“Overall performance is great but has a few issues with the backup camera detecting oncoming vehicles.”
2020 Hyundai Kona: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The main change for the 2020 Hyundai Kona is the new SEL Plus trim, which turns the former SEL with Tech Package configuration into a separate model. The Iron Man edition is gone, and the range-topping trim gains adaptive cruise control; otherwise, the Kona largely carries over.
About the 2020 Hyundai Kona
1st generation (2018-2023), third model year and before the 2022 mid-cycle styling and technology update
Hyundai positioned the Kona as a small “urban adventurer”: easy to maneuver and park, but styled and tuned to feel more energetic than a basic commuter SUV. Its core appeal combines a compact footprint, useful hatchback cargo space, standard smartphone integration and collision-avoidance technology, plus a turbo powertrain on upper trims. The bold exterior and responsive road manners distinguish it from more conservative subcompact SUVs.
The 2020 Kona ranges from the straightforward SE, with smartphone integration and key driver-assistance features, to a technology-focused range-topping trim with a turbo engine, navigation, a head-up display, and adaptive cruise control. SEL Plus emphasizes convenience with wireless device charging, premium audio, a sunroof, and a power driver’s seat, while Limited pairs the turbo engine with leather seating and LED lighting.
What changed, by category
Trim lineup
SEL Plus joins the lineup as a distinct trim based on the former SEL with Tech Package configuration. The Iron Man edition is discontinued.
Safety
The range-topping trim gains adaptive cruise control, which maintains a set following distance from traffic ahead.
Tech
The new SEL Plus trim has a 4.2-inch color driver-information display and wireless device charging as standard equipment.
2020 Hyundai Kona specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 1.6 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, Turbo, GDI, 1.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 7-Spd EcoShift Dual Clutch w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Shiftronic | Automatic, 7-Spd EcoShift Dual Clutch w/Shiftronic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 27 mpg | 27 mpg | 28 mpg | 27 mpg | 28 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 33 mpg | 32 mpg | 33 mpg | 32 mpg |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 147 hp | 175 hp | 147 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 45.8 cu-ft | 45.8 cu-ft | 45.8 cu-ft | 45.8 cu-ft | 45.8 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in | 34.6 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||||
| Alarm System | |||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| LED Headlights | |||||
| LED Tail Lights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Privacy Glass | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| Navigation System | |||||
| Premium Audio | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Subwoofer | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Driver Seat | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
The biggest change is the addition of SEL Plus as a distinct trim. It is based on the former SEL with Tech Package configuration and focuses on convenience and technology features.
Was the Iron Man edition offered for the 2020 Hyundai Kona?
No. The Iron Man edition was dropped from the Kona lineup after 2019.
Did the 2020 Hyundai Kona get different engines?
No. The 147-hp 2.0-liter engine with a six-speed automatic and the 175-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic carry over.
Which 2020 Hyundai Kona gained adaptive cruise control?
The range-topping trim gained adaptive cruise control for 2020. The system automatically maintains a set following distance from the vehicle ahead.
Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona a major update over the 2019 model?
No. The 2020 Kona is a light trim-level update rather than a redesign. SEL Plus becomes a separate trim, the range-topping version gains adaptive cruise control, and the Iron Man edition leaves the lineup, but the engines and exterior design carry over.
2020 Hyundai Kona Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 Hyundai Kona.
4.2
2020 Hyundai Kona
(260 reviews)
“Fun to drive for a smaller SUV. Passing capability could be better. It could use more room in the vehicle. It was smaller than I expected.”
“Don't be afraid of moving toward electric vehicles. This vehicle is comfortable and will suit your needs for around town as well as moderate-length trips.”