We’re still in the early stages of our long-term test of the 2019 Hyundai Kona, and so far it hasn’t done much to stand out. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, though. Seemingly everywhere you look, there’s evidence of Hyundai’s attention to detail, resulting in a subcompact crossover filled with satisfying touches. None of this is groundbreaking stuff, but sometimes it’s worth appreciating the small things.
The Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Automatic Transmission
In our previous Hyundai long-termer, a 2017 Tucson, we had constant problems with this same transmission. Early returns in our Kona, though, have shown notable improvements. Left to its own devices, the transmission calmly, smoothly shifts into the appropriate gear. That alone is a big improvement. Popping the shifter to the left activates manual shifting mode, and moving up and down through the gears is accompanied by a satisfying mechanical feel with each shift. It’s a fun and approachable way to learn the basics of how manuals work without having to worry about hitting the shift gates or that weird third pedal. And if you’d like to rev the engine higher without worrying about shifting gears yourself, there’s also a Sport mode.
Wireless Phone Charging
Qi wireless charging is an increasingly common feature on new cars. Personally, I haven’t even used it—I have an iPhone 7 Plus, which doesn’t have wireless charging—but I find it satisfying nonetheless. Why? Because my phone actually fits in the space. There are technically bigger phones, but not by much, and I have a substantial case. Rarely does my phone fit in phone-specific spaces, yet it slides neatly into the Kona’s phone spot. It’s pretty satisfying to know your big, ugly phone case actually fits—and to know that when you inevitably upgrade, you’ll have easy access to wireless charging and don’t need to break out a tape measure before buying your next phone.
Lime Everywhere—In a Good Way
This one is subjective, but the lime accents throughout (if you opt for the Lime Twist exterior color) seem to be just right. When I first heard “lime paint with lime accents inside,” I was sure it would get old quick. But Hyundai’s application of green throughout is just subtle enough to remain tasteful. Any more, and I’d probably hate it by now. Any less, and I might not even know it was there. It’s a satisfying balance.
Heated Front Seats
Hardly a new or novel technology, the Kona’s heated front seats are still pretty nice. In Southern California, heated seats are rarely necessary, yet it’s one of the first things I look for in any car I drive, regardless of the outside temperature. The Kona’s front seats heat up quickly, but they don’t get too hot, and the three settings ensure there should be a level that both driver and passenger find satisfying.
Bluetooth Connectivity and Hands-Free Calling
Bluetooth connectivity exists on nearly every new car, but not all systems are created equal. In the Kona, phones connect quickly and (for your primary device) automatically, which is something you may not notice unless your car doesn’t do that. And once you’re connected, hands-free calling offers clear, crisp audio on both ends. Technology like this does no one any good if users aren’t satisfied with the quality and therefore don’t use it. Hyundai has no such issues here.
The Windowsill
This one might be a bit of a reach—or, rather, it isn’t. Nothing frustrates me more about a car than finding out I can’t rest my elbow on the edge of the window. Our long-term Nissan Kicks, for example? Not really an option; the ledge below the window drops off precipitously. The Kona offers enough of a plateau before falling off that it can act as an armrest, which I find quite satisfying.
Read more about our long-term 2019 Hyundai Kona 1.6T AWD:
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