if you think there's been an suv explosion during the last couple of years, you've been paying attention, and the class that's been expanding at a record pace is also the smallest. automakers are rushing to add a subcompact suv to their lineup, and one of the newest to join the fray is the hyundai kona — it's also one of the most interestingly styled in the class.
the kona slots below the tucson compact suv in the automaker's lineup and marks a new design direction for the brand. its overall look is more playful and rugged than hyundai's other suvs, and as a result, it stands out — far out.
front and center is the automaker's hallmark grille, but a new headlight setup adds a funky dimension. skinny led daytime running lights sit high on the corners, and the headlights sit lower in a pod formation flanking the grille. the kona also wears a generous amount of black cladding on all sides that gives it a rough, outdoorsy effect.
we pit the kona against key rivals in the subcompact suv class in an upcoming challenge. check back monday to see how it fared.
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