The Korean automaker looks to Hawaii for inspiration for their next compact SUV. Called the Kona, after the coastal region that attracts thrill seekers on the Big Island, is set to launch in mid-2017.
When it does arrive, the Kona will go up against a strong field of competitors from the very same automakers Hyundai has been tussling with over the years. Namely, the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, the Nissan Qashqai, and even newer Toyota C-HR.
There’s literally no solid news about the upcoming car other than its name and a rather vague image that teases the very slim headlights that set into the front fascia melds with the subtle bonnet creases and just the suggestion of a large gaping front grille.
The forward illumination will likely comprise of a multiple headlight array, with the daytime running lights (DRL) and turn signal elements being the subject of the teaser above.
This does suggest the Kona will wear quite a bold and sporty exterior design compared to the Tucson and Santa Fe - two other SUVs from Hyundai that were also named after (usually) American locations. At least this time, the name isn’t all too removed from the active lifestyle demographic the car is aimed at (or at least aspires to resonate with).
We’re not too sure about Tucson, Arizona or Santa Fe, New Mexico are in the same league of “acclaimed travel destinations” that Hyundai says they are, forming the basis for the names they chose.
Judging from the dimensions of the car spied while being tested, likely being Kona prototypes, they match almost exactly with the third-generation i30. As such, we expect a very similar spread of drivetrain options as well as cabin layout.
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