The Hyundai Kona I (facelift, introduced in 2020) 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid DCT represents a significant offering within the subcompact SUV segment. Production of this specific variant ran from January 2021 to April 2023. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and technologically advanced option, it aimed to bridge the gap between affordability and modern powertrain features. This model falls within the first generation of the Kona (internally designated as the Kona I), benefitting from the mid-cycle refresh that brought updated styling and enhanced equipment. The “DCT” designation indicates the use of a dual-clutch transmission, paired with a mild hybrid system to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Kona |
| Generation | Kona I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) Mild Hybrid DCT |
| Start of production | January, 2021 |
| End of production | April, 2023 |
| Powertrain Architecture | MHEV (Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 4.9-5.2 l/100 km (48 – 45.2 US mpg, 57.6 – 54.3 UK mpg, 20.4 – 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 128-136 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.46 kWh |
| Electric motor power | 14 Hp |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / D4FE |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.4 l (4.65 US qt | 3.87 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 525 kg (1157.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 374 l (13.21 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1156 l (40.82 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 12 l (3.17 US gal | 2.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4205 mm (165.55 in.) |
| Width | 1800 mm (70.87 in.) |
| Height | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2600 mm (102.36 in.) |
| Front track | 1559-1575 mm (61.38 – 62.01 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1568-1584 mm (61.73 – 62.36 in.) |
| Front overhang | 870 mm (34.25 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 735 mm (28.94 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 170 mm (6.69 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE and electric motor drive the front wheels in mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 235/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.0J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid DCT lies the Hyundai Smartstream D4FE engine, a 1.598-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, delivering precise fuel metering for optimized combustion. The 48V mild hybrid system incorporates a small electric motor and battery pack (0.46 kWh) to assist the engine during acceleration and allow for extended engine-off coasting, improving fuel economy. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2,000 and 2,250 rpm. The transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), known for its quick and smooth shifts. This DCT provides efficient power delivery and contributes to the overall driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp output, coupled with the DCT, provides adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds. While not a sporty configuration, the engine delivers sufficient torque for confident overtaking and merging. The DCT transmission contributes to a responsive feel, and the mild hybrid system provides a subtle boost during acceleration. Compared to higher-output Kona variants (like the 1.6 T-GDI gasoline engine), this diesel version prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine may feel slightly strained at higher speeds or when carrying a full load. Compared to a manual transmission version (if offered in some markets), the DCT provides convenience and ease of use, particularly in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid DCT typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as lane keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trim levels. Available optional extras included a sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and navigation. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered progressive upgrades in terms of interior materials, exterior styling, and technology features.
Chassis & Braking
The Kona utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, but the Kona still offers a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid DCT was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride. Its combined fuel consumption of 4.9-5.2 l/100 km (48-45.2 mpg) made it an attractive option for drivers seeking to minimize running costs. Compared to the gasoline-powered Kona variants, the diesel offered superior fuel economy, but at the expense of some performance. The mild hybrid system was praised for its contribution to reducing emissions and improving overall efficiency. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Smartstream engine proving to be durable and dependable.
Legacy
The Hyundai Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid DCT represents a key step in Hyundai’s push towards electrification and fuel efficiency. The powertrain, while not groundbreaking, offered a practical and economical solution for buyers in the subcompact SUV segment. In the used car market, these models are generally sought after for their fuel economy and relatively low maintenance costs. The DCT transmission, if properly maintained, has proven to be reliable. As with any diesel vehicle, it’s important to check for proper maintenance of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and AdBlue system. Overall, the Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid DCT remains a viable and attractive option for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped subcompact SUV.
