Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL Sport. This spunky SUV has been making waves, and we're here to give you the lowdown on everything it offers. From its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and tech, we'll cover it all. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, this review will provide you with a detailed look at what makes the Kona SEL Sport stand out in the crowded subcompact SUV market.

    Exterior Design and Styling

    Let's kick things off with the exterior. The Hyundai Kona SEL Sport boasts a modern and eye-catching design. Its compact dimensions make it perfect for navigating city streets, while its bold lines and distinctive front grille give it a confident stance. The SEL Sport trim adds sporty touches like unique alloy wheels and body-colored accents, enhancing its overall appeal. The Kona's design isn't just about looks; it's also functional. The elevated ride height provides good visibility, and the aerodynamic shape contributes to its fuel efficiency. Available in a range of vibrant colors, the Kona SEL Sport allows you to express your personality and make a statement on the road. The sharp headlights and LED daytime running lights not only look great but also improve visibility during nighttime driving. The rear spoiler adds a touch of sportiness, while the sculpted taillights complete the modern look. Overall, the Kona SEL Sport's exterior is a well-executed blend of style and practicality, making it a standout in its class. The design is youthful and energetic, appealing to a wide range of buyers who want a vehicle that looks as good as it performs.

    Interior Comfort and Features

    Stepping inside the 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL Sport, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable cabin. The interior is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV, offering ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives enjoyable. The SEL Sport trim includes premium cloth upholstery and leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury to the interior. The dashboard layout is clean and intuitive, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is user-friendly, featuring a touchscreen display that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Kona SEL Sport also comes equipped with a range of convenience features, such as automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. These features enhance the overall driving experience and make the Kona a pleasure to own. The interior storage is also well thought out, with plenty of cubbies and compartments to keep your belongings organized. The cargo area is surprisingly spacious, offering enough room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With the rear seats folded down, the cargo capacity expands significantly, making the Kona a versatile choice for those who need to haul larger items. The interior of the Kona SEL Sport is a testament to Hyundai's commitment to quality and comfort, providing a welcoming and functional space for drivers and passengers alike.

    Performance and Handling

    Under the hood, the Hyundai Kona SEL Sport is powered by a capable 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. This engine delivers a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, making it suitable for both city and highway driving. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting automatic transmission, providing seamless acceleration and responsive performance. The Kona SEL Sport's handling is nimble and precise, making it fun to drive on twisty roads. The steering is well-weighted, providing good feedback and control. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and road imperfections with ease. The Kona SEL Sport is also available with all-wheel drive, providing added traction and stability in inclement weather. This makes it a great choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The Kona's compact size and responsive handling make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, making it a great city car. The engine provides enough power for confident acceleration and passing, while the fuel efficiency helps keep running costs down. Overall, the Kona SEL Sport offers a well-rounded driving experience, blending performance, handling, and fuel efficiency in a compact and stylish package. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Kona SEL Sport is up to the task.

    Technology and Safety Features

    The 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL Sport is packed with advanced technology and safety features. The infotainment system features a user-friendly touchscreen display, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Kona SEL Sport also comes equipped with a range of safety features, including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road. The Kona also features a rearview camera, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The SEL Sport trim includes additional safety features, such as rear cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist. These features provide added peace of mind and help to prevent accidents. The Kona's safety features have earned it top ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This makes it a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. The Kona SEL Sport also comes with Hyundai's SmartSense suite of safety technologies, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and pedestrian detection. These advanced features enhance the overall driving experience and help to keep you safe and secure on the road. Overall, the Kona SEL Sport is a technologically advanced and safety-conscious vehicle, providing a comprehensive suite of features to protect you and your passengers.

    Fuel Efficiency and Pricing

    One of the standout features of the Hyundai Kona SEL Sport is its excellent fuel efficiency. The Kona achieves impressive mileage, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and long road trips. The actual mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. The Kona's fuel efficiency is a major selling point for many buyers, helping to save money on gas and reduce their carbon footprint. In terms of pricing, the Kona SEL Sport is competitively priced within the subcompact SUV segment. It offers a great value for money, with a long list of standard features and a stylish design. The Kona's affordable price makes it accessible to a wide range of buyers, from first-time car owners to those looking for a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle. The Kona also comes with Hyundai's industry-leading warranty, providing added peace of mind and protection against unexpected repairs. The warranty covers the powertrain for an extended period, giving you confidence in the reliability of your vehicle. Overall, the Kona SEL Sport offers a compelling combination of fuel efficiency, affordability, and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.

    Pros and Cons

    To give you a balanced perspective, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL Sport:

    Pros:

    • Stylish and modern design
    • Comfortable and spacious interior
    • Nimble handling and responsive performance
    • Excellent fuel efficiency
    • Advanced technology and safety features
    • Affordable price

    Cons:

    • Limited cargo space compared to larger SUVs
    • Engine can feel underpowered at times
    • Some interior materials could be of higher quality

    Final Verdict

    In conclusion, the 2022 Hyundai Kona SEL Sport is a well-rounded and stylish subcompact SUV that offers a lot for its price. It boasts a modern design, comfortable interior, nimble handling, and excellent fuel efficiency. While it may not be the most powerful or spacious vehicle in its class, it excels in many other areas, making it a great choice for city dwellers and those looking for a practical and affordable SUV. If you're in the market for a subcompact SUV, the Kona SEL Sport is definitely worth considering. It's a fun, efficient, and stylish vehicle that's sure to impress. So, go ahead and take it for a test drive – you might just fall in love!