2025 Hyundai Kona Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Hyundai Kona emerges as a thoroughly modernized competitor in the increasingly crowded subcompact crossover segment. This new version shows Hyundai’s dedication to not just keeping up but really evolving their cars while still holding onto what makes them popular. The Kona has gotten bigger and a bit fancier, which means it can appeal to more buyers without losing that unique charm it’s known for.

The Kona’s got some stiff rivals out there. For instance, the Chevrolet Trax—hey, it even won a spot on the 10Best list—offers great value and a fresh design. Then there’s the Mazda CX-30, which feels almost premium with its top-notch driving experience. The Kia Soul stands out with its funky looks and practicality. Don’t forget about the Honda HR-V, known for its reliability and good resale value. The Volkswagen Taos brings that refined European vibe, while Toyota’s Corolla Cross is banking on its famous dependability. Oh, and the Kia Niro, built on the same platform as the Kona, sets itself apart with its hybrid and plug-in hybrid options.

What’s interesting about the Kona is its unique spot in this crowded marketplace. Sure, some competitors might shine in certain areas, but the Kona is designed to be a balanced choice that doesn’t skimp on either style or substance. Its modern design, loaded features, and a variety of engine choices make it a standout for anyone looking for a subcompact SUV that really stands out.

What truly sets the 2025 Kona apart is its range of personalities across different trim levels. From the value-oriented SE to the sporty N Line and premium Limited, each version of the Kona offers a distinct character while maintaining the model’s core strengths. This versatility allows it to appeal to a wide range of buyers, from first-time car purchasers to those downsizing from larger vehicles.

This year also brings some exciting updates. There’s a new trim called the N Line S, which packs a more powerful engine but skips on some of the fancier features you’d find in the regular N Line. Plus, the SEL with the Convenience package has been promoted to its own trim level, making it a lot easier for folks who want a mid-range option with some extra goodies.

Size-wise, the Kona has grown! It’s now 5.7 inches longer, hitting 171.5 inches overall, and the wheelbase has stretched by 2.3 inches to 104.7 inches. The width has also seen a bump, increasing by an inch to 71.9 inches. All this extra space means better room inside and more cargo capacity, which helps address one of the biggest complaints about the old model. So yeah, the 2025 Kona is shaping up to be quite the contender!

The 2025 Hyundai Kona’s powertrain options have two choices here, each designed to fit different driving styles and budgets. First up, there’s the standard engine that comes with the SE and SEL trims. It’s a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It cranks out 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm. Sure, those numbers might not blow your socks off, but honestly, they get the job done for city driving and daily commutes.

If you’re eyeing the N Line S, N Line, or Limited trims, you’re in for a treat. These come with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. This baby delivers a much zippier 190 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and a solid 195 lb-ft of torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm. The wider torque range really makes a difference, giving you that extra boost for confident acceleration and responsiveness when you need it.

About something important—the transmission. For 2025, there’s a notable shift here. The base engine is paired with Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). This setup runs smoothly and is great for fuel efficiency. On the other hand, the turbocharged engine is now linked to a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission, moving away from the earlier seven-speed dual-clutch setup. This change focuses more on a seamless driving experience rather than just raw performance.

When you test these engines in real-world conditions, the differences stand out. The turbocharged version with all-wheel drive can zip from 0 to 60 mph in around 7.5 seconds. Meanwhile, the base engine is a bit slower, clocking in at about 9.2 seconds. Sure, that’s a slight dip in performance compared to the last model (which was at 7.3 seconds), but honestly, the smoother drive and refinement is something a lot of drivers will appreciate.

Both engines do their thing pretty well if you keep up with maintenance. Now, the turbocharged engine, while it packs a punch, does have a bit of turbo lag when you first hit the gas. But once that turbo kicks in, the power comes on strong and steady. And that new 8-speed automatic? It shifts quickly and smoothly, keeping the engine in the sweet spot for power.

If you’re thinking about the all-wheel-drive option, here’s something to know: it’s available for all trim levels for an extra $1,500. This system is super useful for better handling in bad weather, though it might slightly affect fuel economy. Plus, it has a lock feature that splits torque evenly between the front and rear wheels at lower speeds, which is great for traction.

All the engines run on regular unleaded gasoline, and the fuel tank sizes differ a bit. The turbocharged engine has a 13.2-gallon tank, while the base engine has a 12.4-gallon tank. Thankfully, neither engine needs premium fuel, which helps keep those running costs in check.

Depending on whether you choose front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive, the braking setup changes a bit. For instance, if you go for the all-wheel-drive version, you get slightly bigger front rotors, which helps with stopping better.

So, just to break it down: front-wheel-drive models come with 11-inch ventilated front disc brakes, while the all-wheel-drive versions get the larger 12-inch ventilated front discs. And all of them have 11.2-inch solid disc brakes in the back. This whole arrangement is designed to keep braking performance steady, especially when you’re hitting the brakes hard repeatedly.

The system also has a bunch of electronic aids to help out, like anti-lock brakes (ABS) that work across all four wheels, plus electronic brake-force distribution. And let’s not forget about the driver-selectable downhill brake control and hill start assist control—these really boost safety and give you more control when you’re driving on different terrains.

Now, when we put the Kona through its paces, the all-wheel-drive model stops from 60 mph in about 118 feet. That’s pretty much average for this class of vehicles. Sure, it might not be the best in class, but the way it feels when you’re braking is reassuring. Drivers will appreciate the feedback they get from the brake pedal—it’s quite nice.

Speaking of the brake pedal, it gives you solid feedback and effectively communicates how the car is stopping. The initial bite is smooth, which makes it simple to adjust the brake force for day-to-day driving. And when you hit the brakes hard, the system stays stable and trustworthy, with hardly any fading even during tough braking sessions.

The electronic parking brake, which comes standard across all trim levels, is conveniently located on the lower left side of the dashboard. This placement frees up valuable center console space while remaining easily accessible to the driver. The system includes an auto-hold function, which can maintain brake pressure when stopped, reducing driver fatigue in stop-and-go traffic.

The 2025 Kona has stepped up its game when it comes to steering and suspension, making for a more refined driving experience. So, the steering system? It’s got this column-mounted motor-driven power steering thing going on, with a ratio of 13.6:1, which means you’ll be turning that wheel about 2.5 times from lock to lock. Plus, with a turning diameter of just 34.8 feet, the Kona is pretty nimble, perfect for those tight city streets.

About the suspension—it changes quite a bit between the front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions. All of them come with a MacPherson strut front suspension and coil springs, plus a hollow stabilizer bar. But here’s where it gets interesting: the rear suspension is where the real difference lies. The all-wheel-drive models are equipped with a fancy multi-link suspension that includes a stabilizer bar, while the front-wheel-drive ones make do with a simpler torsion beam rear axle.

This difference in design affects how the car rides and handles. The all-wheel-drive versions, thanks to that more advanced multi-link rear suspension, hold the road better and offer a smoother ride on different surfaces. The front-wheel-drive models? They’re still good, but they don’t quite have the same finesse when it comes to handling.

When it comes to steering effort, it’s generally light, which is nice for everyday driving. But put the Kona in Sport mode, and you’ll notice it firms up a bit. The steering gives you a decent feel for the center and keeps things stable when you’re cruising on the highway. Some folks might want a bit more feedback, but overall, it matches the Kona’s role as a daily driver pretty well.

The long wheelbase and wide track contribute to the Kona’s planted stance, resulting in impressive stability during highway cruising and confidence-inspiring handling through corners. The suspension tuning strikes a nice balance between comfort and control, effectively managing body roll while still maintaining good ride quality over rough surfaces.

You’ve got to appreciate the Kona’s chassis too; it’s got solid structural rigidity. This helps the suspension do its job even better. The impact harshness? Well controlled. The vehicle stays composed, no matter what kind of road you’re on. This is especially true for the all-wheel-drive models with their more advanced rear suspension.

The 2025 Kona brings a solid wheel and tire package that changes depending on which trim you choose. So, if you’re looking at the base SE model, you’ll find it comes with 17-inch alloy wheels. Then, if you go for the SEL trims, you get a bit of an upgrade to 18-inch alloys. Now, if you’re into something sportier, the N Line models and the top-of-the-line Limited trim sport larger 19-inch alloy wheels that are 7.5 inches wide.

Speaking of the N Line, it has a cool spoke design that’s got this dark gray paint and some nice machined accents. And, these wheels are wrapped in Kumho Majesty 9 Solus TA91 tires, which measure 235/45R-19. Honestly, this tire choice hits a nice sweet spot between performance, comfort, and being able to handle different weather conditions.

You’ll notice that with the 235mm width, there’s a solid connection to the road, which really helps with stability and handling. The 45-series sidewall profile? It’s a decent balance between comfort while riding and being responsive when you handle those corners, even if some folks might feel it’s a tad firm on bumpy roads.

Road noise from the tire and wheel combination is notably well-controlled, particularly impressive given the relatively large wheel size. This is partly due to Hyundai’s attention to overall noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) control in the new generation Kona.

The tire choice also contributes to the vehicle’s all-weather capability. The M+S (Mud and Snow) rating ensures adequate performance in varying weather conditions, while the Extra Load designation provides additional load-carrying capacity, important for an SUV that might be called upon to carry passengers and cargo.

Tire pressure monitoring comes standard across all trim levels, helping maintain optimal tire performance and fuel efficiency. The system provides real-time monitoring through the driver information display, ensuring drivers can keep their tires properly inflated for optimal performance and safety.

The interior is like a whole new chapter in design and quality – it’s impressive! One thing that grabs your attention is those dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens. They pretty much take over the dashboard, giving it this sleek, tech-savvy vibe while still being super functional.

Now, if you sit in the front row, you’ll notice how it’s all about the driver. There’s this floating horizontal C-pad design that shows off the Kona’s high-tech persona. Even though it’s a compact car on the outside, the layout gives off a sense of spaciousness, which is kinda neat. They’ve moved around some of the controls near the steering wheel to open up the center console, making it feel more roomy.

As for the materials, they do change depending on the trim level, but there’s a nice, consistent theme running throughout. The SE and SEL trims come with cloth seating, which is comfortable enough, but if you go for the N Line models, you’re in for something special. They’ve got a cool mix of leather and Alcantara upholstery that really stands out. Plus, the N Line has these eye-catching red accents on the dashboard and seats, not to mention the unique vertical stripes on the seatbacks with logos stitched in. 

The Limited trim steps it up a notch with premium leatherette upholstery, which definitely adds a touch of luxury. Sure, you might spot some hard plastics here and there, especially in the upper dash and door panels, but they’ve done a good job making them look nice and placing them where they won’t be touched often. The areas you do touch? Soft-touch materials all the way, giving that quality feel.

When it comes to storage, they’ve really thought it through. There’s this clever rotational cup holder in the center console that lets you use the space however you want. You’ll find a handy shelf on the passenger side of the dashboard, which is just right for stashing small stuff like your phone or shades.

The ambient lighting system, available on higher trim levels, corresponds to drive modes and can be customized to suit the driver’s preferences. This feature adds an upscale touch to the interior, particularly noticeable during night driving.

The 2025 Kona definitely stands out with its futuristic look and unique lighting features. The front of the car is eye-catching, showcasing a full-width lighting design that includes LED daytime running lamps, which gives it a distinctive vibe. There’s a continuous light bar that runs across the front, but interestingly, the center part is just for show; the main headlights are actually housed lower down.

Now, if you take a look at the overall proportions, they’ve become a bit more substantial. This new generation measures 171.5 inches long, which is a 5.7-inch bump from before. Plus, it’s got a wheelbase that stretches 104.7 inches (that’s 2.3 inches longer) and a width of 71.9 inches (an inch wider). All these changes help the Kona look more planted and mature, while still keeping its signature style intact.

When it comes to body cladding, it varies depending on the trim level. The SE and SEL trims use black plastic cladding, while the Limited gets a fancier black treatment. The N Line models stand out with body-colored accents around the wheel arches. They also come with some cool styling touches like more aggressive front and rear fascias, a bold rear spoiler, and exposed dual exhaust tips that have a satin chrome finish.

The side profile is dynamic too, featuring a character line that creates a V-shape, flowing down toward the front axle and then stretching back. There’s a chrome strip that runs from the A-pillar to the C-pillar, giving it a floating roof effect, especially on models with a contrasting roof.

As for color choices, you’ve got plenty to pick from—eight different options, including some two-tone combos with black roofs. The Ultimate Red Metallic and Mirage Green shades really highlight the Kona’s intricate surfacing and design details.

On the rear, it keeps that striking lighting theme going with full-width LED taillights and separate lighting housings. And you’ve got to check out the N Line’s rear spoiler; it’s got an aggressive look that gives the vehicle a bit of a rally-inspired flair.

The 2025 Kona steps up its game when it comes to comfort and convenience features, and you can see this across all the trim levels. For starters, the front seats? They’ve been redesigned to be about 30% slimmer than what you’d find in the last generation. This redesign actually opens up more legroom for passengers in the back, while still keeping things comfy up front.

Seating comfort does change a bit depending on which trim you choose. If you go for the SE or SEL trims, you’ll get cloth upholstery. But if you’re feeling a bit fancy and opt for the N Line models, you’ll enjoy a stylish mix of leather and Alcantara, complete with some eye-catching red accents. And the Limited trim? It’s got full leatherette seating surfaces for that extra touch of luxury. Starting from the SEL Convenience trim, the driver’s seat gets an 8-way power adjustment, including height and lumbar support. Nice!

When it comes to climate control, Hyundai has really thought this through. Dual-zone automatic climate control comes standard on the SEL trim and higher, which is super convenient. The controls are laid out in a way that makes sense—physical buttons and knobs are easy to use, and they definitely beat those confusing minimalist designs. If you’re in the SEL Convenience trim or above, heated front seats are on the menu. And for those hot days, the Limited trim even has ventilated front seats. Talk about comfort!

The new column-mounted shift-by-wire gear selector, standard with the 8-speed automatic transmission, frees up valuable console space while maintaining intuitive operation. The center console features a clever rotational cup holder design that can be hidden away when not needed, maximizing storage flexibility.

And storage? There’s plenty of that throughout the cabin. In the front area, you’ll find a wireless charging pad (if you go with SEL Convenience or higher), multiple USB ports, and even a 12V power outlet. The dashboard on the passenger side has this handy shelf that’s just right for smartphones or little things, while the door panels come with practical compartments and holders for bottles.

If you choose the N Line or Limited trims, you can enjoy a power sunroof that opens up the cabin. Plus, LED interior lighting is standard from the SEL Convenience trim on up, and there’s ambient lighting available on the N Line and Limited trims that can even change based on your driving mode. How cool is that?

The dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays form the centerpiece of the technology package, providing a seamless blend of driver information and entertainment functions.

About that infotainment system—it’s a big step up! You get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in every trim, which is super convenient. The interface? It’s quick and intuitive, with sharp graphics and hardly any delay. Oh, and the capacitive touchscreen even has a split-screen option. So, you can check out multiple info sources all at once—neat, right?

And then there are the connected car features. You can get over-the-air updates, meaning your software can improve without needing to make a trip to the dealer. Plus, there’s the Digital Key 2 Touch system. This nifty feature uses near-field communication so you can use your smartphone or smartwatch as a car key—how cool is that? And you can share access with up to three people securely.

If you’re into music, the available Bose premium audio system, standard on the N Line and Limited trims, is just amazing. It has eight speakers strategically placed, plus a subwoofer for that rich sound. Check this out: it even includes an expanded “Sounds of Nature” system with ten different soundscapes—perfect for creating a calm atmosphere in the cabin.

Connectivity? Oh, it’s got you covered. There are plenty of USB-C ports (with data support) in both the front and back seating areas. And if you’re looking for wireless charging, the pad on the SEL Convenience trim and above is rubberized and can juice up your phone—even if it’s in a thick case with cards inside.

Now, for those tricky parking situations, Remote Smart Parking Assist is a lifesaver on higher trims. You can actually move the vehicle forward or backward using the smart key, all while standing outside the car. This is super handy in tight spaces where you might struggle to open your door. It’s all about making things easier, and the Kona delivers!

The 2025 Hyundai Kona stands out when it comes to safety. It’s scored the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating, which is the best of the best in terms of safety designations. You know, it shows just how well it can protect you in both avoiding crashes and in the event that they do happen.

So, what’s standard across all trim levels? A whole range of advanced driver assistance systems. For instance, there’s the forward collision avoidance assist. It’s pretty cool—equipped with smart sensors, it detects potential accidents with cars, pedestrians, or cyclists. If it senses something dangerous, it can even slam on the brakes automatically.

Then we’ve got lane-keeping assist and lane-following assist. They work together to help you stay centered in your lane. Basically, the system nudges the steering wheel a bit when you drift off course. This is especially handy on those long drives where you might get a bit tired. And speaking of fatigue, the driver attention warning can keep an eye on your driving habits and suggest a break if it think you need one.

Blind spot monitoring along with rear cross-traffic alert comes standard too, which is quite impressive since you usually find this kind of tech in higher-end models. This system gives you visual and audible alerts when there are vehicles in your blind spots or if something’s coming at you from the side as you’re backing up.

If you opt for the Limited trim, you’ll get even more advanced safety features. Highway Driving Assist is a big one—it combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering, making highway driving a lot safer. Plus, there’s this surround-view monitor that gives you a full 360-degree look around the vehicle, which makes parking and low-speed maneuvers so much easier.

Safe exit warning, another innovative safety feature, alerts passengers if it’s unsafe to exit the vehicle due to approaching traffic. This system is particularly valuable in urban environments where cyclists and other vehicles might approach from behind.

The 2025 Kona steps up the game when it comes to driving – it’s all about balancing comfort with that fun, engaging feel. With its bigger size and longer wheelbase, it’s definitely more stable and feels more grounded than the older model. But don’t worry, it still handles well in city traffic, which is a plus.

Now, when it comes to the engines, things get interesting. You’ve got two options here. The standard 2.0-liter engine? It’s fine for everyday driving, but if you’re looking to zip past someone on the highway, you might need to think ahead a bit. On the flip side, the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine gives you a lot more pep. Sure, it does have some turbo lag when you first hit the gas, but once it kicks in, wow – the mid-range power helps when you’re merging or trying to overtake.

The new 8-speed automatic transmission paired with the turbocharged engine represents a significant improvement over the previous generation’s dual-clutch unit. Shifts are smoother and more refined in everyday driving, though they remain reasonably quick when more aggressive acceleration is needed. The paddle shifters, while present on N Line and Limited trims, don’t offer full manual control and are best used for engine braking or maintaining lower gears on hills.

There are different drive modes to choose from, like Normal, Sport, and Snow for all-wheel-drive models. Each mode tweaks how the car feels – adjusting things like throttle response and steering weight. Sport mode really amps up the throttle response and holds the gears longer. The steering feels a bit heavier, but not by much. And if you’re in tricky conditions, the all-wheel-drive lock is a nice feature, splitting torque evenly at lower speeds to give you extra confidence.

Road noise? Well managed, which is quite surprising for a car in this price range. Wind noise is kept to a minimum, even though it has a taller profile. Just a heads-up, though – if you go for the 19-inch wheels, you might hear a bit more road noise compared to the smaller ones.

As for handling, the Kona leans towards comfort but still keeps things under control. The all-wheel-drive versions, thanks to their multi-link rear suspension, handle bumps and rough patches way better than the front-wheel-drive ones with their torsion beam setup. You’ll definitely feel the difference when you hit those mid-corner bumps or uneven pavement. So, overall, it’s a nice mix of comfort and performance, which is what a lot of folks are looking for.

So, the 2025 Kona has grown a bit, and you can really feel it in the back seats. With the longer wheelbase and a wider body, rear passengers get a nice 38.2 inches of legroom. And, even if you opt for the sunroof, there’s still plenty of headroom to keep everyone comfy.

Now, when you check out the rear seats themselves, you’ll notice some thoughtful design choices. They recline in two stages, which isn’t something you see everywhere—definitely a perk for those longer trips. The cushions do a solid job of supporting your thighs, and the angle of the backrests, along with how much padding they have, strikes a good balance between feeling cozy and being supported.

As for the amenities back there? They’re comprehensive for this class. Every trim comes with dual USB-C ports for charging devices—because, let’s face it, who doesn’t need that these days? If you go for the SEL Convenience trim or higher, you get rear air vents, which are great for keeping the temperature just right for everyone.

The center armrest folds down to reveal two cup holders. Plus, the doors have bottle holders too—very practical! For families with little ones, the rear seats come equipped with ISOFIX anchors and top tether points for child seats in all three spots. So, yeah, it’s a solid choice if you’ve got kids.

Even with that sunroof, headroom is still generous—about 2-3 inches of clearance for someone who’s around 6 feet tall sitting up straight. The front seatbacks have been redesigned to be 30% slimmer, which helps with knee space without sacrificing comfort for the front passengers.

Interior materials in the rear compartment maintain decent quality, though there is more hard plastic than in the front. The N Line models feature the same Alcantara and leather combination as the front seats, adding a premium touch to the rear compartment.

The 2025 Kona steps up its game with cargo space—it’s way more impressive than before. So, behind those rear seats, you’ve got about 25.5 cubic feet to work with. That’s a solid jump, like, 6.3 cubic feet more than the last generation. And if you fold those seats down? Boom! You get a whopping 63.7 cubic feet. Not too shabby, right?

The cargo area features a practical design with a wide opening and relatively low lift-over height, making loading and unloading easier. The available smart power tailgate on higher trims adds convenience, automatically opening when the key fob is detected nearby for three seconds – particularly useful when approaching with arms full of shopping bags.

The cargo floor is also adjustable. You can lift it up to make a flat surface when the back seats are down. Or, if you need a bit more height for taller stuff, you can lower it. It’s all about making the most of that space, which is just clever.

There are some great storage options too. You’ll find grocery bag hooks on either side, tie-down anchors to keep things secure, and an LED light that makes it easier to see what you’re doing. Plus, there’s a removable cover to keep your valuables hidden. And hey, under the floor, you’ve got a full-size spare tire and a basic tool kit—something you don’t always see in this category.

The rear seats split 60/40 and fold down easily, almost flat. That means you can load up on bigger items, like TVs up to 75-80 inches, without a problem. That’s impressive for a vehicle in this class.

All in all, the cargo area is super functional. Whether you’re running errands or heading out for a weekend trip, it’s got you covered. Just keep in mind, that the maximum cargo limit is 60 kg (130 lbs) when you’re planning those bigger adventures or hauling heavier loads.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona brings a lot to the table when you look at its range of trims. Prices start at around $24,350 for the base SE model and go up to about $31,900 for the fully loaded Limited version. So, when you’re weighing its value, there are a bunch of reasons it stands out in the crowded subcompact SUV market.

First off, Hyundai’s warranty is pretty hard to beat. You get a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a whopping 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Plus, they throw in 3 years or 36,000 miles of free maintenance. That’s nice, right? It helps ease your mind and keeps your ownership costs predictable.

Now, let’s talk about the trims. There’s a smart layout that makes it easy to see where you get the most bang for your buck. Take the new N Line S trim—it’s a great option because it comes with a peppy turbocharged engine but skips some of the fancier features that not everyone might need. So, if you’re all about performance, you can get that better engine without shelling out for the full-on N Line trim.

The standard features? They’re impressive too! Even the entry-level SE trim doesn’t skimp on safety. You get things like forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, which are often extras in other vehicles. Plus, there are dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and LED lighting—just a few examples of what Hyundai includes as standard.

When you’re behind the wheel, especially in the turbocharged AWD version, the Kona feels much pricier than it is. The interior quality is better than you might expect, there’s more room, and the design is quite modern. All of this helps it hold its own in the market, even at the higher trim levels.

If you stack it up against some of its main competitors, the Kona still shines. Sure, the Chevrolet Trax has a lower starting price, and the Mazda CX-30 feels a bit more upscale, but the Kona finds a sweet balance between features, performance, and price. Plus, that solid warranty and free maintenance make it even more appealing.

At the end of the day, it really boils down to what you need. For anyone in the market for a well-rounded subcompact SUV that doesn’t skimp on safety, tech, or driving fun, the 2025 Kona is definitely worth considering—especially in the SEL Convenience or N Line S trims, which really hit that ideal mix of features and value.