Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2019 Hyundai Kona review for Canada, a subcompact SUV that made quite a splash when it hit the market. This little Kona quickly became a favorite among Canadians, and for good reason! We're talking about a vehicle that's stylish, practical, and surprisingly fun to drive, all rolled into one compact package. This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know about the 2019 Kona, from its performance and fuel economy to its interior features and safety ratings. So, buckle up, and let's explore why the Kona was, and still is, a popular choice for those navigating the bustling streets of Toronto, the scenic routes of British Columbia, or anywhere in between.

Driving Experience and Performance of the 2019 Hyundai Kona

The 2019 Hyundai Kona offers a driving experience that’s both engaging and practical. The available engines played a significant role in how the Kona performed. The base engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivered a respectable 147 horsepower. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, which offers smooth and reliable shifts, perfect for daily commutes and city driving. The Kona’s handling is another highlight, with a tight turning radius and responsive steering that make it a breeze to maneuver through traffic and park in tight spots – a real bonus for city dwellers! For those craving a bit more punch, the Kona offered an available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which cranks out a more spirited 175 horsepower. This engine comes with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing quicker acceleration and a more engaging driving experience. This turbo engine version is genuinely peppy, making merging onto highways and overtaking other vehicles much more effortless.

One of the significant advantages of the 2019 Kona is its availability with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The FWD models are lighter and typically offer slightly better fuel economy, ideal for those who primarily drive in urban environments with relatively mild weather conditions. The AWD system, however, is a game-changer for Canadian drivers. It provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in snowy or icy conditions. This makes the Kona a confident choice for navigating challenging winter roads or tackling weekend adventures. The Kona's suspension is tuned to strike a balance between comfort and sportiness. It absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road reasonably well, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. At the same time, the Kona's compact size and nimble handling characteristics make it surprisingly fun to drive on twisty roads. The Kona’s performance isn't just about speed; it's about the overall driving experience. It's a car that feels confident and capable in various driving situations, whether you're cruising down the highway or navigating city streets. The Kona's responsiveness and easy handling make it a joy to drive. So, if you're looking for a subcompact SUV that is practical and enjoyable, the 2019 Hyundai Kona should be on your list.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality of the 2019 Kona

Let’s chat about fuel efficiency and practicality, crucial factors for any car buyer, especially in Canada. The 2019 Hyundai Kona boasts impressive fuel economy figures, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving. The base 2.0-liter engine, when paired with front-wheel drive, typically delivers around 7.9 L/100km in combined city/highway driving. This is pretty impressive, given the price of gas and the fact it’s an SUV. The 1.6-liter turbo engine, while more powerful, still manages to maintain decent fuel efficiency, averaging around 8.2 L/100km in combined driving. This means you won’t have to break the bank at the pump, even with the added performance. The Kona's practicality extends beyond its fuel efficiency.

The interior is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV. While it’s not the biggest SUV on the market, the Kona makes excellent use of its interior space. The front seats offer good head and legroom, providing a comfortable driving position for various body types. The rear seats are suitable for adults on shorter trips, but they might feel a bit cramped on longer journeys. However, the Kona’s cargo space is impressive for its size. With the rear seats up, you have a respectable amount of space for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. Folding down the rear seats significantly expands the cargo area, making it easy to accommodate larger items like bikes or furniture. The Kona also features various storage compartments throughout the cabin, including a center console, door pockets, and a glove compartment. These compartments provide convenient storage for small items like phones, wallets, and drinks, keeping the interior organized and clutter-free. The Kona's practicality is further enhanced by its user-friendly features. The infotainment system is straightforward and easy to navigate. The Kona's compact size also makes it easy to park and maneuver in tight spaces, a significant advantage for city driving.

Interior, Technology, and Trim Levels

Let's get into the interior, technology, and trim levels of the 2019 Hyundai Kona. The interior of the 2019 Kona is stylish and well-designed, with quality materials and a modern aesthetic. The dashboard features a clean layout, with an easy-to-use infotainment system and well-placed controls. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. The Kona offers a variety of trim levels, each with its features and equipment. The base trim, often called the Essential or SE, provides a good value with standard features like a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and a suite of advanced safety features. Upgrading to the Preferred or Trend trim adds features such as heated front seats, a blind-spot monitoring system, and a sunroof. The top-of-the-line Ultimate trim boasts premium features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and advanced driver-assistance technologies.

Regarding technology, the 2019 Kona is well-equipped for its class. The infotainment system features a user-friendly touchscreen display that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system, providing access to navigation, music streaming, and other apps. The Kona also offers available features like a wireless charging pad, a head-up display, and a premium audio system. These features enhance the overall driving experience and add convenience. In terms of trim levels, the 2019 Hyundai Kona typically comes in several variations to cater to different needs and budgets. The base trim provides essential features at an affordable price point. Upgrading to higher trims unlocks additional features and amenities, such as advanced safety features, premium materials, and enhanced technology. The Kona's trim levels offer a balance of value and features, allowing buyers to customize their vehicle to their preferences.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is paramount, and the 2019 Hyundai Kona scores high marks in this area. The Kona is equipped with a range of advanced safety features designed to protect occupants in a collision and help prevent accidents. Standard safety features include a rearview camera, electronic stability control, and a comprehensive airbag system. Available safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These advanced driver-assistance systems provide an extra layer of protection and help to enhance driver awareness. The 2019 Kona has consistently performed well in crash tests conducted by independent safety organizations, earning high ratings for occupant protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the 2019 Kona with a Top Safety Pick+ rating, the highest designation. This recognition demonstrates the Kona’s ability to protect occupants in a collision and its effectiveness in preventing accidents.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also gave the 2019 Kona positive safety ratings, further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. These safety ratings are a testament to Hyundai's commitment to safety and provide peace of mind to drivers and passengers. The Kona’s safety features contribute to its overall value as a safe and reliable vehicle for Canadian drivers. The inclusion of advanced safety features, along with its excellent crash test ratings, makes the Kona a smart choice for families and anyone prioritizing safety on the road. The Kona’s impressive safety features and ratings make it a standout choice in the subcompact SUV segment. These ratings highlight the Kona's ability to protect occupants and help prevent accidents, providing drivers and passengers with confidence on the road.

Pros and Cons of the 2019 Hyundai Kona

Let’s break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Hyundai Kona to provide a balanced overview for potential buyers.

Pros:

• Stylish Design: The Kona’s distinctive and eye-catching design sets it apart from other subcompact SUVs, with its bold front fascia, sleek profile, and available two-tone color options. This adds a level of personality and flair that appeals to many drivers.
• Fuel Efficiency: The Kona offers excellent fuel economy, particularly with the base engine, making it a cost-effective choice for daily commutes and long drives. This is a significant advantage, especially with fluctuating gas prices.
• Nimble Handling: The Kona is known for its responsive steering and compact size, making it easy to maneuver and park in tight urban environments. This is a practical benefit for drivers navigating city streets.
• Available AWD: The availability of all-wheel drive enhances the Kona's capability in various weather conditions, providing improved traction and stability, especially in snowy or icy climates. This feature is particularly valuable for Canadian drivers.
• User-Friendly Technology: The Kona's infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration for seamless smartphone connectivity. This adds convenience and enhances the overall driving experience.
• Safety Ratings: The Kona has earned high safety ratings from leading organizations like IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind to drivers and passengers. The safety features and ratings make it a reliable choice.

Cons:

• Rear Passenger Space: The rear seats might feel cramped for adults on longer journeys, which could be a limitation for those who frequently transport passengers. This is a common trade-off in subcompact SUVs.
• Cargo Space: Although the cargo area is sufficient for everyday needs, it may not be as spacious as some larger SUVs, especially with the rear seats up. This could be a consideration for those who often carry large items.
• Base Engine Performance: While adequate for daily driving, the base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when accelerating or merging onto highways. The turbo engine addresses this concern but adds to the cost.
• Ride Quality: The ride quality can be a bit firm, particularly on rough roads, which could impact overall comfort for some passengers. This is a common characteristic of smaller vehicles with a focus on sporty handling.

Final Thoughts on the 2019 Hyundai Kona in Canada

To sum it all up, the 2019 Hyundai Kona remains a compelling choice in the Canadian subcompact SUV market. Its stylish design, fuel efficiency, nimble handling, and available AWD make it well-suited for various driving conditions and lifestyles. While there are some trade-offs in terms of rear passenger and cargo space, the Kona offers a well-rounded package with a good balance of features, performance, and value. The Kona is an excellent option for those seeking a practical, efficient, and enjoyable-to-drive SUV. The 2019 Hyundai Kona is a standout option in the subcompact SUV segment. Its mix of style, features, and performance has made it a favorite among Canadian drivers. If you're looking for a vehicle that's fun to drive, easy to maneuver, and offers excellent value, the Kona is definitely worth considering. Its combination of features and capabilities makes it a smart choice for those seeking a compact SUV that delivers on style and substance. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring the scenic routes of Canada, the 2019 Hyundai Kona offers a compelling driving experience. So, go check it out, and see if it's the perfect match for you!