Hyundai Kona returns to PH with all-hybrid lineup
All has been revealed.
After an intriguing social-media marketing campaign with its mystery yellow car, Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) officially launched the all-new Kona on Friday at the Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater in Taguig City, with the help of heartthrob actor and Hyundai Brand Ambassador Piolo Pascual.
It is the latest version of the subcompact crossover that had been sold locally from 2018 until HMPH officially started operations last June 2022. The launch is part of the South Korean carmaker’s grand third-anniversary celebration at this year’s Hyundai Mobility Experience, which included a showcase of HMPH’s extensive model range.
“The Kona plays a vital role in our lineup, given that it’s another hybrid that we’re introducing in the Philippines,” said HMPH general manager for marketing Mark Parulan in an exclusive interview with Inquirer Mobility.
The Kona HEV, which is available in either GLS or Premium variant, joins the brand’s current hybrid-electric-vehicle (HEV) lineup that includes the Tucson and Santa Fe crossovers, along with the recently launched Elantra.
Chunky exterior
Much like the previous-generation Kona, this new version sports the model’s trademark Neoteric Yellow paint scheme (a hue close to lime green), as well as Meta Blue Pearl, Atlas White, Cyber Gray and Abyss Black Pearl.
Up front, the all-new Kona incorporates design features from the Stargazer and Staria, particularly the LED light strip that runs across the entire width of the hoodline. The LED headlights and turn signals are incorporated into the attractively designed, black protective cladding that is used all throughout the car.
Down the side, familiar Kona styling cues include the high beltline that runs through the door handles, as well as the upward-sweeping rear-quarter glass. The GLS gets 17-inch alloy wheels, while the Premium sports two-tone, 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Kona’s back end is just as dramatic as the front, especially its full-width LED tail strip. The actual brake lights and turn signals are again incorporated into the black cladding on the side of the electric tailgate.
Clean interior
Much like other Hyundai models, this latest Kona sports a crisp and clean cabin design, particularly the integrated 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Both variants get leatherette upholstery, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a wireless charger and six airbags, but only the top-spec Premium model includes a sunroof, a 64-color mood lamp, and Hyundai SmartSense that includes Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist.
Other neat features are the open center console with rotating cupholders and 60:40 split-folding rear seats that offer up to 1,241 liters of cargo space with the seats down.
Hybrid only
The reborn Kona will only be available in the Philippines as a hybrid.
Under the hood is a 1.6-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine mated to an electric motor, which is shared with the Elantra HEV. Combined output is 141 horsepower and 144 Newton-meters of torque, which are coursed through a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.
“The return of the Kona in the Philippine roster further fortifies the presence of Hyundai in the country,” HMPH said in a press statement.
“While it retains its reputable character in supporting the active lifestyle of consumers, the all-new model comes with new features and conveniences, promising an exciting experience for those who are looking for more meaningful drivers as they pursue their daily grind,” the company added.
The all-new 2025 Hyundai Kona HEV costs P1,528,000 for the GLS and P1,688,000 for the Premium.
