√2023 Hyundai Kona model range outlined, due in Australia mid-year

The first new Hyundai Kona in six years is expected to offer hybrid power – and sporty N Line styling – on multiple models when it arrives in Australian showrooms mid-year.

The new 2023 Hyundai Kona small SUV range is poised to double-down on electrified power – with hybrid technology available on a range of models – when local showroom arrivals begin in the middle of this year.

As previously announced, the new Hyundai Kona is due to offer a choice of petrol, electric and, for the first time, hybrid power in Australia, as the new model grows in size to rival the new Toyota Corol l a Cross.

Hyundai dealers have been advised the first shipments of petrol-powered Konas are due in showrooms in June or July – pending any delays – ahead of the hybrid and electric models between September and November of this year.

MORE: 2023 Hyundai Kona detailed, on track for Australia with hybrid power

Dealers have been told of plans for a reshuffled model range comprised of five model grades, with a choice of front-wheel-drive petrol or hybrid, all-wheel-drive N Line petrol, or electric power.

Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but increases are expected across the range to account for the larger body, new interior, wider technology suite, and improved safety features.

The price premium that hybrid power will carry over petrol versions – and whether it will be able to match the $2500 impost of Toyota – is unclear.

Full specifications are due closer to launch, however the cheapest model grade in the range – simply named ‘Kona’ – is expected to offer a choice of front-wheel-drive petrol, hybrid or ‘Standard Range’ electric power.

Dealers have advised the current Active, Elite and Highlander model grades is expected to be replaced by a single ‘Kona Premium’ model – offering front-wheel-drive petrol, hybrid or ‘Extended Range’ electric power.

Both petrol and hybrid versions are slated to be available with a optional N Line package, which if the larger Tucson’s N Line pack is a guide, may blend sporty styling elements and larger wheels with more luxury features.

Buyers looking for more performance are expected to be able to step up to full-strength Kona N Line and N Line Premium variants, which blend the sporty styling with all-wheel-drive petrol power.

Engine specifications for the new Hyundai Kona in Australia are yet to be confirmed, however in South Korea there is a choice of a 110kW/180Nm 2.0-litre petrol four-cylinder, 146kW/265Nm 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder, and a 104kW/265Nm 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid.

These engines appear to be carried over from the outgoing range, and are matched with front-wheel drive in the 2.0-litre petrol and 1.6-litre hybrid, or all-wheel drive in the 1.6-litre turbo petrol.

Details of the Kona Electric have not been published, however there is once again slated to be the option of Standard Range and Extended Range versions.

In today’s model, the Standard Range combines a 100kW/395Nm motor with a 39.2kWh battery for a 305km claimed driving range, while the Extended Range claims 150kW/395Nm, a 64kWh battery, and a 484km claimed WLTP driving range.

Dealers have been advised the new Kona Electric Premium will be available with an optional Technology Package, that will add some of the luxury features – but not sporty N Line styling elements – available in top-of-the-range petrol versions.

As reported previously, the new Hyundai Kona is 150mm longer, 25mm wider and 60mm taller than the car it replaces, which is said to deliver more passenger and boot space.

A camouflaged example (above) has been spied testing on Australian roads by Drive reader Stacie, in sporty N Line trim with 19-inch wheels. It’s unclear if this uses front- or all-wheel-drive petrol, or hybrid power.

For more details on the 2023 Hyundai Kona, click the links below to read Drive’s earlier reporting.

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