The Hyundai Kona I (facelift, introduced in 2020) 1.6 CRDi 136 Hp Mild Hybrid represents a significant step in Hyundai’s efforts to offer fuel-efficient and technologically advanced subcompact SUVs. Production of this specific variant ran from January 2021 to April 2023. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Kona lineup, it aimed to bridge the gap between the base engine options and the more powerful gasoline variants. This model leverages a 48-volt mild hybrid system to enhance fuel economy and reduce emissions, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and environmentally conscious vehicle. It primarily targeted the European market, where diesel engines and fuel efficiency are highly valued, though it was also available in select other regions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Kona |
| Generation | Kona I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CRDi (136 Hp) Mild Hybrid |
| 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) | 4.9-5.1 l/100 km (48 – 46.1 US mpg, 57.6 – 55.4 UK mpg, 20.4 – 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 128-134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 209 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 | 280 Nm @ 1500-3000 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-3000 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 | 1340 kg (2954.19 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1875 kg (4133.67 lbs.) |
| Max load | 535 kg (1179.47 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 | 6 gears, manual transmission iMT |
| 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 lies the Smartstream D4FE engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a second-generation diesel commonrail injection system for precise fuel delivery, contributing to both efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine is turbocharged and intercooled, allowing it to produce 136 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm. The mild hybrid system consists of a 48-volt electric motor and a small battery pack (0.46 kWh). This system provides a power assist during acceleration, allowing the engine to shut off during coasting and deceleration, and enabling a smoother start-stop function. The transmission is a 6-speed manual transmission with an intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT) system, which uses a clutch actuator to provide smoother gear changes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid Kona offers a balanced driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the 136 hp engine and 280 Nm of torque provide adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes approximately 10.3 seconds. The mild hybrid system helps to fill in torque gaps during acceleration, making the car feel more responsive than a comparable non-hybrid diesel. The iMT transmission contributes to a more refined driving experience, although it doesn’t offer the engagement of a traditional manual gearbox. Compared to higher-output gasoline versions of the Kona, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright performance. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, resulting in a comfortable cruising experience but potentially requiring more frequent downshifts when overtaking.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid Kona typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These 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 a navigation system. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The Kona utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, suitable for everyday driving. 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 rather than sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Kona 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and well-equipped interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the gasoline-powered Kona variants, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy, but at the cost of some performance. Compared to other diesel-powered subcompact SUVs, the Kona offered a competitive combination of features, fuel efficiency, and price.
Legacy
The 1.6 CRDi Mild Hybrid powertrain has proven to be relatively reliable, with few widespread issues reported. The Smartstream engine is known for its durability, and the mild hybrid system has demonstrated good longevity. In the used car market, this variant of the Kona represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and well-equipped subcompact SUV. Its combination of practicality, technology, and affordability has ensured its continued popularity among used car buyers. The introduction of this mild hybrid powertrain also signaled Hyundai’s commitment to electrification and paved the way for the fully electric Kona Electric.
