2020 Hyundai Kona Review: Reliable Subcompact SUV With Affordable Running Costs

Nov 24, 2023

The 2020 Hyundai Kona lasts around 200,000 miles with some engine misfires and A/C system issues reported. At $16,975 to $26,998, it’s a good value for a practical small SUV with reasonable ownership costs as it ages.

The Good

There are great safety features available, the stereo system is easy to use and interior materials are relatively nice.

The Bad

Legroom is limited in the rear seats, the transmission is slow to change gears and the standard engine is not very powerful.

Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona a Good Used SUV?

Overall Rating 8/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Hyundai Kona since it offers some advanced technology paired with fun styling. Owner reviews praise the spacious rear seats, responsive steering, along with the safety features.
Interior, Comfort & Cargo 8/10 – Interior materials are nice for a compact SUV, the front seats offer good support, but cargo space is smaller than some competitors.
Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems found on the 2020 Kona. Models from 2018–2022 are all reasonably reliable small SUVs.
Performance 7/10 – The engines in the Kona are focused more on efficiency rather than power, making it not very fast.
Safety 9/10 – The 2020 Kona is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with lane keep assist, along with automatic emergency braking. Optional upgrades include adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.
Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is excellent at up to 30 MPG, offering 396 miles of range from the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are
Value 8/10 – The 2020 Hyundai Kona is less expensive than many other compact SUVs with some decent features, making it a good value for shoppers.

Positive Owner Reviews

Katie J

My Kona is light blue, small but spacious and easy to maneuver.

Pretty good on gas mileage, small but back seat and front seat have leg room. The trunk is pretty small, it is spacious if there are no backseat passengers and the seats can go down to expand the trunk. I love that there is a back arch adjustment in the driver's seat! That is definitely a first that I have seen. The charging station is amazing. I can plug in my phone and a passenger can have wireless charging for theirs.

Zola A

Kona blue link special and I love it.

It is great an lot of fun to drive every day, I love that is has blue link. I can start the ac before I get into a hot car, it is nice and cool and in the winter I do not have to get into a cold car, it is nice and warm. It has a lot of room and is very nice.

Jess C

Sleek style, great if you do not need a ton of backseat room, multiple models.

The acceleration is slow. It has a sport feature that often does not actually accelerate faster, the transmission seems to pause for around 10-20 seconds, rpm’s rev but the car does not move out if it is own way. Also, backseat has limited legroom. I love the compact SUV, the car overall, aside from the things mentioned has been perfect. I have owned the car for 4 months.

Katelyn A

It is just a comfortable, amazing, cute and reliable car!

I absolutely love my Hyundai Kona. I do not have any problems with it at all! It drives so smoothly, and I like the gas and brakes. That may sound like a weird thing to comment on, but after driving other similar model vehicles from other brands, I was most impressed and thought the Kona was the best value for it is price!

Rosie O

I am very happy with the Hyundai Kona is it compact and versatile.

The 2020 Hyundai Kona is a very comfortable car. The features on this car make it very fun to drive. Some of those features include change lane warning and out of your lane warning as well. The back up camera lights up at night and the front panel display screen is large. The sound system is also nice.

steve W

This vehicle will more than meet your expectations.

It is great and there are absolutely no problems whatsoever with this vehicle and it is fantastic on gas and looks and drives great. I have been more and more impressed at what this vehicle can do so go drive one and be impressed. There are absolutely no problems with vehicle, so go and check it out, you will love it.

Rick S

The Kona is a great car that can hold up to 5 passengers comfortably.

Overall, great and reliant vehicle. Have yet to drive it in the snow which will be the ultimate test of the car but has driven smoothly so far. The vehicle is extremely comfortable and has great features such as heated front seats, CarPlay, USB outlets and other great safety features.

John P

Smart and fuel efficient small-size SUV that packs deceptive power.

The Hyundai Kona is an excellent small-size SUV with outstanding gas mileage and a smooth ride. State of the art amenities allow seamless transition between mobile phone and car touchscreen. Gas mileage is approximately 30 mpg which leads to lower cost of ownership through the lifetime of the vehicle. Smooth ride and while horsepower is lower, it is not noticeable and the vehicle is capable of significantly fast acceleration. Touchscreen allows full transition of mobile phone capabilities in a hands free environment that makes driving significantly safer. Standard safety equipment included.

Negative Owner Reviews

s carpenter

A stable, reliable car

NO, I would not reccommend buying a Kona until they get rid of problems. I bought the car a in Nov and as of today I have driven it about 4 hours. When I picked it up it up the battery had to be jumped (excuse was lights were on in car dealership). Drove it 3 hours, parked it in my garage and next day it would not start, they came, jumped the battery, took it to dealership and changed the battery. I got it back the same afternoon. Parked it again in garage and the next day it would not start.!! They came, jumped it again and took it back to dealership. After a week and a half they decided that the radio was draining the battery even when the car was off (due to defect), that was several weeks ago and they are waiting for a new radio and battery. I was also initially told to start the car daily due to a lack of battery insulation in origional battery. I t is December and I have not had a car for all of this time. My family wants me to take them to return the car as they believe that it is a LEMON. I like the carbut am now worried about it. I bought a NEW car with a 10 year service because I am a elderly woman. I loved my old Hyundai but I would not reccommend this one.

jacqueline

Trying to end my lease

I’ve had 3 oil changes in under 7300 miles. I have a 2020 Hyundai Kona and there is definitely a defect with the engine. I burn through oil and cannot accelerate merging onto highways. This car has shut off while driving at low speeds, the reason according to my dealership is no oil - meanwhile no lights come on. In the process of filing a suit via lemon law.

Rob

Engine Issues

Engine destroyed after 8000 kms. Oil completely burnt out.6 weeks later and we still fighting with Hyundai over the outcome.

tom s

Burns Oil Engine ticking

Burned through 2 qts of oil in 2 months, 3000 miles. Engine started making ticking noise at 7000 miles. I feel the engine will fail any day now. Have appt with dealer on April 3rd.

SPH

Issues with the motor

Having a motor issue with a 2020 Kona. Wierd vibrations and poor acceleration anyone else? Been to the dealership, no answers

janeen Reid

Need help with 2019 Kona

I have a similar problems with my kona aswell, I have taken it to 3 different garages one being the dealership and they all say it is the tires. All tires are new both summer and winter. It has been working like a bag of garbage. It is really shaky on acceleration and sputtering on idle,to the point it almost shuts off.. Very frustrating. Only 45000 km and worked horrible since 25000. Wish I knew what was the cause ?

brian lindsley

Not happy with this car!

Im not happy with my 2019 kona 1.6T as i have had the check engine light come on 3 times now. I have the plug in code reader and plugged it in and said all cylinders had miss fired. 3 times now and not had it even a year yet. It also has like a idle issue when i sit and the car is running it shakes/vibrates the whole car. Also had some issues when i start up and take off it like sputters like its not getting gas or something. So unhappy with it. Also last week just noticed that when i go to lock the car the passenger door makes a weird buzz noize. Anyone else have these issues?

Shane

Engine Issues

I bought my car new and have owned it for less than a year. At about 10k miles, the engine started making an odd clicking noise. I am now at just about 15k miles and the engine has idled and shut off on me in the middle of a U-turn. I took it to get it serviced that day, and it looks like it might need some serious work... Not expecting this with a new car at all. Hyundai fortunately has some pretty good warranty programs, and therefore this shouldn’t be a huge out-of-pocket cost. That being said, I don’t think I would recommend the 2020 Hyundai Kona to anyone.

What Do Critics Say About the Hyundai Kona?

Consumer Reports says the 2020 Hyundai Kona is a playful and inexpensive small SUV with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
Edmunds rates the Hyundai Kona at 4.1/5, enjoying the nimble handling for a small SUV, but doesn’t like the cheap plastic panels in the cabin.
Kelley Blue Book users give the Kona a 4.3/5, praising the advanced standard active safety features, but owners don’t like the relatively small cargo capacity.

What Common Problems Does the 2020 Hyundai Kona Have?

Common problems found on the 2020 Hyundai Kona include engine misfires, the A/C not working, along with burnt out headlights. Overall, these problems are similar to some other small SUVs on the market, and repair costs are average.

Engine misfires are the most widespread complaint from 2020 Kona owners, showing up at around 45,000 miles. Usually, the problem is simply caused by dirty or fouled spark plugs. Changing out the plugs costs around $250, depending on local labor rates and fixes the issue.

The A/C not working is another problem found on some Kona models in the first 20,000 miles. In most cases, the problem is caused by an issue with the blower motor, which costs around $650 to replace. There are also some reports of issues with the A/C compressor, which is more expensive at around $1,200.

Burnt out headlights also show up on a lot of Kona models at roughly 10,000 miles. The bulbs simply burn out sooner than in some other cars on the market. Replacing the bulbs costs around $100, and there are some aftermarket bulbs which last longer.

There are two recalls on the 2020 Hyundai Kona, which is similar to other SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers improperly heat treated pistons which can damage the engine. Hyundai will inspect the pistons and if they find evidence of damage, they’ll replace the engine for free. The other recall covers a load carrying label, which they will replace with a new sticker.

How Long Will the 2020 Hyundai Kona Last?

A well-maintained 2020 Hyundai Kona can last around 200,000 miles, which is shorter than some other small SUVs like the Toyota C-HR. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other SUVs according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $435 per year.

As a used 2020 Kona reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the ignition coils for $170, brake hose costing $300, along with the purge valve which costs around $450.

Emily C

The Hyundai Kona is very reliable. The safety features are really helpful in keeping me safe. I have not run into any problems so far.

Jocely A

Yes. I have only had the car for a few months and so far I haven't had any trouble. The windows in the rear are small and view is a bit difficult but with camera and sensors help.

Becky P

I have had this car for about 1 1/2 months. It has never given me any problems so yes it is a reliable vehicle.

How Is the Technology?

The standard entertainment technology is great, and features a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Optional upgrades include a larger 8-inch touchscreen, and an Infinity stereo system.

Standard safety technology is very good for a budget-friendly SUV with:

Forward collision warning
Lane departure warning
Driver attention monitoring
Automatic emergency braking
Lane keep assist
Rearview camera

Optional driver assistance features include:

Blind spot monitoring
Adaptive cruise control
Pedestrian detection
Rain-sensing windshield wipers
Rear cross traffic alert
Automatic high-beam headlights
Head-up display
Rear parking sensors

Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona a Good Value?

Yes, the 2020 Hyundai Kona is a decent value since it’s cheaper than many other compact SUVs on the market and has a lot of good features. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $16,975 to $26,998, making it less than a Mazda CX-5 or Honda CR-V. When new, the price range was $20,300 to $29,350. Depreciation is similar to other SUVs, losing about 6% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Hyundai Kona?

There are five main models of the 2020 Hyundai Kona offered from the SE through to the Ultimate. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

SE is the entry-level model with:

Alloy wheels
Remote keyless entry
Air conditioning
Rearview camera
Bluetooth connectivity
7-inch infotainment touchscreen
Two USB ports
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
Forward collision warning
Automatic emergency braking
Lane keeping assist
Six-speaker audio system
Cloth upholstery
Six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat
Lane departure warning
Driver attention monitoring

SEL is a step up, with:

Roof rails
Keyless entry and ignition
Heated front seats
Blind-spot monitoring
Satellite radio
HD Radio
Rear cross traffic alert
Heated outside mirrors
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Leather-wrapped shift knob
Adds over SE features

SEL Plus adds features including:

Sunroof
Power-adjustable driver’s seat
Eight-speaker Infinity audio system
Wireless smartphone charging pad
Hyundai’s Blue Link communications system
Fog lights
2-inch driver information display
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Universal garage door opener
Upgrades over SEL features

Limited has more items such as:

Turbocharged engine
LED headlights and taillights
Upgraded exterior trim
Automatic climate control
Leather upholstery
Auto-dimming rearview mirror
Builds on SEL Plus features

Ultimate is the flagship model with:

Rear parking sensors
Pedestrian detection for forward collision system
Adaptive cruise control
Automatic high beams
Automatic wipers
Head-up display
8-inch touchscreen
Navigation system
Keeps the turbocharged engine
Encompasses all features from Limited trim

147 HP 28 MPG

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SEL

147 HP 28 MPG

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SEL Plus

147 HP 28 MPG

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Limited

175 HP 27 MPG

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Ultimate

175 HP 27 MPG

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What Engines Come In the Hyundai Kona?

The 2020 Hyundai Kona comes with two engine options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 147 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and delivers a combined fuel economy of around 30 MPG. With this setup, the Kona can accelerate from 0 to 60 MPH in approximately 10 seconds.

For those seeking more pep, there’s a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that offers a more spirited 175 horsepower. This turbocharged variant is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and achieves a combined fuel economy near 30 MPG as well. The 1.6-liter engine enhances the Kona’s performance, reducing the 0 to 60 MPH time to around 7.5 seconds, providing a noticeably quicker and more responsive driving experience.

What Colors Does the Hyundai Kona Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Hyundai Kona?

The 2020 Hyundai Kona is generally regarded as a comfortable compact SUV, particularly praised for its smooth ride quality and supportive seats. The Kona’s suspension is designed to absorb most road imperfections, thereby providing a composed and comfortable ride even on rougher surfaces. The front seats are well-bolstered, offering good support during long drives, which helps in reducing fatigue. The cabin is cozy, with enough head- and legroom for front-seat occupants to feel at ease. While the rear seats may be a bit snug for taller adults, they are perfectly serviceable for children or shorter adults on shorter trips.

In terms of interior amenities, the Kona comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that contributes to the overall comfort by allowing easy control of entertainment and vehicle settings. Noise insulation is decent for the class, keeping the cabin relatively quiet from wind and moderate road noise. However, some reviewers note that engine noise can be noticeable under heavy acceleration. Climate control is typically effective, and higher trims offer additional comforts such as heated seats and a sunroof, enhancing the overall experience. Overall, the 2020 Kona offers a pleasant and comfortable ride that’s appropriate for its segment, making it a solid choice for daily commuting and weekend getaways.

How Much Storage Space Does the Hyundai Kona Have?

The 2020 Hyundai Kona offers a practical and user-friendly storage space, tailored to accommodate the varied needs of its occupants. Behind the rear seats, owners can expect to find about 19.2 cubic feet of cargo room, which is ample space for day-to-day errands like grocery shopping, or for stowing away items such as a couple of small suitcases or a stroller. When more space is needed, the rear seats can be folded down to expand the cargo area to approximately 45.8 cubic feet, providing enough room for larger items like bicycles or a significant amount of camping gear.

In addition to the primary cargo area, the Kona also includes several cleverly designed small storage spaces within the cabin to enhance the convenience for passengers. The center console offers a tray and bin that can hold personal items such as smartphones, wallets, and keys. Door pockets are available for additional small items, and cupholders are strategically placed for easy access. The glove compartment and a sunglasses holder offer further storage, ensuring that everything from essential documents to small snacks can be neatly organized and within reach for a comfortable and clutter-free journey.

What Are the Differences Between Years?

The Kona was introduced for the 2018 model year as a new small SUV from Hyundai.

2018: First model year for the Hyundai Kona which was launched as a small SUV with some sportier styling elements.

2019: Small adjustment in standard features and more safety technology features on all models.

2020: Kona Ultimate model now has adaptive cruise control.

2021: Night edition model launched with black exterior trim pieces.

2022: Minor exterior styling changes, stronger engine available on the Kona N Line model.

How Does the Hyundai Kona Compare to the Competition?

The 2020 Hyundai Kona is a good small SUV if you’re looking for something that’s practical, has advanced technology, and unique styling.

The Hyundai Tucson is a slightly larger SUV from Hyundai which costs around $2,000 more. Passenger room is better in the back seats of the Hyundai Tucson, while the Hyundai Kona has more responsive steering. We recommend the Hyundai Tucson if you want a daily driver, but both are similar, and worth testing to see which you prefer.

The Honda HR-V is another small SUV which is available for roughly $3,000 more. Ownership costs are slightly lower on the Honda HR-V, while the Hyundai Kona offers more driver assistance technology. We recommend the Honda HR-V, but both are worth looking at if you’re in the market for a subcompact SUV.

Ranks #21 Compact SUV by Owners

Tie

2020 FIAT 500X

Tie

2020 MINI Countryman

2020 Hyundai Kona

4.39

Do Owners Recommend the Hyundai Kona?

Emily C

Yes it is a very good vehicle. Has a lot of safety features. It also has leather seats and sunroof. The price is okay with all the features that it comes with.

Jocely A

Yes it has all the safety features at a reasonable price. So far is great value. It is compact but has enough room to transport small.Loads. Pretty good gas mileage.

Becky P

Yes I am enjoying it very much. It is the first time I have owned a Hyundai. I like the driver assist feature. I like the apple-play feature too.

Owner Reviews

Write a Review

Nita G on June 25, 2021

Hyundai reliability is the reason I chose it.

It is a very comfortable vehicle and handles well. It has abs as a standard feature and traction control. I feel Hyundai is a very reliable car brand and is financially affordable. It has many different styles and trim available. My previous car was a Hyundai and I had very few issues.

Suyon K on June 25, 2021

Hyundai Kona 2020 review!

This car has no issues, sometimes the accelerator is not that responsive but other than that it is the perfect car for every day commute and going out of the city for longer trips. Apple car play is a great feature that really helps me personalize my drive.

Shane on June 22, 2021

Engine Issues

Ashley W on June 22, 2021

5 stars for my Hyundai Kona!

I have owned my Hyundai Kona (limited) for 8 months and love it so far. In terms of aesthetics, it is spacious, has really clean lines, the apple play sync is a must for the navigation. I paid extra for the ceramic coating and it was worth the extra charge. When washing my vehicle it is so slick and easy to clean. Performance wise, it drives so smooth. When considering this vehicle I also test drove the Toyota ch-r, which is of similar size and shape, and there was no comparison to be made. The Hyundai felt immediately superior. The only con I have to say is that the trunk is a bit small, smaller than my previous coupe and that takes some getting used to.

Scott E on June 19, 2021

Hyundai Kona: a smooth and safe SUV.

Great gas mileage for an SUV. Smooth and confident driver. Very safe, with the latest anti-collision features. My only negative is the lack of pick-up from a dead stop. Acceleration could be better. Overall, the Hyundai Kona is a great car and I and my wife look forward to many good years in it.

Bella S on June 11, 2021

White Kona black under trim black.

I really like the car. It is a compact SUV and I have the basic model with no other attachments such as the heated or powered seats. Other than that it is a good car. It gets good gas mileage at around 32 mpg. Seats and steering feel great. And it even has sport mode when you feel like going fast.

s carpenter on May 5, 2021

A stable, reliable car

Rob on May 3, 2021

Engine Issues

Engine destroyed after 8000 kms. Oil completely burnt out.6 weeks later and we still fighting with Hyundai over the outcome.

Alyssa B on May 2, 2021

The Hyundai Kona is a perfect car and offers many great features.

I haven't had any problems with this vehicle yet! I love the sport mode that allows that car to accelerate faster. I also love the heated seats and backup camera that displays on the large screen the Kona has for the radio! The trunk has a lot of space, as well. I love the colors the Kona comes in, too. I have the blue Kona and it is beautiful and I receive many comments on it!

SPH on April 29, 2021

Issues with the motor

Having a motor issue with a 2020 Kona. Wierd vibrations and poor acceleration anyone else? Been to the dealership, no answers

Imani H on April 28, 2021

One of the best so far I love it.

No problems so far but part costs are expensive. I would definitely suggest to make it better on gas mileage on the freeway. Other than that it is one of the best vehicles I have had. I am used to a bigger vehicle so this size is sort of smaller than I am used to.

Zola A on April 23, 2021

Kona blue link special and I love it.

Shatel M on April 21, 2021

My new car is amazing to me, best decision I can make.

The comfort of the car is great. It rides very smooth and the color of the car is a sky blue color. The interior is nice, no leather but nice. Its models an SUV type of car. It's a huge saver on gas which is big for me. I am really enjoying my new car. I have had this car for almost 2 months now.

Herman R on April 20, 2021

My opinion it is a good overall vehicle. I had a 2010 Tucson that was good.

My biggest problem is from the seat adjustments I can see the edge of the front fenders when driving. Other than that I have no other problems other than several low speed ruff shifts. I like everything else about the vehicle. I did not like the dealer and will change where I have it serviced.

Rick S on April 16, 2021

The Kona is a great car that can hold up to 5 passengers comfortably.

tom s on April 12, 2021

Burns Oil Engine ticking

Burned through 2 qts of oil in 2 months, 3000 miles. Engine started making ticking noise at 7000 miles. I feel the engine will fail any day now. Have appt with dealer on April 3rd.

Nancy C on April 8, 2021

Engine issues

I have the 2020 Hyundai Kona Highlander variant and at around 11000 kms and only 9mths old, I'm having engine issues. Heard clicking in engine, was told engine needs to be replaced 4-6wks on order. Day after they took that comment back and advised the engine will need to be pulled apart to photograph faulty part and have Hyundai assess first. They may only replace faulty part, instead of whole engine. Seeking engine replacement if anything as this is unacceptable for a new car.

Erika S on April 8, 2021

Reliable spacious vehicle with amazing trunk storage.

I recently purchased this car, I have always used ford I found them reliable. However when I found this one I couldn't say no. I have siblings the car is very spacious I have no complaints about the vehicle. I never have run into any problems with it honestly one of the most dependable cars I have ever had.

Patrick casey on April 6, 2021

Unbelievable for a new car

Beautiful car fun to drive until yesterday. Less than a year old 12k on the odometer and the engine died. Towed to the dealership this morning needs a new engine and 4-6 weeks or more repair time....what?!?!? Absolutely abysmal for basically a brand new car!! My VW despite some issues at over 400k fired up every time. Was thinking about buying a Hyundai for myself, after seeing what happened with my girlfriends car I don’t think so. Even talked with the CAA guy this morning he said he sees this all the time with Hyundai’s.

Mel P on March 30, 2021

The most bang for your buck.

Recently purchased, no issues to date. Includes sunroof, roof racks, heated leather seats, leather steering wheel, safety features such as collision and pedestrian warnings, lane-departure warnings and lane-keep assist, blind spot monitors and warnings, back up camera with cross-traffic warnings, upgraded rims and 7-speed turbo engine.

Katie J on March 30, 2021

My Kona is light blue, small but spacious and easy to maneuver.

Ray C on March 28, 2021

Excessive shaky when idle or at stop light

My 2020 1.6T AWD has excessive shaky issue when idle or at stop light. Not realize when new till couples months ago (< 5K miles). Went to three different locations Hyundai service, same answer from them, no error code and cannot duplicate the shaky issue. Even escalated to Hyundai Consumer Affair Dept. With Case#: 171979XX but they don't admit there has problem. Note: when the first time in service, I have talked to the service advisor, he said the tech felt the shaky, but there has no error code, so don't know what to fix. I think Hyundai knows the issue but there has no fix at this point or the number of complains were too small that they don't care that much. The new car is for my wife, she loves it but cannot stand this issue, she's so angry that paid this amount of money to buy a new car with issue. I am going to raise my voice to BBB to see what they can help.

Alisia H. on March 24, 2021

Afforable but with a cost

Overall love my Surf Blue Kona 2020 SE. I've had it for almost 3 weeks now and had to have it towed due to gear shifting issues. It randomly made reverse and park unavailable to me, which is a catastrophic failure in my book. This made the key unable to be removed and thus drain the battery / make the car vulnerable to theft. Luckily it has a good warranty and the tow was free, but a new car like this should NOT be having issues like this right out of the gate. Unsure if the sports mode is what made the gear shift get wonky, but it sucks feeling like you can't use your car the way you want to because of mechanical failure to do what its designed to do.

jacqueline on March 24, 2021

Trying to end my lease

Aaron L on March 19, 2021

The car has a hatchback that my wife loves to load groceries.

I have had no problems with this car-it performance is very comfortable-the model makes it easy for my wife to load groceries-it comes with Sirius trial which plan on keeping. I have had no problems with running the car -the dealer added a hitch for the car do I was able to add my bicycles.

Brenda M on March 13, 2021

Love the driver's seat! The lumbar support is amazing.

I wish that the hatchback door popped open rather than having to use the button and lift - there is not even a way to pop it open from inside the vehicle. And I also was disappointed that climate control was not a feature in the sel plus trim. I find the temperature buttons to be ugly and cheap.

Rosie O on February 25, 2021

I am very happy with the Hyundai Kona is it compact and versatile.

Susie R on February 23, 2021

Hyundai Kona sel plus: a fun, elegant and practical compact SUV.

I like the way I sit higher for better visibility. It has many practical features like power driver's seat, heated front seats, heated side mirrors and self-adjusting rearview mirror for night vision. It is fun to drive and responds well. The android car app is great for navigation and the screen size is perfect. The adjustable lumbar support is good especially for road trips. The only thing I wish it had is an inside hatch release. Other than that I am very happy with my compact SUV. It is not too big or too small.

Paige A on February 15, 2021

Hyundai Kona lover, perfect for moms.

Love the car, great options on steering wheel and four wheel drive. Easy to use cruise control function and I love the interior. Roomy leg space. The only downside is the trunk is smaller than my previous Hyundai Elantra but makes up with it with the back seat space. Perfect for two car seats and the rigs are easy to clean.

Marissa B on February 9, 2021

I love the Hyundai Kona, definitely a must buy.

No problems, excellent car. I previously owned a 2005 Honda civic and never had any of the perks of having a smart car. Has backlight camera to help with parking and has side mirror sensors. Able to connect my phone and make phone calls through the car. It is such a compact car, compared to others. I can find parking easily.

Irene S on February 2, 2021

Super fun to drive. Love my Kona.

So much fun to drive and powerful. No lag at all, foot on the gas and it goes. Be careful, I got pulled over my first week for going too fast electric seats, seat warmers, AWD, turbo, moonroof, wireless charging and 3 years Hyundai blue link and emergency assistance. Leather interior.

brian lindsley on January 27, 2021

Not happy with this car!

John P on January 12, 2021

Smart and fuel efficient small-size SUV that packs deceptive power.

Chels G on January 10, 2021

2020 the ultimate mom car.

I love my 2020 Kona. It is low to the ground but it drives nice. A very nice compact car that gets great gas mileage. I love all of the features. It is simple inside but still offers a lot of modern features. I like the lane protection and auto brake alert.

Kevin D on January 10, 2021

The Kona is the perfect small SUV.

It is the perfect size for my wife and I (we have no children) but since it is an SUV with AWD, it gives us peace of mind for driving in the winter. It was affordable and is a Hyundai, which I have drive for years. I have had no trouble with Hyundai's in the past and I expect to have no problems with this one.

Kyla S on January 10, 2021

I am in love with my car but it will not work for every family.

I only wish the there was more room between the front seats and the back seats. My husband is tall and tends to squish the kids in the back by putting the seat back. The trunk is also on the smaller side so if I still had strollers I do not think this car would work for our family. Otherwise the car runs great.

Ann S on January 7, 2021

I am still breaking it in but have no complaints so far.

Did a lot of research before choosing this vehicle. Nice to have a ride that uses regular unleaded gas. Heated seats are a plus. Easy to drive with good highway performance. The 10 year powertrain and three year overall coverage is also solid. Buy it.

Hannah F on January 4, 2021

I love the orange color I get compliments on it all the time!

I love the assisted breaking and the lane assist. I especially love the sport mode as well. There were two times where I have to shut the car off and turn it back on again to reset the computer but otherwise I have not had any other issues. The rear camera is also extremely convenient.

Gina S on January 4, 2021

Hyundai Kona great crossover with lots of interactive electronics.

I recently bought my first Hyundai vehicle. I chose the Kona for its warranty, ease of driving and making turns, reliability, gas mileage and for its design. In the past I have driven sedans, and the Kona is a nice size crossover. Although the trunk is not overly large, it is a breeze to load and unload purchases. I chose the thunder gray paint as it has a nice metallic shine to it.

Lynn H on January 1, 2021

The Hyundai Kona- likes and dislikes in a snapshot.

My Kona is comfortable, has all the latest safety features, 2 things I would change- I wish it had seat memory, I hate having to readjust my seat when someone in the family moves it. Liftgate- you have to open it by hand- I would love a button on the key fob to do that.

Lisa T on December 16, 2020

A lot of bang for the buck.

I purchased my Kona after many reviews and researching best reliable care. The gas mileage has been great, it is a quiet smooth car. Has lots of power. It is cute and fun to drive. It features lane assist and has a sport drive that I can set that gives the car much more power and control.

Kristi Q on December 14, 2020

Customer recommended 2020 Hyundai Kona- “safe” investment.

I was drawn to the 2020 Hyundai Kona by its style. Of all the makes and models in its class, it has the sleekest style. It offers an impressive exterior color selection as well. I chose the Kona sel model. My Kona sel offers many safety features such as, lane assist, blind spot monitoring(including a lighted symbol in side mirrors), programmable door locking selections, cruise control with following distance setting, and wrap around air bags, just to name a few. One safety feature that this particular model does not have a is a factory installed alarm system. This feature is available on other models, and does typically reduce insurance premiums. Additional features of my Kona include apple CarPlay, Sirius XM radio, push to start, engine and tire pressure check, service settings/notifications, etc... This particular model did not include remote start, which I do miss. Whatever may be “missing” on my Hyundai Kona is more than made up for by the factors that sold me completely! Price, gas mileage, and warranty! No other car in its class gives you this much bang for your buck. All the features I have mentioned and more for just over $20k! It is frankly amazing. This plus the over 30 mpg would have been enough to bring me to the table, but I was beyond doubt that it was the car for me once I was given the rundown on the warranty offered by Hyundai. 6 years/60,000 miles bumper to bumper. No other car maker does that! And when I say bumper to bumper, I actually mean it! Including all electronics! Even the radio! And the ac! I am pretty content investing in a vehicle that the manufacturer will stand behind in that way!

Maddy S on December 2, 2020

Never going back: Hyundai Kona is a perfect crossover SUV.

Overall, I love the vehicle. It has a lot of great safety features like lane departure warning and collision warning which are super helpful. I also love that it has apple CarPlay so I can easily connect my phone and use GPS, send texts, receive and make calls, and control music. I love the high ceilings in the car, even super tall individuals can fit easily and comfortably in the vehicle. The car has tons of cargo space, especially considering its small size and can fit more than I expected. I wish the car had some extra features like heated seats, heated mirrors, and keyless entry/remote start, but those are relatively minor issues.

Adam W on November 30, 2020

Fun and awesome car: the best SUV out there for an incredible price.

Awesome car, good gas mileage, small but big enough for everything I need to carry around. It looks really cool with the headlights separated into two parts and the front seats are extremely spacious. Got a great deal on it, it is basically the cheapest SUV you can get brand new and it is well worth it.

JC on November 27, 2020

Couple of Problems

Love my Kona with a couple of exceptions. The dashboard is easily dinged and scratched and there is a roaring vibration noise from the rear while driving with the windows down. Dealership said normal for this vehicle. If I had heard it during the test drive. I wouldn’t have purchased it. Horrible noise! Can’t use the rear windows.

jen N on November 26, 2020

Lime green powerful machine.

Lovely car, drives very smooth, tight handling of the road. The twisted lime limited edition comes with leather interior and lime green trim. Sunroof, and three months of Sirius XM radio included as well. Its the little brother of the Tucson, and its a must have.

Jessica H on November 26, 2020

Ok family veh that has decent gas mileage.

The drivability is overall nice and the vehicle is overall nice it lacks some base level bells and whistle‘s that similar vehicles from General Motors would have and the trunk space it is just absolutely tiny only reason I went with this one is that my daughter fit in the back pretty well and she’s not a very big girl she’s only 5 foot five normally I drive the Elantra‘s but the new Elantra was so small in the back my daughter couldn’t fit in it part of me regrets getting in the car because of such little trunk space compared to my own vehicle before however having a warranty and lower car insurance with this new one is the only reason I went through with it.

janeen Reid on November 25, 2020

Need help with 2019 Kona

Viola B on November 22, 2020

It has a sunroof. Living in Houston this is great.

Overall great vehicle. Great if you are looking for an SUV but do not want something huge. It is great on gas. I used it for a road trip about 650 miles round trip and I only had to fill up 2 times. And it is not expensive to fill up so that is nice. It is kind of small. It seats 5 but only 3 or 4 comfortably. Great value for your money.

Victor B on November 21, 2020

Hyundai Kona: the best bang for your buck!

The 2020 Hyundai Kona is the best bang for your buck! I looked at dozens of other cars and not only did this car look the sharpest, but it was the least expensive and a top safety pick. I especially like that this vehicle has apple carplay installed. The screen is very clear and makes navigating to new places very easy!

Alex Showalter

Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.