Should you buy a Hyundai Kona? Technical Tour and Review

[@ChuongNguyen-up9fy]

Much better and in depth than the other guys. Not just “shiny chrome” make a car great….

[@ramonestrada8990]

totally

[@thewalrusmonger9878]

I have an N-Line and put 11,000 miles on it in just a little over 7 months. Love the car, the handling, comfort, etc. It could use a few extra inches in the back for adults to be comfortable but otherwise I really wouldn’t change anything.

[@lightandglory6583]

I also have a 2022 Kona N Line, that I've been driving for the last 11 months and for the most part really like it. It has its quirks and drawbacks. I owned two Chevy Cruises prior to this and would have bought another one if Chevy hadn't quit producing them. I agree with some of the analysis here but as far as the DCT goes, the only time I experience any chatter and apparent clutch slippage, is when I pull into the garage and have to go slow. I typically don't pull away slowly from a dead stop at a Stop sign, etc. That's just my style, and besides the car is so responsive that it takes off without much effort. Also, I haven't really noticed any issues in stop and go traffic. Overall I'm happy with the Kona N Line and enjoy driving it. That being said, the new 2024 redesign really has my attention and addresses most of the short comings that I found in the current version.

[@mikemanning2609]

My wife has the 2.0L smartstream engine in her new 2022 Kona SE(non turbo or gdi)(new engine for the Kona for 2022). Pretty smooth and good on gas so far.

[@kenhoward3512]

"Just to keep it honest: it's horrendous." - You are providing a valuable public service in warning potential buyers of DCT transmissions of their problems. Hyundai is certainly aware of the problems, which is why I would like to know how their new wet clutch DCTs will compare to this previous dry clutch design in durability. 'Guess we'll have to wait and see (or just buy something with a better reliability record).

[@Eugen-E]

There are already some complaints on the new Santa Fe with that wet 8DCT )))

[@kylosolo6128]

Dry DCT is probably the worst choice of transmission for an economy car. I have no idea why Hyundai still insists on using this POS transmission, like did they not see what happened to Ford's PowerShift?

[@Gerisheng]

I just bought a 2022 Kia Forte GT/GT2, which has Hyundai/Kia's 7-speed dry DCT, in February. These guys are known for making little running changes almost constantly, instead of waiting for major facelifts and generation changes, so I wonder if that's the case here...because I am completely happy with my DCT. I understand that it's not an auto and not a CVT, so I expect a little uniqueness in it's behavior. But it doesn't lurch or slip noticeably in stop-n-go-traffic. I'm still taking it easy for the break-in, but again, completely happy with how it behaves, and haven't felt ANY clutch chatter whatsoever (and I hear it's only better when driven hard). Maybe it's because it's in a Hyundai crossover and tuned a little differently in this video.

[@davidbee3736]

I used to love my Hyundai Kona. Sadly Hyundai have become very expensive. Dealer(a number of different main dealers) support if there are problems is non existent. Had to wait almost 3 months for a Drive belt. Ended up selling the car and buying another brand who’s dealer network provide excellent service.

[@FourJaysFour]

💯 agree. Dealer support (lack of) has ruined my Hyundai experience. I enjoyed my leased '18 Elantra GT Sport Hatch immensely. But after 3 years I knew I would not stay with the brand. I can't trust the dealers to care for my performance engine. Two different dealers have "forgotten" to perform scheduled maintenance. All they did was oil change. If I didn't know a little about cars, I would have been none the wiser until it siezed! It's back to either Lexus or Toyoya for me.

[@rokiacting6046]

Every video on your channel has to come a lot . Each video is a different pleasure to watch . Keep working like this on your channel you will be successful . please keep it up 😊😊😐😐😐

[@buggzo]

Best car info channel on YT for sure. Him and Scotty Kilmer are all you need.

[@RexenPrime]

These cars also have a NBTL feature, a Not Built To Last feature. Its unfortunate, but thats how it is these days.

[@geriscape]

An excellent caveat emptor review. You've highlighted a series of "red flags" about this vehicle. The turbo placement is meant to speed "planned obsolescence." The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission has, according to other sources, a history of problems (including a 2016 recall of Tucsons). The hesitation from a dead-stop and vibration issues aren't minor, IMHO. There have been fire-related problems on other models, via a faulty ABS module. For these reasons, and more, Hyundais are not my list of desirable cars, and they shouldn't be for anyone who has watched this video, and worked up a bit of background research that buttresses your analysis.

[@kenhoward3512]

Just looking at that engine compartment, I can only imagine the time/cost of disconnecting and removing everything, including the engine, just to get to the turbocharger for replacement or repair, then the time/labor involved in reassembling: a terrible, deal-breaking design (plus the DCT issues).

[@MrCarmelo1204]

It is still a junk car.. too many problems of a turbo charged engine … and still a KIA… I would spend money on Toyota..

[@DamienMorrissey]

Hyundai make a lot of cars. Perhaps this isn't great (in the form for the US market anyway), but others such as the i30 hatch are great. Let's also not forget the Ioniq 5 which is near universally rated brilliant. BTW we own three Toyota vehicles, but if I were to buy another car brand it would be Hyundai or Kia.

[@srobeck77]

The SE and SEL models arent turbocharged

[@nicolef2147]

Got it, I hesitate between this Kona and Yaris cross Toyota, I’ll buy a Toyota 👍

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Honestly just avoid the DCT, the regular automatics are pretty good

[@silentIm]

I don't get why the hate on DCT. As long as no half-brake during traffic, either fully brake to stop or fully release the brake to creep, the clutches should live a long life. No need to be agressive on pressing and releasing the brake pedal. It does need some time to get used to but driver does need to know manual transmission behavior so they can adapt to DCT easier. I never have problems with Hyundai/Kia DCT on my Kia Seltos turbo. It's very fuel efficient, no transmission ineffeciencies associated with torque converter, lighter rotational mass, very smooth on acceleration.

[@timm7524]

I also don't get the hate. I just got a 2021 Ultimate with 20k miles a few weeks ago. I've already driven in all conditions, fast and slow, through mountains and flats, open roads and stop and go, including one hour-long nightmare stop and go situation (the traffic, not the car). To me it runs very smooth and shifts quick, though I don't ride the brake pedal. I did get cooked clutch smell *once* from going/rolling too fast between R and D. I've never been good about that. Not even a single overtemp warning or choke though.

[@pilotgrrl1]

I'm not fond of Hyundai's transmissions. I test drove an Ioniq hybrid and found their CVT clunky, with noticeable jerks when it shifted, unlike Toyota's smooth shifting CVT in my Prius. I'm definitely not in the market for a new car, but you've solidified my decision to stick with Toyotas!

[@mercury683]

Ioniq 5, GV60 and EV6 have gotten tons of great reviews (research on KZbin) and their designs are a million times better than Toyotas

[@mercury683]

@@mottom2657I guess you have a short one and need to compensate by being a bully

[@andybub45]

Their 8 speed and 6 speed is really good. But their other ones are iffy

[@Eugen-E]

Ioniq hybrids has a 6 speed DCT, not a CVT.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

@@andybub45 that’s cause those 8 and 6 speeds been in production forever

[@MPGunther1]

When you get 100k on these, you may not be able to give them away. LOVE your in depth reviews

[@mr.c493]

I like the new intro!! I’m keeping my Toyota!!

[@coloradoboo1071]

Great job on the new channel intro and a nice and honest review on the Hyundai!! (I’ve not heard good things about that transmission, like the Nissan Rogue)

[@TwilightZoneX]

EXCELLENT and Honest Review! Very educational also.

[@philipev]

Loved this indepth review. I watched it just for it being so well done and interesting

[@travisp11]

I have a 2020 Kona SEL Plus with AWD, 2.0 NA. I’m sitting at 28K miles with no problems so far. I’m planning to keep it for at least 5 years till my bumper to bumper warranty runs out. My favorite feature is the Star button on the radio that can be pre programmed for a digital clock, either numerical or old school with hands in hours and minutes. So far, no problems at all and my car has the standard 6 speed automatic. As for the 10 year powertrain warranty, it’s only good for the first owner of the car. Hyundai must look at the data and they gamble that you won’t keep thjs car past a certain point and will sell it or trade it which then knocks the car down to the 5 year 60K mile warranty for the next owner. That or they simply engineer the car to last at least 10 years.

[@raycollington4310]

These videos are educational and gives a wider perspective on different brands. Can't wait until you get an Audi or BMW in your shop, that should be a great laugh. Thank you.

[@JorgeLopez-ix7up]

Lol. The money pits

[@rgl168]

I would love to see AMD reviewing European car brands. 🤣

[@tebitan3780]

My wife's Passat turbo diesel has a DCT transmission and everything is still ok after 325000 km (over 200k miles). So don't think all DCT's are bad. No idea about Hyundai though, never had one.

[@briantii]

Yeah, VW / Audi / Porsche DCT transmissions are the best out there. Most are very reliable and work well.

[@ramonestrada8990]

One of the BEST car review channels by a Mile. Thank you!

[@bwest-yq3uc]

Their Warranty is a Marketing Tool!. It has so many exclusions that force you to buy the upgraded version, it will blow your mind My family and I have owned these Koreans Products and over all I like them . Nice features and easy to change air filters, etc. Try changing a GMC pickup 5.3 v8, engine filter. GM make it harder than it should be. Or even changing the battery, UGH. Sorta like Toyota and their darn oil filter change run around. Really was not broken but they fixed it anyway. Thanks for the in-depth review.

[@krushmoto1]

Owned the 2016 Hyundai Tuscan Limited was a pretty good car until you hit NYC stop and go traffic. Kept getting transmission overheat warning messages. Hated the DCT! Otherwise the car was pretty good. Hit triple digits on straightaways while driving through the mountains. Car felt smooth and good power throughout the bands. Wife ended up creating an oak tree hood ornament so don't know about it's reliability. 😳

[@rightlanehog3151]

AMD, Please allow me to 'remix' my same old comments😉 I will give Hyundai/Kia credit for one thing, they make their CUV interiors much more space efficient than the current TNGA designs from Toyota. I wonder if Akio has a grudge against tall drivers.

[@darkoleljak732]

I love it. nice car. Just orderd one with dct. cant wait for it!

[@tammyjoma]

We bought a 2022 Kona Preferred AWD with an IVT transmission (Hyundai's version of a CVT), which was what it came with if you didn't get the turbo. A noticeably smooth ride, tons of safety features, easy handling, great entertainment system, but it can be loud inside on the highway and is just adequate on cargo space and rear-seat room. We test-drove several cars and did a lot of research before buying. The interior and exterior look at that price, comfort & smooth ride may have been the clinchers. Plus, we had an excellent salesperson which mattered to us. The shell doesn't feel nearly as solid as my last car, a Subaru Outback, but so far so good. Not nearly as good a warranty in Canada. It's been 1.5 years & not sure how it will be long-term without experience, but very happy so far. Lots of surprising little features. Need to stay on top of service that meets their warranty criteria.

[@MrDuncl]

I test drove the Kona's cousin the Kia Niro last weekend and was surprised and disappointed by how noisy it was inside. I certainly can't complain about the 7 year warranty you get on Kias here (just five years on Hyundai).

[@tammyjoma]

@@MrDuncl Huh, interesting. The noise doesn't surprise me in terms of Kia and Hyundai being related. I think Hyundai owns 33% of Kia, if I'm up-to-date. I wonder if the noise is related to the body as it doesn't feel as solid as a Subaru. When I looked up what can cause internal noise, there were so many aspects, including insulation, motor rotations, seals, etc., etc. Apparently, even individual cars can vary. Had not considered analyzing it before. Good for you for considering an EV or hybrid. I was not quite ready for a number of reasons, but it seems the way we're going. Canada's legislated that all new cars will be electric (zero emissions) by 2035. All the best on your car shopping.

[@MrDuncl]

​@@tammyjoma Thanks for the comprehensive reply. I actually went out in two different Niros and the second seemed a bit quieter but still had noisy brakes at low speed. The salesman told me that was normal for an automatic but I don't get any noises like I heard in my VW Golf. Yes we have similar rules coming in with no plain ICE cars after 2030 then EVs only after 2035.

[@billyboy1714]

Thanks for your insightful review. I haven't been following automobile development much for many years, but seeing so many Hyundais on the road led me to believe that Hyundai has become a mainstream choice alongside Toyota, Nissan, etc. Your very good review didn't dispel the notion that Hyundai is making better cars than they used to, but it did, fortunately, shed light on the weaknesses of the technology choices that Hyundai has made for its cars. I'm giving some consideration to trading my 2019 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon for a compact SUV (for accessibility and fuel efficiency), and your reviews are very helpful.

[@raylang339]

I just bought a 2023 Kona with a 2 liter MPI and ICVT. I love the little beast and should be trouble free for the next ten years. Yes, it is a little bit louder than even my ex Nissan Versa that was twelve years old but, hey, nothing is perfect in this mechanical world.

[@bootygobblemuncher]

I've been falling in love with the Hyundai Kona, but this video is the only video that actually highlighted the DCT issue. Living in NYC, I am always in stop-and-go traffic so this would definitely become an issue! I'm wondering, is the 10year-100k mile warranty is enough to still go ahead and purchase this vehicle in the near future?

[@ahmadghosheh3104]

The 3 axes of evil, GDI, Turbo, and DCT transmission. 😂.

[@srobeck77]

The Hyundia Kona SE and SEL base models then must be the good guy alliance since they dont have GDI, Turbo, or DCT.

[@Smoozable]

Why is that? Genuine question

[@luism8130]

DCT transmissions are amazing, but I’m not trusting a Hyundai DCT to last more than a handful of years. Weird decision going with a performance transmission on a daily driver.

[@Zephyrdaze1819]

I'm rather particular the infotainment's sound "Snowy Village"...reminds me of Mom's washing machine when it had an unbalanced load. Ah, the memories....

[@KD0LRG]

Just got my 2016 Kia Sorento back from the dealer after 3 plus months. Part of the valve went north causing a slight compression issue. Turbo took a hit and the upper cat was plugged due to huge oil consumption issue that was 1 day into the test when it had its compression issue. So now I have new head, turbo and upper cat. On the bright side Kia gave me a rental Nissan that got almost 40 mpg and I got to experience the cvt transmission which is shall I say unique.

[@TheNetToffee]

One can live with Turbo and GDi by doing good maintenance. However, DCT (DSG) is the opposite of reliability!

[@srobeck77]

I gotta bring into question the rationale of blanketing all the Konas as being DCI and turbocharged, when in fact the SE and SEL models have neither of those features. It's the more expensive trims: N-Line and Limited that offer the performance of turbos, direct injection, etc.

[@damiangrouse4564]

Found this channel…obligatory subscription…all the best Sir.

[@mrs.carcarenut8959]

Hi Damian, welcome to the TCCN community! If you would like to see more you can subscribe to the main channel The Car Care Nut

[@damiangrouse4564]

@@mrs.carcarenut8959 already there thank you!

[@davidelizabeth4933]

Huyundai may have decided "Turbo Charged" and "Dual Clutch Transmission" would appeal to the young adults they're likely targeting with this one. This car could make sense for those wanting something brand new who don't plan on keeping it long after the warranty ends. Great presentation as always, AMD! Thank you for discussing your long term longevity concerns with the turbo and DCT. ❤❤

[@srobeck77]

The 2 base models SE and SEL have neither the turbo nor the DCT

[@timm7524]

Speaking as a turbo/DCT Kona owner, some of this feels overblown. To me it drives wonderfully, but it's pretty well matched to my driving style. Though I also don't understand the stop and go concern, even having been caught in an awful jam just last week. It isn't hard to not creep the brakes, and it's pretty tolerant even if you do (but don't though). Guess time will tell! Only 20k miles. Ironically the Kona had many problems with the 2.0L naturally aspirated engine when it launched and almost none on the 1.6L turbo. And I'll take this DCT over CVT any day.

[@Steve_in_NJ]

2022 Kona Limited owner here -- leased mine October 2021, has just over 6K miles on it. I'll buy it at the end of the lease because the new Hyundai vehicles are getting priced out of their market and dealerships are becoming "take it or leave it" bums.

[@guse1748]

Same here

[@jaredhaase5282]

2018 Limited AWD w/ the 1.6GDI and 7spd DCT - really no issues if you don't drive like a moron. 33k miles.

[@jscancella]

You should do a review of the Kia carnival and Honda Odyssey. They were the only other minivans I looked at before I decided on the Sienna

[@Fister_of_Muppets]

I own a Ford that is a V6 twin-turbo GDI. I own a Lexus with the Toyota 3.5L NA w/port injection. I maintain my vehicles myself, the right ways. The reliability of the Toyota 2GR-FE is miles ahead of the Ford, and I attribute that to being an "old school" port-injected NA engine. The turbos and GDI in the Ford engine (and lack of quality from other systems) has created a lot of unscheduled maintenance headaches. Meanwhile, there have been zero issues with the Lexus/Toyota. Hyundai/KIA and Ford, and others share similarities in this regard. Small turbocharged engines, GDI, sketchy transmissions, etc. They're not built to last like they used to. They're built to sell, and last until the drivetrain warranty is over. I was a Ford fan for 40 years. For overall reliability and cost of ownership, if my Lexus ever wears out, I'll buy another Toyota/Lexus as long as their quality stays up and they're not building cars like this Hyundai.

[@Jeff-yf8pf]

Direct injection, turbos, cvts, dcts. I don't think any of these were made for longevity all for fuel economy. Not good for stop and go traffic. I'll take a port injection engine with a regular automatic trans any day. I really think the ecvts that Toyota and Ford make are the best

[@srobeck77]

Ok but you are aware that the base models of Kona SE and SEL dont have turbo, cvt, or dcts, direct injection, ya?

[@wyw201]

@@srobeck77 Why don't Hyundai put DCTs or DIs into base Kona? How much money does Hyundai save on each?

[@srobeck77]

@@wyw201 they cost more and a fair number of people dont like them anyway from the reviews i read

[@AbbaZabbaHaHa]

Whenever you can please do a review on the Hyundai Ioniq, I'd like to know your thoughts on the projected reliability of the Hyundai branded hybrids.

[@whatchis1120]

Totally agree with you about the dct, stick with VAG if you want one and service it they've been doing it way longer. My Elantra has been good so far only a 1 minor issue very early one the seatback latches failed, owed for just over a month 3600 miles. I drive a lot and wanted a decent car to drive that was kinda cheap and good mpg, all the yota dealers in a 300 mi radius think their corolla's are made of gold a basic se 2.0 was nearly 30k with the mark up. If it blows up I'll trade it in just to say I tried one, thankfully I am able to do so if it happens, and maybe all this shortage bs will be over by then.

[@MrDuncl]

Hyundai give a five year warranty here in the U.K. In the review he seemed to miss the point about mpg. According to official Government figures here DCT is more economical than a manual gearbox.

[@bengeist3227]

I don't have this car nor do I plan to buy one... But your talks are so interesting and informative. I feel like I'm learning something new each I view one of your videos. And they are well produced. So thanks and keep them coming!

[@JPX20005]

Hi Mr. Car care nut, I wanted to ask you if it is possible for you to review a Mazda 3 o Mazda CX-30, either 2.0 or 2.5lts. on your remix channel. Thanks..

[@elithegreat6463]

Hyundai & Kia....The BIC lighters of the car industry. They may work for a while, but eventually, they become throwaway's

[@InternetDude]

You are such an amazing man and mechanic but please have you looked up the definition of Remix? I can't understand for the life of me why you'd name this channel that. How about The Car Care Nut Extras? There must be a better word. Honestly though I think you should put all your content on the main channel, there is zero reason to limit yourself to Toyota only. I'm here for you, not just Toyota content. No offence!

[@mrs.carcarenut8959]

Remix made sense to us since AMD is a musician so we believe it goes well with his essence. Thanks for your support!

[@InternetDude]

@@mrs.carcarenut8959 I know nothing about music, I guess it's a term used there. OK.

[@TheCarCareNut]

I hear you. I did a vote post on the main channel. We’ll see what the family decides as a whole and go from there

[@InternetDude]

@@TheCarCareNut wow thanks I voted and commented 😁

[@FourJaysFour]

It's a cornucopia, melange, variety, whatever he calls it I will watch every video and gobble up the valuable Information!

[@zezrahl]

I got an Ioniq .. that sadly shares this transmission. If you treat it well its not to bad but horrendous is an understatement in stop and go traffic as well as coming to stops, you basically become a bobble head with every down shift. Compared to the sienna cvt , i'll take the cvt every day.

[@shrijanaryal4923]

Hope you can do Hyundai's N division's (veloster N or elantra N or Kona N) in depth as well some day 🙏🙏🙏 I have one- elantra N in manual and there's no content online like yours that goes deep into different components, and we'd like to see exactly this type of review.

[@currylove2519]

How do you think of Kona N, my friend? Great videos!!!!

[@AmandaBurnsTendaena]

I had a 2018 Equinox with a turbo powered engine before and I live in the Midwest. It along with a lot of other intercoolers froze up one winter. I said never again. So I traded it in and got a 2021 Rav4. I'm so much happier with it.

[@steves7973]

Good info, a car to avoid, can you imagine buying one of these second hand with all those issues. I wish designers would give a thought to the people who have to repair them !

[@Mach141]

I love the Sounds of Nature feature!

[@Eugen-E]

I can tell you that in Europe, the previous gen Tucson with the 7-speed dry DCT had A LOT of problems. Many people were changing those clutches every 20-30k miles again and again. And in stop and go traffic the message "Transmission overheat" appears. And even the new wet 8DCT on the new Santa Fe got complaints from clients. And another drawback is this engine is not very efficient. You can see MPG tests, the A25A is way more efficient. And also their hybrids based on this engine are not efficient too. Not to say that if you turn on the climate on those hybrids the car will start the engine even if you are in full EV mode...

[@nixnet83]

Turning on heat makes the ICE come on if you don't have a heat pump in the car and the heating system is cold. When it warms up enough it will turn the combustion engine off. Not a big of a deal usually TBH. The energy is not wasted because you charge the battery. Yeah, KIA engines are not super effective, but they are getting better. Upside of KIA having DCTs in some HEVs is a much higher tow weight vs (e-)CVT. DCT is rarely a problem for me - if You want to speed up quickly, change the driving mode to sport so the gear change lag goes away. It only feels a bit jerky in winter when the engine or transmission oil is still cold after start - only for up to a minute. For some reason Toyota CHR HEV has worse MPG than KIA Niro at highway speed, so that's something nice I started to appreciate lately :) I got to travel 2200miles last month (mostly highway) with 48MPG in my Niro HEV. Pretty good to me for a low tech engine in a heavy vehicle trying to pass for a SUV xD. If the direct injection generates enough carbon deposit to be a problem I'll just have it cleaned with some magic foam - problem solved ;) That's a tradeoff for better MPG / less CO2 emissions in a less complicated (cheaper) engine. 20000 miles driven so far, no problems.

[@Eugen-E]

@@nixnet83 Yeah, and the RAV4 Prime (plug-in hybrid) has a heat pump ))) Hyundai/Kia does not. Low-cost PHEVs. Firstly, tucson hybrid doesn't tow much more than the rav4 hybrid. It can tow up to 2000lbs with trailer brakes and rav4 hybrid can tow up 1750lbs also with trailer brakes. Secondly: How many Tucson owners tow heavy trailers ? No one ))) get a Highlander Hybrid and you can tow up to 3500lbs. So yeah, eCVTs can tow. There is no Kia/hyundai hybrid that has better mpg than a comparable toyota hybrid. I've driven a Kia Optima Hybrid which had A LOT worse MPGs than an older Lexus ES300h which was heavier and more powerful. 20 000 miles with no problems is not exciting at all. Drive at least 250 000 miles and then lets talk about it.

[@nixnet83]

Yeah there are about 3 people in the world that really need an actual hybrid to do heavy towing instead of a diesel :D There is a Toyota hybrid with worse MPGs than KIA - like I said, its CHR vs Niro but only at highway speeds xD Also the KIA has better towing capacity (725kg for CHR vs 1300kg for Niro), infotainment, cabin space, more tech at a lower price. Overall the Niro seems to be a better car IMHO. Ofc the sales figures say I'm wrong - for every Niro sold there are probably a 1000 CHRs sold ;) Maybe I just like an underdog...

[@MrDuncl]

@@nixnet83 I test drove a first gen Niro Hybrid last weekend and was disappointed by how noisy it was inside. My wife's Skoda Citigo that cost 1/3rd of the price new is quieter (confirmed by driving it the next day) Any opinions on that ? Apart from the noise I liked the Niro.

[@jeffd3844]

You should have titled it "But...That's What They Went With". Thanks for another great car review. Where else can you get reviews like this from someone who knows what they're talking about! I didn't know anyone was putting DCTs in cars. Honda has been putting them in motorcycles for several years now. As far as I can tell, they hold up well.

[@linuxkernel4.199]

Given Mazda's skyactiv drive 6 speed transmission is starting to become a little dated... I Know its a reliable and efficient with low speed toque converter lockup.. very smooth shifting as well.. I would take it any day over a Hyundai product DCT with the common overheating problem under any sort of stress..aka snow conditions and wheel slip.

[@stevenweiss2148]

that warrenty saved me at least $950.00. just shy of 3 years old the battery died. replaced under warrenty. past 3 years old both headlight units had to be replaced as an issue with the high beams. replaced under warrenty. passenger side door speaker issue. replaced under warrenty. that is the 5 yr/60k bumper to bumper. The 100,000 mile powertrain warrenty ONLY applies to the original owner. Otherwise the aforementioned 5y/60 k if you buy a used Hyundai.

[@pianoplayer2516]

I personally would never buy a gas powered Hyundai. I might consider one of their EVs though. I know they have an electric version of this car. Seems pretty cool. I know the early versions of it had problems with the battery catching fire.😂They have supposedly solved this issue now.

[@damilolaakanni]

I'd stay away from all of them. They make a few good looking cars with nice interiors (Palisade, SantaFe, SantaCruz, Veloster, Ioniq 5), the rest are ugly. And reliability is usually hit or miss.

[@joebrown9621]

I've had a few debates in courses and seminars about intercooler.. aftercooler.. liquid to air or air to air.. in the heavy industry liquid to air as been around for ages and my first time seeing liquid to air intercooling on a car was on a late 90's Celica rally car.. the reasons why most manufacturers have moved away from liquid to air is because of heat soaking which the air to air doesn't suffers to as much.. to get away from heat soaking in the rally car they had a separate cooling system reservoir, pump and heat exchanger dedicated just for the intercooler

[@loerber]

Great video! Can you do a Honda hrv and compare to Corolla Cross?

[@dgurevich1]

I wonder when will you review a full EV? The Kona exists as an EV also, and that version might interest people.

[@BrockOBauma]

I'm loving the new channel.

[@devwhit]

I hope you have the Honda Civic Si in your sights AMD. 👍🏻

[@devwhit]

@ŽAID DIAŽ (ⰆⰀⰋⰄ ⰄⰋⰀⰆ) Yeah, but that ain’t the Si. 😎

[@bwest-yq3uc]

My hat is off to the car makers that are still producing entry level vehicles,. Unlike the Big 2.5 Auto Makers. Where do first time buyer go to and where will they return to for their vehicles purchases?. They can not or maybe want a $75K pickup or suv.

[@trdrav4]

AMD, I've got an Elantra Sport (my first non Toyota) with a 1.6 Turbo GDI engine similar to this Kona (It is a nice package indeed). I agree, its designed to be more efficient but the engine does give me a little more fun. What are your thoughts of adding a catch can? I've bought one made specifically for it and plan to add soon. Also, mine is a 6 speed manual because it is more engaging to drive, but not to mention better than the DCT (The N cars use a wet setup). Glad to see Hyundai giving you cars besides Toyota; they need to provide you an Elantra N to review. I think most buyers would be best to get the normal Kona without the turbo and regular automatic transmission (SE or SEL grade).

[@FourJaysFour]

The Elantra Sport GT won me over too. It's a fun car. Hearing about the fragility of the design is disconcerting. I had my fun but I've also found myself going 90MPH everywhere. I think I'm ready to go back to a sensible, reliable Toto or Lexus PHEV

[@trdrav4]

@@FourJaysFour You read my mind. I like my Elantra that I would want to keep it as long as I can, BUT I would also want to buy another Toyota product as a second car just for the ease of ownership too. Sucks that the market is too crazy that I would have one already.

[@m.b5777]

The amount of engine problems Hyundai/Kia have is staggering. The worst years are 2011-2016 but I have even seen 2021 with engine issues. Millions were recalled. Millions more were not covered by any recalls. That is why there are multiple class action lawsuits going on.

[@guidedbygreen1480]

The recall actually spans from 2011-2019, and yes, the 2020-2022 are now starting to trickle in with engine failures.

[@TaijiArban]

It's sad as well because other than the drivetrain, I really like them. But I still bought a rav4 because I am a simple man.

[@JV-ih8vt]

Not in this engine (award winning actually).

[@TaijiArban]

@@JV-ih8vt what awards?

[@timm7524]

@@JV-ih8vt People neglect the part where that was actually an awful run on a different engine.

[@JV-ih8vt]

It is the Gamma 3 (redesigned 2 years ago) and its a little ground breaking as it's the first engine with fully continuous variablet timing. The clutch in this transmission should last like any regular clutch (120K to 200K) and its not hard to replace. Loud? They actually added double pane windows and extra insulation so yours must have some issue. This car was rated 89/100 in reliability. One of the highest. The gas mileage is surprising (36-40 highway, 24-26 city). The warranty is unbeatable and they do stand behind it. Use full synthetic oil and don't over abuse the clutch and it should be a very reliable car.

[@Steve_in_NJ]

I lease a 2022 Kona Limited in Thunder Grey and you are so right about the DCT starting from a standstill and stop and go traffic. I found it interesting that new videos of the 2024 Kona show the redesigned version looking like a "mini" version of Ioniq 5 and the DCT is replaced with an eCVT (did Hyundai finally get the message about DCT?). I do like the "bells and whistles" on my Limited and not only does the car remind you of wipers on/off, and leading car moving, but with the ACC set or LKA on, you also get a chime and message about keeping your hands ON the steering wheel (it's not a self-driving car). That's cool. But I get that warning sometimes when my hands are not in the 10 and 3 o'clock position. Like a nagging mother or wife sometimes! LOL

[@thomaseaton4077]

Thanks for a great and relevant review. What I learned was enough to strike it from my consideration.

[@vfc1860]

Great review, you are my go to guy for auto info! Thanks

[@xtremegamer78]

I've had a VW Golf with DCT for 4 years and no issues.. I think it's the driver is the problem 🙃

[@EL-yi6df]

Congratulations for the insightful review. I've subscribed to your channel right away.

[@jpmccormac]

Great review, as always. I was hoping to see back seat room and cargo area, but I'll never own a DCT tranny. My wife's Ford Focus DCT was constantly in the shop in the first year of ownership.

[@JDMSwervo2001]

Cause it’s a ford

[@xtremegamer78]

I've had my VW Golf for 4years with DCT and no issues.

[@roris5882]

The 1st generation Ford Focuses ran forever because they were over engineered when they were a brand new model that Ford wanted to promote. I just scrapped my 2005 Focus because the frame finally rusted out and it wasn't worth fixing. The motor in that beast was still running strong and I beat the hell out of it but it wouldn't die. I bought it when I was in the Army and used to drive it back and forth from Georgia to Ohio and all over the place. Someone even stole it and I ended up recovering it in Florida. I also inherited a 2012 Focus and that wasn't built that well. The Transmission blew on it while it was still under warranty so Ford had to fix it.

[@LT33190]

Mazda CX-30 next please!!

[@FourJaysFour]

I would love to hear more about Mazda too

[@mercury683]

You need to review Ioniq 5, EV6 and GV60

[@soumentalukder4750]

I have a 2006 Toyota Matrix with 255k miles, runs fine with original transmission.. Lol, i wonder what percentage of Hyundai Konas will reach that kind of mileage without replacing the tranny, or without major engine work for that matter

[@rightlanehog3151]

0.00001% 😂

[@soumentalukder4750]

@@rightlanehog3151 😂

[@rightlanehog3151]

@@soumentalukder4750 My Matrix in disguise Pontiac Vibe turns 17 this month. With just 3 non-scheduled repairs in all those years, I will stick with Toyota .

[@soumentalukder4750]

@@rightlanehog3151 cool, i had one of those that reached 300k with original transmission.. just wear & tear maintenance.. probably would've reached 400k 👀

[@flex5966]

Remember Fords DCT, Big Failure, Honda's 1.6 Dream engine with oil dilution issues ( Soft piston rings ) VW's TDI's that clogged up Quickly. OIL separator can be in this car's future.

[@sankloo]

When will you be reviewing 2022 Hyundai Tucson hybrid. I am curious about your take on this powertrain since consumer reports has rated this car very well. Btw thank you for starting this remix channel because I really follow your video and your take on maintaining Toyotas.

[@user-bs1wx1tb7e]

Since you are american, you need to understand that Hyundai's (and Kia's) main market is the EU. Sure, they sell cars in the US, but they are designing them for the EU market. And here regulations and taxes regarding higher displacement engines and CO2 emissions are extreme. Cars can become extremely expensive to buy if they have a larger CO2 emission number due to taxes, and in many places there are things like luxury lifestyle taxes if you own engines from 2.0L and up etc... Plus we have very expensive gas here. So, that is the reason for the Kona. It is designed as a crossover for people who cannot afford and maintain the humongous SUVs americans use (and to be fair roads in Europe as narrower too).

[@pirrostsakas]

so is it better to use manual shift ( +_ or paddle shifters in sport mode ) for stop and go traffic situations?

[@fairbanksbrian]

I'd take a plain old manual transmission any day over a DCT. Having said that, you'd think that they would have come up with a way for the driver to manually briefly clutch out, then clutch in and coast in stop and go traffic. Perhaps using the paddle shifter? That way it would mimic what a manual transmission driver does in creeping stop and go traffic. Alternately, use the LIDAR system to provide ultra low speed cruise control and automatic braking to accomplish the same end result.

[@auralstudent2841]

Great review, Sir ! Good attention to details.

[@kwhite145]

I had a 2019 Kona with the 2.0 what a dog got a 2022 Tucson Hybrid what a car!

[@briany3002]

I wouldn't buy one, I don't understand why people do. Unless you didn't plan on keeping it. a Corolla cross would literally last twice as long. I'd lean towards longevity

[@bigdi77]

People buy what they want that's why

[@ronaldcarnevale3424]

I love mine. Sorry

[@gasman8750]

I like the wheels, but not enough to buy this over a Toyota :-p

[@carlosmartinez2748]

Thank you so much for your video, very educational. Help me understand one thing? What would be the appropriate way to drive it ? Aggressive for the double clutch or moderate to avoid the issue between gear 1 and 2 ?

[@DKSE123]

Make sure you tell people about the hyundia kona's oil burning issue as well

[@greggost6493]

I rented one for Thanksgiving weekend. It was ok. Terrible cargo area though. Full size suitcase required 1 seat down.. easy on fuel use.

[@landshass2849]

Hi AMD, I want to upgrade my steel wheels on 2021 Camry hybrid. TireRack says I need to buy a program device. Do I need to program the aftermarket TPMS that will come installed on the wheels/tires package from TireRack?

[@bbminetesting6837]

I rented a 2023 Kona to drive to the Rockies. First thing I noticed when I got in the car was how cheap the door felt. Cruise control struggled to maintain speed on the slightest hills, which was pretty annoying, especially when passing someone in the left lane. My 2012 Accord has no problem maintaining the same speed. On the highway, the low oil pressure light came on. The driver assist features were nice, and it drove alright up and down Pikes Peak. Cool little car to rent, but I would never buy one.

[@SabreLeonheart]

The sounds of nature... I already do this with KZbin music on my Toyota 😂

[@sgnt9337]

OMG the Nature Sounds feature is a great idea 💡 The loudness (and DCT) is a deal breaker for me.

[@MrYeahii]

Please review the mazda 3

[@BCPCamerasTech]

Amazing info. Just bought a Kona and would love to know how to properly drive and maintain it. Any chance you have a good reference to direct me to?

[@ingenunis5003]

EXCELLENT VIDEO👌🏼

[@johncaruana6406]

Great review. The transmission issues and turbo placement make this a non-starter for me.

[@andybub45]

I like some Hyundai/Kia products, but this one seems kind of disposable

[@davidperry970]

Nice review, I had this one on my short list. It just pisses me off that the manufacturers quit making a real manual transmissions.

[@roris5882]

When I went to my local VA hospital there was a bunch of the AWD base model Konas, without the Turbo or duel clutch system, in the workers parking lot. So the US Gov't or Department of Veterans Affairs must have a contract with Hyundai to supply them for their employees. Their AWD is probably good in the snow from the lake affect weather.

[@Haymaker72]

Have a 2019 and 2022 Kona and keep hearing about these engine issues and we have none. My only complaint with the car is sound quality and cabin noise.

[@lexiriz4294]

Checking out a 2019 kona tomorrow. Is your thoughts still the same? Good vehicle?

[@Haymaker72]

@@lexiriz4294 I’ve had zero issues. I’m using the 2019 as my car and still love it. Still my only complaint is cabin noise is loud and sound system is just ok.

[@Shadow88881]

Great video, would you also be able to review the Elantra N as well? Thanks

[@peoplelikeus3684]

How does the model compare to the N racing variant in terms of quality / heavier duty components? Is it reliable over the long term?