Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona a BETTER small SUV than the Kia Seltos?

The Kona has been a small SUV standout for a few years, but now Hyundai has more competition. Under the hood of this Ultimate trim Kona is a 1.6L turbocharged inline-4 that is producing 175HP & mated to 7-speed DCT transmission. I's exterior has a very unique front fascia, optional wheels, and roof rails. On the inside of the Kona you will find an 8in touchscreen, leather interior and a spacious cabin. Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona a BETTER small SUV than the Kia Seltos?
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[@travisp11]

I love your reviews and you sold me on a 2020 Kona SEL Plus AWD but the thing is, everyone is reviewing the Ultimate/Limited. It would be nice to see more budget friendly models get reviewed across the board on car channels on KZbin. It was tough for me to find a good review of the 2.0L SEL trim with AWD on KZbin before I decided to take a test drive. I really wanted to go with the Turbo engine but the combination of that + the dual clutch transmission scared me away as I heard it's not a happy transmission in stop and go traffic. Just would like your take on the 2.0 with AWD. I love mine, and I get it, the Ultimate and Limited really show the coolest, best performing package available but for a lot of us, cost, reliability, insurance prices, all of these things push us into lower trim models or less powerful drivetrains.

[@Mischa808]

I got the 2018 as a brand new lease. More than once I have had near accidental mishaps in stop and go traffic or while making close maneuvers at low speed. I do have the limited turbo, which on highways, in turbo, its smooth and powerful for the vehicle size. I don't fully understand the dual clutch...and had no idea about it until I found tag about it under the seat months later. I await 2021 updates, as my lease is over then. My 2002, 6 cyl Sonata GLS is still running strong at 135k miles just in case 😉.

[@travisp11]

Chelle Shakir good info! Especially for people that don’t realize how the dual clutch operates.

[@Mischa808]

@@travisp11 its on the gas or on the brake, no in between or it can get away from you. Actually the tag said you can damage the clutch by not using brake pedal while sitting at lights, on inclines and such. Thank you for bringing up the points it so validated my experiences.

[@travisp11]

Chelle Shakir Thanks for the info on the dual clutch!

[@tatt4music]

Stay away from turbo on any vehicle.

[@arnoldbuckner6351]

Take notice how enthusiastic he expresses NO “CVT” That transmission reminds me of the 1955 Buick “DYNAFLOW”

[@RaitisRides]

Yes sir!

[@Rheisler1475]

The DCT is very quick at shifting and from what I read one of the most reliable DCTs out there

[@alaorilla9716]

@@Rheisler1475 is the hyundai DCT same as kias since they're basically the same company?

[@Rheisler1475]

@@alaorilla9716 yes, it should be. do your research on how to drive a DCT to save you money on repairs. it is NOT ment to be driven like a regular automatic, more like a manual. I am enjoying it so far but I will never get another car with one I will tell you that right now.

[@alaorilla9716]

​@@Rheisler1475 i have DCT in my mercedes .. i'm used to it and wouldn't want to trade off the quick power i get from it.. i'm just afraid of the quality of kia transmission.. i get that a lot of people don't know how to drive DCT but i'm wondering if people who do still have issues with overheating and whatnot. what adjustments have you had to make between driving a regular automatic and dct? are you driving a kia/hyundai?

[@amandaeliyah2878]

You have no clue how much your videos have helped me purchase my new Hyundai Kona plus. I love it ! Thank you so much for quality, entertaining and yet humorous reviews !!!

[@mrpicpalac]

Raitis is one of the best car presenter, hands down!

[@RaitisRides]

That is so really awesome of you to say! Thank you!

[@mr.2cents.846]

True. 8 also love the canadians Throttle House and Straight Pipes.

[@estpst]

That's the mail slot in the front LOL

[@RaitisRides]

I think you may be right! Lol

[@delcyvoisine1395]

Toyota's large pickup has the same 'mail slot'.

[@osgabriel20]

I am a fan of medium size and large SUVs but Joe you got me listenin I cannot wait to see your reviews

[@BlaiseMcAfee]

Another great review Joe, you help me appreciate vehicles more every day! Much love to Victor and the others who film for you, they do a great job keeping things steady and in frame while maintaining the overall view.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Blaise! That really means a lot!

[@BlaiseMcAfee]

@@RaitisRides No problem! I don't comment frequently, but I'm definitely around!

[@jcrobinson37]

I rented the Kona a few times and drove it up and down the highway to work. From Maryland to Philadelphia daily. AMAZING gas mileage. Great CUV. I actually got the mpg up to around 40 mpg.

[@andrewmarinkovich8657]

I like how the Kona looks. It definitely stands out compared to most of the small SUVs on the market that tend to look so much the same. Also, before I started watching Raiti's Rides I never noticed whether the front-end vents on a car were fake or functional. Now when I drive down the street I ZONK all the cars I see with fake vents! LOL

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Andrew for letting me share it all with you! I really appreciate your support and watching!

[@andrewmarinkovich8657]

@@RaitisRides I should add that I ZONK all the fake exhausts I see as well. :-)

[@johnkennethcosa311]

So much respect for team raiti's rides for always replying on almost every comments in every videos🙌

[@MayankLongiany]

I saw your 2021 Cadillac Escalade video today, and that's how I found your channel. I'm glad I found it. 😊 Keep up the good work! Love from India. Btw, I'm a student and a teacher, so I post my teaching videos.

[@dam4274]

Love the denim Venue behind you at 5:26.

[@itsdimitrix]

Own a Kona love it!!! Took it to the grand canyon today! Great on gas! But still sporty and fun to drive! Kona with added technology package. Practically drove it's self with lane assist and cruise control on.

[@Rheisler1475]

Dimitri Allen what trim do you have, I have been limited. drove from Florida to Maryland to visit family and attend a wedding, the drive was very smooth and comfortable

[@philliphinkle2812]

Looking at this size veh in 2021 when our lease is up. Kind of narrowed down to the Kona and Seltos. Thanks for what you do. I was leaning toward the Seltos, but now you’ve made it a tougher decision. Lol.

[@mattagui5718]

Great review my dude

[@willierolon3735]

Awesome review Team Raiti's Rides!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man!

[@ahmadalsami1707]

its a cool car i own it as my every day ride , good review thank you 🙏🏻

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome!

[@20canon]

Another great review RR .

[@esperantogod]

Thank you for your honest review You help me decide between Tucson and kona

[@kawiblue8604]

I love you’re videos and when Lori Responded to me it made my day.

[@RP752000]

GREAT REVIEW!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks man!

[@chrisphilhower6029]

I have a 19 Kona SE AWD. With a few options. Not a bad car. Had to tint the rear windows to get rid of the Rental Car feeling. Previously I owned Tucsons. The Kona does Handle well. MPG? Around 31. I live in NJ. Haven't had a chance to try the AWD in the snow. Rain isn't bad.

[@abbaby555]

I'd have to go with the Kona, especially the EV version. It's outstanding

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one!

[@miguelircontar]

Waking up just in time to watch a Raiti’s Ride video 👍🏽

[@RaitisRides]

Good morning man!

[@anthonyhardison3398]

Hey Joe how are ya?? I really would like you to do a presentation on a 2020 KIA Sportage sx turbo.i asked this before I noticed you've done a few KIA's since I last asked. I've seen the Sportage from a few other presenters,but I this your videos are more informative....

[@stockey]

I prefer the boxy style of the Seltos.

[@RaitisRides]

AGREED!

[@tigertreetop]

JOE ~ I've heard more good than bad on the Kona (especially the EV) sure it lacks some nice features but 175 HP is actually pretty good for a small SUV of this price point, if a person just wants or needs the basics for a solid lil SUV with an incredible warranty ya can't really beat this. you are a true Professor of Carology > have a great weekend - tony

[@RaitisRides]

That is so really great Tony! Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@landonsnowberger8199]

Mr. Joe great review sir. Now I want Taco Bell. What do you want from there 🤣

[@robertk1049]

Any noticeable jerkiness with the DCT in stop-and-go traffic or at slow parking lot speeds?

[@anto41691]

Yes with my dct Veloster

[@jond8013]

I’ve been looking for a car to store my Twinkies 🤔 sold!

[@bretfrazier9269]

Thanks for the review as I like Kona and Seltos. I'm just curious, how many Twinkies do you eat?

[@MrKarmapolice97]

I’m really considering one of these or the Kia Seltos going to go test drive them see which one I like better

[@jerbsherb4391]

I was able to find this at the local dealership in it's highest trim for around 25k. The Seltos is marked up on all the dealerships. Definitely a better buy at the moment

[@jessicasanchez-cd3bl]

does the car lock itself for example when you park and close the door + walk away? (like detects the key fob isn’t inside the car anymore) ? i have the same question for the Seltos😫 currently have a honda civic hatchback and i love it but need a bigger car 🤩

[@juliodg2139]

hi man i enjoy all your videos very professional, i have a question about compact suv like this hyundai kona regarding reliability, which do you think is the best option, it is for my mom and she wants something reliable in the long term, thanks

[@RaitisRides]

It is a great choice Julio! You might want to also check out the Kia Seltos! I really appreciate your support!

[@19mterry]

Tacos in the passages door and Twinkie’s in the center compartment. 🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@bobbyenginejr3959]

I don't know. I think I like the Seltos a little more. Another great video. Thanks!

[@raymondku7811]

Good Morning Joe!

[@RaitisRides]

Morning Raymond!

[@abrahamnutrition]

Here is your Hyundai key fob. "It's got the condom on it I'm not gonna take it off it's for your protection and mine"! Lol

[@Solstice2127]

He relates to food..luv it

[@jiveteshbalajiramkumar5372]

Hey Joe I think the kona would be nice if this thing had a naturally aspirated 2.4 litre will have more hauling capacity and also a lot of reliability and also an eight speed automatic gearbox. Coz I hate CVT

[@RaitisRides]

It has a DCT not a CVT.

[@Rheisler1475]

Maybe the next GEN will have a 2.4 L, that’s what I’m hoping. I’ll trade my 2020 kona for that

[@randMcnally16]

So what is your best recommended sub compact suv?

[@emmagyamfi8686]

I'm gonna zonk where they place the head light

[@OrdinaryG33K-SF]

Joe really likes Twinkies, huh? He always makes reference to them!

[@dannyd7714]

Love our Kona!

[@edwoll]

Are you related to the Sham Wow guy? Your voice and presentation sure sounds a lot like his...

[@sethie9733]

can you take off that top cover that is in the trunk?

[@jacgell9760]

Do you recommend all wheel drive for Florida

[@1234zcrom]

Great prices. I'm in the market for a second vehicle for utility - I'll have to check this brand out.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@richjes411]

You didn’t go over the awesome safety features which are awesome. Big selling point !

[@BloodyMaryparanormalfun]

I have a kona ultimate and was disappointed that passenger side seat was not power. Also no cooling for the seats.

[@joshuanf1974]

Is this good for someone who is 6ft 2” ?

[@censusxnay]

Can you do the 2020 Kia Sorento?

[@CCD93]

Does your editor live in a locked basement? how do you put out so much quality content!

[@RaitisRides]

I am the editor! LOL

[@CCD93]

@@RaitisRides YEEEEESH workin over time man! you get my thumbs up 👍🏼

[@RaitisRides]

Carson Denny thanks my friend. You guys deserve it!

[@amauryplasencia6180]

@@RaitisRides I don't understand why you zonk things without knowing if we like it or no , you can't think for all of us .

[@ryzzn3170]

@@amauryplasencia6180 It's his opinion lol

[@bluesky5384]

I've seen both a Kona and a Seltos in my apartment parking lot, but only one of each. I like the Seltos just from seeing it in real life.

[@ITALYRS]

during the refresh they gnna bring the kona n line and kona N crazy...

[@TheNinoslow]

I have it , I love my Kona ultimate is a nice SUV and easy to drive

[@scottedmeads4326]

7:12-7:15 lol😂😂😂 btw this guys one of the most funniest car you tubers outs there

[@debbielocklin7563]

I am on my second Kona. I love them.

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that yo like them Debbie!

[@georgepantoja8576]

Great review like always. I think for 29k dual climate and more leatherette accents are a need. Too much hard plastic and the additional, not mentioned, zonk of dead buttons on the center stack. Like, it's the ultimate trim. the CX-30 is the winner interior wise.

[@joshua9073]

Agreed! I got a new VW Tiguan SE with more of everything for $24,500!

[@phillcollins8380]

Your reviews are very good. In this segment nothing compares to the Kia Seltos. Styling , amenities, value, roominess. Just my observation.

[@theyounglook1318]

Waiting for your intro Hyundai Elantra 2021 CN7. Come with 3 model, (Petrol, Hybrid, N Line) Fan of Hyundai Lover

[@stevee8318]

I like the Kona, but you could get a very well equipped Tucson if you're willing to pay into the upper 20k range

[@privateprivate5302]

i agree. my 2018 santa fe (xl) was 24k. but the Kona is a SUPER cute car. Like the Bug used to be way back in the day. The Kona always turns my head. If I didn't need the space of the XL, I would love to have a Kona as my every day driver just reminds me of a hatch back. Great first car for the high school senior/college freshman

[@trrippydude]

Yeah no some of us are on a budget 😂😂 I just bought myself a Venue and I love it so far!

[@BG-ig6fd]

@@trrippydude How are the seats? Comfortable? Thanks

[@trrippydude]

@@BG-ig6fd Hi Bethany, The seats are extremely comfortable! You have to test drive it and see if it suits you! I love it tho!

[@trrippydude]

@Uzizoe 10 not tight at all!

[@rickferr1546]

Are the 2021 konas cvt transmission ? Was online can’t seem to find out

[@mattagui5718]

Hey my brother checking in

[@TheSkyWhale]

There are ac vents for rear passengers under the front seats

[@TheSkyWhale]

@@ozzzy3z946 good to know. Thanks for the info!

[@melizaabad5655]

Is this car good for short people? Hoping for a response thanks!

[@jakenoltensmeyer7366]

There’s a refresh coming for 2021 with a 275 hp N version!

[@jamesgand828]

Which markets are getting it? Remember, North America always gets the N-Line which sucks nuts

[@rogersmith3295]

@@jamesgand828 why does that suck?

[@datdemoman1145]

@@rogersmith3295 its not a true N model

[@fruitbouquet5479]

@@rogersmith3295 I am guessing he is not in North America

[@drewlustre3673]

But how about the base models SE and SEL

[@johnjude2685]

Does it come with Three engines sizes and tell me more about the larger one with out turbo charger.

[@RaitisRides]

Yep

[@robertkeefer1552]

The new Joe Raiti hit. Sympathy for the SUV "Please allow me to go and zonk your car I'm man of wealth and fame"

[@haze1123]

Nice little vehicle. I actually want the electric version because I've got solar panels.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so very true! I am glad that you liked this one.

[@asdrubael1985]

here in Europe this car gets a lot of color(roof,air vents,seatbelts,stitching etc)..i think you have the silver detail one so it's not all that black*at least in my eyes.. ps. Excellent review as always

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing that great info! I appreciate you watching!

[@wxman2003]

I have a 2019 Kona AWD. Nice little CUV. Great in the snow. Does what I need it to do, plus a 10 year/100,000 powertrain warranty.

[@sherrid5315]

Does the black body trim fade over time ? Seen another review it’s possible I just got this three days ago and extended warranty you think if it did they would replace it! Any help here please ? Ty

[@wxman2003]

@@sherrid5315 No problem so far, but I have a garage.

[@sherrid5315]

Christopher Thank you thats my problem I don’t but I am planning to park it elsewhere in my apt complex!

[@wxman2003]

@@sherrid5315 It's a flat black trim. That's less likely to fade than a shiny black, I had a Jeep for 6 years with that flat black trim. It never faded. Even after 100,000 miles. And there is plastic cleaner that will keep it looking good. Go to Amazon, and search for Plexus. It is the best plastic cleaner and protectant on the market. www.amazon.com/Plexus-91-20214-01-Spray-Cleaner-oz/dp/B002MQCYO0/ref=sr_1_18?dchild=1&keywords=plexus&qid=1596267295&sr=8-18

[@sherrid5315]

Christopher Thank you so much I will definitely check into that ! I heard they used it to keep rocks etc from flying up off the road doing less damage to your vehicle! But hey one my neighbors told another it’s ugly lol must be a jealous thing ☺️

[@jeshely]

I remember around 20 years ago when 0-60 at 6 seconds was reserved to elite sport cars like the Acura Integra and they would throw you back much more than 29,000 of today’s money.

[@zamfiroctavvicentziu]

Nice car, I really love it but I still prefer the Mazda Cx30 for my taste. Nice review

[@RaitisRides]

Yeah the CX-30 is a better choice.

[@cindykeselowski899]

Nice review Raiti! What ya think, FWD or AWD? I live in Michigan but really how often do you really need AWD? (costs more and worse gas mileage)

[@RaitisRides]

I would go AWD!

[@cindykeselowski899]

@@RaitisRides but WHY if AWD costs more & decreases mpg?

[@cindykeselowski899]

@@RaitisRides Raiti, still waiting why recommend AWD over FWD when it adds weight & decreases mpg. Yes it helps in inclement weather but really only needed maybe 5 times a year. And it adds $1,400

[@cindykeselowski899]

Raiti, still waiting on your reply for justifying AWD over FWD on the Kona...thank you!

[@ervinmezey7572]

Hyundai (Kia) is a steel company that masquerades itself as a car company. That's not a bad thing and it is one reason their cars are a good value. It's also a reason many should consider these cars as safe as Volvos. For $29K, my only disappointment is no ventilated seats.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Ervin for sharing that great input and perspective!

[@ScooterWeibels]

I just bought a new Kona this week and I love it.

[@joshua9073]

Did you consider a Mazda CX-30? And congrats on your purchase ?

[@ScooterWeibels]

@@joshua9073 Yes I did an test drove one. I liked it, very nice interior, Just that Consumer Reports gave the Kona a buy recommendation.

[@joshua9073]

Scott Weber oh are they not recommending the Mazda yet ? I personally would go for Mazda but I do like Hyundai. I hope you have many years of good service and fun from her!

[@shammes53ify]

I too would zonk it for no air vents in the back, need that if you have kids or pets back there! Also, no connectivity back there, how is this an Ultimate trim?

[@sacrifice308]

Just picked one up , sadly I had to make some financial decisions and got rid of my mustang GT but I’ll definitely make this thing look good !

[@RaitisRides]

Adulting is very hard to do.

[@billjordan1173]

For me, the slightly roomier interior and the much better cargo space pointed me to the Seltos. You indicate the Kona cargo volume is around 23 cu. ft., but the specs on the Kona have it at just above 19, which is even less than the Soul. I've had my Seltos for 5 months now, and love it. I went for the FWD 'S' trim for the better gas mileage rating, which is better than the Kona's, so with price being comparable, not sure why anyone would choose the Kona over the Seltos.

[@MitchC357]

Would love to see the Crosstrek, Niro

[@crimnvL]

wow this became by dream car

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you like this one!

[@reynaldocordero4247]

The Kona is Nice! I had one as a rental when my car was in the body shop. The Kona is peppy with a smooth ride. I would definitely buy it.

[@Rheisler1475]

Reynaldo Cordero I have a 2020 limited, drove from Florida to MD to visit family and attend a wedding, beautiful smooth ride and comfortable

[@reynaldocordero4247]

@@Rheisler1475 Florida. I have a Cousin that lives in Tallahassee and a Uncle that lives in Virginia Beach. I live in Columbus Georgia. We're like a six degrees of separation. LOL. Back on topic the Kona is a nice compact suv with style and good horsepower.

[@Rheisler1475]

@@reynaldocordero4247 lol geez, well the good thing is you always have that change in seasons when you visit. yeah the kona is good, I was gonna get the Mazda CX-3 but I got the kona instead. Hyundai really surprised me.

[@reynaldocordero4247]

@@Rheisler1475 Exactly! The Kona surprised me as well. The acceleration and the exhaust note. You would've thought it had Sport written on the back. The Kona I drove was a rental. So you know it was the base model. There was nothing base about its performance, ride quality and sound. I was whole heartily impressed. Kudos to Hyundai.

[@monikamehra1010]

Hi, is there a way to send you and email about car decision? I am planning to get a car and watching your videos prove the amount of knowledge you have..

[@RaitisRides]

Yes there is: [e-mail]

[@CastleBlackWatches]

Just got the ultimate 2021 in thunder gray. Was a lot more fun than Lexus NX300/UX250 and Mazda CX-30/5

[@DK-pr9ny]

If you’re hear because of the title, skip it. He doesn’t say a word about how it compares to the Seltos..

[@squatCS]

cool car but I think I’d sacrifice a little space and go gt2 package on the Kia Forte GT, slightly nicer interior imo and it’s actually cheaper. I’m still so impressed with the Forte GT

[@RaitisRides]

Good move!

[@ContentinMesa]

You should review a Sportage sx. Love to see your thoughts

[@ModifyEverything]

new car smell every day!

[@RaitisRides]

Nice!

[@emmagyamfi8686]

IPad style infortament system is the best I promise you.

[@sherrid5315]

What you think about mudd flaps for this will it make it look sporty cause I only have a se the dealership said it give it more sport Style great deal too only 61.00 labor taxes etc ! With a coupon ?

[@RaitisRides]

It will protect your paint.

[@sherrid5315]

Raiti's Rides Thanks for all your help take care be safe ☺️

[@xcmskim4]

Kona all the way! The Seltos has a CVT (or as Hyundai/Kia calls it IVT). Hopefully the next generation has the 6 speed available and doesn’t come with the CVT (IVT)

[@bradyvelvet9432]

29k and no ac in the back?! No 12v in the cargo area?! 😾

[@davidrhee5515]

We tried the Kona and tbh it felt like a toy compared to the Mazda cx30. We also notice the number of used Kona’s on the market that are only a few years old. It feels like Hyundai still has a way to go compared to the major Japanese brands.

[@chrisa2223]

I’ve heard complaints that this transmission is jerky, especially from a start. Any thoughts on that?

[@cpl8168]

Yes, I'd like to know too.

[@Rheisler1475]

yeah it is jerky, it’s basically a manual. What do you want to do is wait for a gap in traffic so that rpm can reach The next gear without disruption

[@estpst]

The EV version is nice, test drove one in the dealers lot.

[@RaitisRides]

I need to get my hands on one.

[@6729solarwolf]

Does it have a spare wheel in the trunk?

[@RaitisRides]

Yes!

[@user-vm7tg1fd6y]

This car's in Saudi Arabia, like a pepsi can, it's everywhere.

[@GeN56YoS]

هههههههههه