a Tire Pressure Monitoring Heads-up Display Power Liftgate Start-stop System
Colors
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