2023 Hyundai Kona

2023 Hyundai Kona Overview

The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV available with several powertrain options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque is available as an upgrade. Both engines can be paired with a six-speed automatic transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). The Kona Electric is powered by an electric motor with 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque.

Owners praise the Kona’s stylish design, spacious interior, and impressive fuel economy. However, some have reported issues with its engine, transmission, and other components.

Engine

2.0-Liter Four-Cylinder Engine

• Premature Engine Failure: Occurring within 3,000-20,000 miles. Symptoms include knocking sounds, decreased power, and check engine light illumination. Requires engine replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000-$10,000+
• Recalls: 1 NHTSA Recall #22V643000

1.6-Liter Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine

• Oil Consumption Issues: Occurs after 10,000-20,000 miles. Symptoms include excessive oil consumption, low oil pressure warnings, and engine overheating. Requires engine repair or replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500-$6,000+

Transmission

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems: Occurs intermittently or consistently. Symptoms include delayed or abrupt gear shifts, jerkiness, or slipping. Requires transmission repair or replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$4,000

Seven-Speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

• Clutch Problems: Occurs after 20,000-50,000 miles. Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, or difficulty engaging gears. Requires clutch replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500-$3,000
• Recalls: 1 NHTSA Recall #23V504000

Suspension

• Rear Suspension Noise: Occurs at low speeds or over uneven roads. Symptoms include clunking, rattling, or squeaking noises from the rear suspension. Requires suspension component replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,000

Electrical

• Electrical System Malfunctions: Occurs randomly. Symptoms can vary but may include power loss, check engine light illumination, battery drain, or malfunctioning electrical components. Requires electrical system diagnosis and repair.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$2,000

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation: Occurs after heavy rainfall or car washes. Symptoms include moisture accumulation inside the headlight housing. Requires headlight lens replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $400-$800

Interior

• Climate Control Malfunctions: Occurs intermittently or consistently. Symptoms include poor heating or cooling performance, fan noise, or malfunctioning controls. Requires HVAC system diagnosis and repair.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $500-$1,500
• Instrument Cluster Issues: Occurs randomly. Symptoms can vary but may include flickering display, error messages, or malfunctioning gauges. Requires instrument cluster replacement.
• Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000-$2,000

Summary

While the 2023 Hyundai Kona has some positive attributes, it has also been plagued by a number of issues. Engine and transmission problems are particularly concerning, with some owners experiencing premature engine failure and transmission issues. Electrical malfunctions, suspension noise, and interior problems are also common. The severity and cost of the issues vary widely, but they can be costly to repair.