The Hyundai Kona has become a popular choice for drivers seeking a versatile and stylish vehicle. One of the most common questions potential buyers have is about its size: Is the Hyundai Kona a small or medium SUV? Understanding its dimensions and how it compares to other vehicles in its class is crucial for making an informed decision.
Hyundai Kona: Key Dimensions and Specifications
| Feature | Measurement (Approximate) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exterior Dimensions | ||
| Length | 165 inches (419 cm) | Varies slightly based on model year and trim. |
| Width | 71 inches (180 cm) | Measured without mirrors. |
| Height | 61 inches (155 cm) | Varies slightly based on trim and drivetrain (FWD vs. AWD). |
| Wheelbase | 102.4 inches (260 cm) | A longer wheelbase generally contributes to a smoother ride. |
| Interior Dimensions | ||
| Front Headroom | 39.6 inches (101 cm) | Varies slightly depending on the presence of a sunroof. |
| Front Legroom | 41.5 inches (105 cm) | |
| Rear Headroom | 37.8 inches (96 cm) | |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 inches (88 cm) | This is a key area that defines the Kona's position in the small SUV segment. |
| Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Up) | 19.2 cubic feet (544 liters) | Suitable for groceries or a few suitcases. |
| Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Down) | 45.8 cubic feet (1297 liters) | Provides ample space for larger items, though still less than many compact SUVs. |
| Other Considerations | ||
| Curb Weight | 2,963 - 3,530 lbs (1344-1601 kg) | Weight varies significantly based on trim level, engine, and drivetrain. The Electric version is considerably heavier. |
| Seating Capacity | 5 People | While it technically seats five, rear passengers might find it cramped on longer trips. |
| EPA Classification | Small SUV | This is the official classification by the Environmental Protection Agency. |
Detailed Explanations
Exterior Dimensions: The Hyundai Kona's exterior dimensions, specifically its length, width, and height, are key indicators of its overall size. Its relatively short length makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments and park in tight spaces. The width provides adequate cabin space without being overly bulky. The height is typical for a subcompact SUV, offering a good balance between ground clearance and roofline.
Length: At approximately 165 inches, the Kona's length firmly places it in the subcompact SUV category. This shorter length is a significant factor in its maneuverability and ease of parking.
Width: The Kona's width of around 71 inches contributes to its stability and provides sufficient space for passengers within the cabin. This width is comparable to other vehicles in the subcompact SUV class.
Height: The height of approximately 61 inches gives the Kona a good ground clearance, making it suitable for various road conditions. It also provides sufficient headroom for both front and rear passengers.
Wheelbase: The wheelbase, the distance between the front and rear axles, affects the ride quality and stability of the vehicle. The Kona's wheelbase of 102.4 inches contributes to a relatively smooth and stable ride, especially compared to vehicles with shorter wheelbases.
Interior Dimensions: The interior dimensions, including headroom and legroom, are crucial for passenger comfort. While the front seats offer adequate space, the rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller adults, particularly on longer journeys.
Front Headroom: The front headroom of 39.6 inches provides ample space for most drivers and front passengers. This ensures a comfortable and airy feel in the front of the cabin.
Front Legroom: The front legroom of 41.5 inches is generous and allows for comfortable driving and passenger positioning. This is a key selling point for taller individuals.
Rear Headroom: The rear headroom of 37.8 inches is adequate for average-sized adults but may feel a bit tight for taller individuals. This is a common characteristic of subcompact SUVs.
Rear Legroom: The rear legroom of 34.6 inches is where the Kona's size becomes most apparent. This space is limited and may not be comfortable for adults on longer trips. It is more suitable for children or shorter adults.
Cargo Volume: The cargo volume, both with the rear seats up and down, determines the Kona's practicality for carrying luggage, groceries, and other items. While the cargo space is decent for its class, it's significantly smaller than that of a compact SUV.
Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Up): 19.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up is sufficient for everyday use, such as grocery shopping or carrying a few suitcases.
Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Down): 45.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down significantly increases the Kona's carrying capacity, allowing for larger items to be transported. However, it still falls short of the cargo space offered by larger SUVs.
Curb Weight: The curb weight, the weight of the vehicle without passengers or cargo, affects its fuel efficiency and handling. The Kona's curb weight is relatively light, which contributes to its nimble handling and decent fuel economy. The electric version is significantly heavier due to the battery pack.
Seating Capacity: The Hyundai Kona is designed to seat five passengers. However, due to its smaller size, the rear seats are best suited for two adults or three children.
EPA Classification: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) officially classifies the Hyundai Kona as a Small SUV. This classification is based on its interior passenger and cargo volume.
Hyundai Kona vs. Competitors: Size Comparison
To further illustrate the Kona's size, let's compare it to some of its competitors in the subcompact SUV and compact SUV segments:
| Vehicle | Length (inches) | Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Up) (cubic feet) | Cargo Volume (Rear Seats Down) (cubic feet) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona | 165 | 19.2 | 45.8 |
| Mazda CX-30 | 173 | 20.2 | 45.2 |
| Kia Seltos | 172 | 26.6 | 62.8 |
| Honda HR-V (Newer Gen) | 179.8 | 24.4 | 55.1 |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | 176 | 25.5 | 66.8 |
| Hyundai Tucson | 182.3 | 38.7 | 74.8 |
Observations from the Comparison:
- The Kona is one of the shortest vehicles in this comparison, highlighting its subcompact status.
- Its cargo volume, both with the rear seats up and down, is smaller than most of its competitors, especially the Kia Seltos, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Hyundai Tucson.
- The Hyundai Tucson, a compact SUV, is significantly longer and offers considerably more cargo space, demonstrating the size difference between the subcompact and compact SUV segments.
Factors Influencing the Perception of Size
Several factors can influence a person's perception of a vehicle's size:
- Exterior Design: The Kona's bold and distinctive design, with its split headlights and chunky cladding, can make it appear larger than it actually is.
- Interior Layout: The interior layout and the use of space can also affect the perception of size. A well-designed interior can make a small vehicle feel more spacious.
- Seating Position: A higher seating position can give the driver a greater sense of command and control, which can contribute to the feeling of driving a larger vehicle.
- Driving Experience: The Kona's nimble handling and responsive engine can make it feel more agile and smaller than some of its competitors.
Intended Use Cases
The Hyundai Kona is well-suited for various use cases:
- City Driving: Its small size and maneuverability make it ideal for navigating crowded city streets and parking in tight spaces.
- Commuting: Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it a good choice for daily commuting.
- First-Time Car Buyers: Its affordability and features make it an attractive option for first-time car buyers.
- Small Families: While the rear seats may be a bit cramped for adults, the Kona can comfortably accommodate small families with children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hyundai Kona a good family car? It depends on the size of your family. It's suitable for small families with children, but larger families may find the rear seats and cargo space too limited.
Is the Hyundai Kona fuel-efficient? Yes, the Kona is known for its good fuel economy, especially the non-turbo engine. The electric version offers zero-emission driving.
Is the Hyundai Kona comfortable for long drives? The front seats are comfortable, but rear passengers may find the legroom limited on longer journeys.
How does the Hyundai Kona compare to the Hyundai Venue? The Hyundai Venue is even smaller than the Kona and is considered a subcompact crossover. The Kona offers more power and available all-wheel drive.
Is the Hyundai Kona available with all-wheel drive? Yes, all-wheel drive is available on some trim levels of the Hyundai Kona.
What is the cargo capacity of the Hyundai Kona? The cargo capacity is 19.2 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats down.
Is the Hyundai Kona reliable? Hyundai has improved its reliability ratings in recent years, and the Kona is generally considered a reliable vehicle.
What are the main competitors of the Hyundai Kona? Main competitors include the Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, and Honda HR-V.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Kona is definitively a small SUV, specifically a subcompact SUV. Its dimensions, cargo capacity, and EPA classification all confirm this. While it offers a stylish design, a comfortable front cabin, and nimble handling, potential buyers should be aware of its limited rear passenger space and cargo volume, especially when compared to larger compact SUVs. For those seeking a fuel-efficient and easy-to-maneuver vehicle for city driving or commuting, the Hyundai Kona is an excellent choice.