Hey car enthusiasts, let's dive into a comprehensive review of the 2019 Hyundai Kona, a subcompact SUV that made waves in the Canadian market. This spunky little crossover quickly gained popularity, and for good reason! The Kona offered a compelling package, blending stylish design, practical features, and an efficient driving experience. If you're pondering whether this is the right used car for you, or just curious about this model, stick around as we delve into the details that made the 2019 Kona a standout in its class. We'll go over everything from its performance and fuel economy to its interior comforts and technology, plus the all-important safety features. By the end of this review, you'll have a clear picture of what the 2019 Hyundai Kona brings to the table, and whether it aligns with your driving needs and preferences. So, buckle up, guys, and let's get started!

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what makes the 2019 Hyundai Kona move! In Canada, the Kona offered a couple of engine options, catering to different driving styles. The standard engine was a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering a respectable 147 horsepower. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing a smooth and predictable driving experience. It was well-suited for city driving and everyday commutes, offering sufficient power for merging onto highways and navigating through traffic. Now, for those who craved a bit more pep, there was an available 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This turbo engine cranked out a more impressive 175 horsepower, and it was coupled with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), resulting in quicker acceleration and a sportier feel. The DCT offered faster gear changes, enhancing the overall driving dynamics. Whether you opted for the base engine or the turbo, the Kona provided a comfortable ride. The suspension was tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, making for a pleasant experience even on less-than-perfect Canadian roads. The Kona also offered available all-wheel drive (AWD), which was a great choice for Canadian winters, improving traction and stability in snowy or icy conditions. The steering was responsive and provided good feedback, making the Kona feel nimble and easy to maneuver in tight spaces, which is a major plus for urban driving. Overall, the 2019 Hyundai Kona delivered a well-rounded driving experience, blending practicality with a touch of fun. The choice of engine and drivetrain allowed buyers to tailor the Kona to their specific needs, making it a versatile option for a wide range of drivers. The car handled well in all kinds of conditions, which is crucial for the varying weather conditions experienced in Canada.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a critical factor for many car buyers, and the 2019 Hyundai Kona performed quite well in this area. The standard 2.0-liter engine achieved competitive fuel economy figures, making it an economical choice for daily commutes and road trips. The fuel consumption varied slightly depending on whether you opted for front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). With FWD, the Kona typically delivered slightly better fuel economy, making it an excellent option for those prioritizing fuel savings. The 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, while offering more power, also maintained respectable fuel efficiency, thanks to its efficient design and the seven-speed DCT. It provided a good balance between performance and fuel economy. The specific fuel consumption numbers for the 2019 Kona were in line with its competitors in the subcompact SUV segment, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious drivers. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire pressure checks, can help ensure optimal fuel efficiency over the vehicle's lifespan. By considering the fuel economy figures, potential buyers could make an informed decision based on their driving habits and budget, as the Kona proved itself to be a sensible choice for those looking to save money at the pump. The fuel efficiency of the Kona, combined with its other features, made it a practical and attractive option for a wide array of drivers across Canada, adding to its overall appeal.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Let's step inside the 2019 Hyundai Kona and see what it offers in terms of comfort and technology! The Kona's interior design was modern and user-friendly, with a focus on practicality. The cabin offered comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer journeys. The materials used were of good quality for the segment, providing a pleasant and durable environment. The Kona's dashboard was well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear instrument cluster, ensuring that the driver could quickly access essential information. Standard features included a touchscreen infotainment system, providing access to audio, navigation (in some trims), and smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were also available, allowing drivers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones with the car's system. This enabled easy access to apps, music, and navigation, enhancing the overall driving experience. In terms of space, the Kona offered ample headroom and legroom for front passengers. Rear passengers also had a decent amount of space, although it was a subcompact SUV, so it might not be the most spacious for taller individuals on longer trips. Cargo space was also practical, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or other essentials. The rear seats could be folded down to create additional cargo capacity when needed. Higher trim levels of the Kona came with additional features like heated seats, leather upholstery, and a premium sound system, further enhancing the comfort and luxury of the interior. The availability of these features allowed buyers to customize the Kona to their preferences, whether they prioritized comfort, convenience, or entertainment. Overall, the 2019 Hyundai Kona's interior design and features made it a comfortable and tech-savvy option in its class, appealing to drivers looking for a practical and enjoyable driving experience. The interior was well-designed, functional, and equipped with technology that enhanced both the driving experience and the daily usability of the vehicle.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2019 Hyundai Kona didn't skimp on technology, especially when it came to its infotainment and connectivity features. At the heart of the system was a user-friendly touchscreen display, which served as the command center for various functions. The size of the screen varied depending on the trim level, but it was generally easy to see and navigate. Standard features included a basic infotainment system that offered access to audio, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free phone calls and music streaming, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels came equipped with a more advanced infotainment system, which often included navigation, offering turn-by-turn directions to help drivers find their way easily. One of the most significant advantages of the Kona's infotainment system was its seamless smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard or available, depending on the trim, allowing drivers to connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, music, and navigation directly on the car's touchscreen display. This integration made it easy to use apps like Spotify, Google Maps, and Apple Maps while driving, enhancing convenience and safety. The Kona also offered multiple USB ports, allowing passengers to charge their devices. This was a welcome feature, particularly for families or drivers who needed to keep their smartphones and other gadgets powered up. The availability of these features made the 2019 Hyundai Kona a tech-forward vehicle that appealed to drivers who wanted to stay connected on the road. The user-friendly interface, combined with smartphone integration and other connectivity options, made the Kona a modern and convenient choice in the subcompact SUV market. The connectivity features in the 2019 Kona were designed to make your driving experience more enjoyable and safer, keeping you connected to the world while you're on the move.

Safety Features

Safety is always a top priority, and the 2019 Hyundai Kona came equipped with a range of features to protect its occupants. Standard safety features included a comprehensive set of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags, to provide protection in the event of a collision. Electronic stability control and traction control systems were also standard, helping to maintain control and stability, especially in challenging driving conditions. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were another standard feature, preventing the wheels from locking up during hard braking and helping the driver maintain steering control. Beyond the basics, the Kona also offered a suite of advanced safety features, depending on the trim level. These included features like blind-spot monitoring, which alerted the driver to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist systems were also available, helping to prevent the vehicle from unintentionally drifting out of its lane. Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking were also available, using sensors to detect potential collisions and automatically applying the brakes to mitigate or avoid a crash. Adaptive cruise control was another available feature, allowing the driver to maintain a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety on the highway. The availability of these advanced safety features made the 2019 Hyundai Kona a strong contender in its class, offering drivers a high level of protection and peace of mind. The Kona received good safety ratings from reputable organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The combination of standard and available safety features made the 2019 Hyundai Kona an attractive option for drivers who valued safety above all else, providing them with the latest technologies to help prevent accidents and protect occupants.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2019 Hyundai Kona was offered in several trim levels, each with its own set of features and price points. The base trim level was generally the most affordable, offering essential features like the 2.0-liter engine, a touchscreen infotainment system, and a range of standard safety features. As you moved up the trim levels, you'd find more advanced features and amenities. The mid-level trims often included features like alloy wheels, heated front seats, and upgraded infotainment systems. The top-of-the-line trims often boasted features like leather upholstery, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced safety features. The price of the Kona varied depending on the trim level and the options selected. The base trim was competitively priced, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. The higher trim levels, while more expensive, offered a greater level of luxury and technology. When considering the price, it's essential to compare it to the features offered and to other vehicles in the subcompact SUV segment. The 2019 Hyundai Kona offered excellent value for money, thanks to its combination of features, performance, and price. When shopping for a used 2019 Kona, the price will depend on factors like the trim level, mileage, condition, and any additional features. It's a good idea to research the different trim levels and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best value for your money. Understanding the trim levels and pricing will help you find the 2019 Hyundai Kona that best suits your needs and budget. The availability of different trim levels allowed buyers to tailor the Kona to their preferences, from those prioritizing affordability to those seeking a more luxurious experience. This flexibility made the Kona a versatile option in the Canadian market, and a great option in the used car market.

Pros and Cons

Okay, let's sum up the pros and cons of the 2019 Hyundai Kona to give you a clearer picture! First, the pros:

• Stylish Design: The Kona has a modern, eye-catching design that stands out from the crowd. Its bold front fascia and distinctive profile make it visually appealing.
• Fuel Efficiency: It offers excellent fuel economy, especially with the base engine, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving.
• Tech-Savvy: It comes with a user-friendly infotainment system, with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) that enhances convenience.
• Available AWD: The availability of all-wheel drive is a big plus for Canadian winters, improving traction and stability.
• Fun to Drive: The Kona offers a nimble and enjoyable driving experience, especially with the turbocharged engine.
• Safety Features: It includes a range of standard and available safety features, providing peace of mind.

Now, let's look at the cons:

• Rear Passenger Space: The rear seats might feel a bit cramped for taller passengers on longer trips.
• Cargo Space: Although practical, the cargo space might be limited compared to some larger SUVs.
• Engine Performance (Base): While adequate, the base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers, especially when fully loaded or during highway merging.
• Ride Quality: The ride can sometimes feel a bit firm, particularly on rough roads.

These pros and cons will help you weigh the decision. Overall, the 2019 Hyundai Kona is a strong contender in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a great balance of style, features, and value. Its strengths make it an excellent choice for urban dwellers, commuters, and those seeking a stylish and efficient vehicle. If you're looking for a fun, practical, and well-equipped SUV, the 2019 Hyundai Kona is definitely worth considering. Now, consider your needs and then make an informed choice!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the 2019 Hyundai Kona proved to be a popular and well-regarded subcompact SUV in Canada. Its appealing design, efficient performance, and practical features made it a favorite among many drivers. The Kona delivered a comfortable and tech-savvy driving experience, thanks to its well-designed interior and user-friendly infotainment system. The availability of advanced safety features added to its appeal, providing drivers with peace of mind on the road. The various trim levels allowed buyers to choose a Kona that fit their budget and lifestyle. Overall, the 2019 Hyundai Kona stood out as a versatile and enjoyable vehicle, offering a great balance of style, practicality, and value. If you're looking for a reliable and stylish used SUV, the 2019 Hyundai Kona should certainly be on your radar. Happy car hunting, everyone! And remember to do your due diligence, check the vehicle's history, and take it for a test drive before making a final decision. Happy driving! I hope this review has been helpful to you! Take care and see you around!