This week we witness the launch of two B-segment SUVs in Malaysia – one Malaysian and the other Korean, but both were virtual. Today, Hyundai Malaysia has launched the 2020 Hyundai Kona starting at RM 115,888. This is a special introductory price as the normal price is expected to start at RM 123,888.

Do take note that the Kona we receive in Malaysia is the pre-facelift version. The facelifted version is only available in LHD with exception for the Kona electric. The version we get is a little more bulbous and doesn’t have a digital cluster.

The Hyundai Kona rivals the likes of the Honda HR-V, Proton X50, and Mazda CX-3. With a RM 115,888 price tag, the imported (CBU from Korea) from Kona is a bit more expensive than its CKD rivals.

In its most athletic form, the Kona is available with a 1.6-litre T-GDI engine (177 PS/265 Nm). The turbocharged engine is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The other powertrain option is a 2.0-litre NA engine (149 PS/179 Nm) paired to a 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

With the naturally-aspirated engine, the Kona is available in “2.0” and “2.0 Active” variants.
The "1.6 Turbo" starts at RM 143,888, while the "2.0” and "2.0 Active" start at RM115,888 and RM130,888 respectively. These are special introductory prices.

Without the special introductory prices, the Kona's variants are priced as such:

• 2.0 Standard - RM 123,888
• 2.0 Active - RM 138,888
• 1.6 Turbo - RM 151,888

Since we get the pre-facelift version, the exterior design is a little more bulbous. LED headlights are available on the “2.0 Active” and "1.6 Turbo" variants.

Compared to its rivals, the plastic claddings on the Kona are a little more prominent, giving it a tougher off-road-ish look. But don’t be fooled, power is only sent to the front wheels.

The full Hyundai Smart Sense ADAS suite is equipped on the 1.6 T-GDI High variant. It encompasses features such as FCA, LKA, RCCW, BSD, SCC, and Smart High Beam Assist.

Bright accents on the inside give the Kona a more youthful appeal, but apart from that, the Kona’s cabin is rather expected of its segment.

For added convnience, all variants of the Kona in Malaysia are equipped with Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.

Well-equipped in the safety department and with a rather decent powertrain, it seems the Hyundai Kona is a worthy rival to existing cars in the market.

Like the new Kona? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.