Hyundai Motor Company unveiled an EV-derived, futuristic design for its new generation KONA subcompact SUV. The upscaled model will be available in four variants, including all-electric (EV), hybrid electric (HEV), internal combustion engine (ICE) and sporty N Line, with a universal architecture for all and unique styling for each.
With the all-new KONA, Hyundai Motor has brought its commitment to sustainable mobility and technology-led design thinking to expand its EV offerings – innovated and advanced by the award-winning IONIQ lineup – while also meeting the diverse mobility needs of its customers with a variety of powertrains.
“Upscaled with KONA’s unique character, the all-new KONA confidently expresses its bold and dynamic presence,” said SangYup Lee, Executive Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center. “KONA has evolved in every respect to embrace an even wider range of diversity, to become a true lifestyle supporter.”
Upscaled KONA conveys more dynamic road presence, accommodates more ‘living space’
The all-new Hyundai KONA has evolved into a larger yet still urban-centric SUV with bolder styling that conveys a more dynamic road presence and driver-centric interior. To provide maximized ‘living space’ for customers, the all-new model grew to 4,355 mm in length, which is 150 mm longer from the previous generation, based on the EV variant. It also gained 25 mm in width and 60 mm in wheelbase length compared to the outgoing model without losing any of its iconic design identity.
Unlike most vehicles that are made available with a variety of powertrains, the KONA started with the EV variant design, which was then adapted the design for the ICE, HEV and N Line models. This unconventional approach allowed Hyundai to bring tech-centric design thinking to all KONA variants. Despite the shared architecture, EV, ICE/HEV and sporty N Line model has distinctive futuristic styling.
The all-new Hyundai KONA’s clean, distinctive nose characterizes the front section’s pure volume, which contributes to the model’s smooth aerodynamic performance. The pure volume is highlighted by the stretched Seamless Horizon Lamp, which is pixelated on the EV variant, marking the first Hyundai model with a Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamp that adds to the EV’s distinctive character. KONA’s use of Parametric Pixels also propagates a distinctive design element from Hyundai’s popular EV lineup.
Despite its futuristic appearance, the all-new KONA never lets one forget that it’s an SUV. Its dynamic styling is accentuated with boldly sculpted wheel arch cladding that incorporates headlamps and taillamps, reinforcing KONA’s robust underpinning.
The all-new KONA is replete with parametric surfaces. The sharp diagonal crease of the sides connects the satin chrome molding from the belt line to the spoiler, creating a contour that wraps around the entire vehicle. The rear features another Seamless Horizon Lamp as well as a high-mounted stop lamp (HMSL) that is seamlessly integrated within the satin chrome molding of the spoiler.
There are several styling variations between the powertrain variants. The EV gets pixel graphic details on the intake grille and rear bumper, a pixel-inspired 19-inch alloy wheel design, black embracing line and optional black side mirrors and roof. The ICE and HEV share a bold and rugged bumper and skid plate design, and black wheel arch cladding. The N Line boasts optional black side mirrors and roof, wing-type spoiler, more aggressive front and rear designs with wing-shaped bumper to emphasize a lower stance, distinctive 19-inch alloy wheels, twin muffler and silver side skirt.
Source: NetCarShow.com