2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, enhancing its sophistication with a 1.6-inch increase in length, revised front and rear fascias, and sporty new character lines. The updated LED lighting and new alloy wheel designs contributed to its modern appearance. Inside, the Kona's instrument panel and center console were separated to create a more spacious look, complemented by ambient lighting and a rear USB port for added convenience. The introduction of the N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, such as body-color cladding and exclusive interior features, enhancing the vehicle's sporty appeal.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid, built on the N3 platform, was 7.1 inches longer with a 3.4-inch longer wheelbase, offering increased rear-seat legroom. Its bold styling featured angular LED headlights and "boomerang" LED daytime running lights, setting it apart from other vehicles. The Sportage Hybrid's interior was designed around a large infotainment display, with a minimalist look and SynTex artificial leather upholstery. Despite some materials feeling cheap, the overall design was elegant, with thoughtful touches like a rotary shift knob and clever cupholder designs.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a variety of powertrains, including a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine delivering 195 horsepower. The Kona N featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 276 horsepower, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona N Line, with its 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and seven-speed DCT, provided a spirited driving experience, with ample torque and composed handling, making it enjoyable both in city settings and on the highway.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid utilized a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and a single electric motor, producing 227 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The powertrain offered smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and gasoline power. The Sportage Hybrid's well-tuned transmission and quiet cabin contributed to a pleasant driving experience. While not a driver's car, it provided a comfortable ride, although its steering felt artificially heavy in Sport mode. The Sportage Hybrid's towing capacity was 2,000 pounds, slightly less than the non-hybrid version.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, despite its compact size, offered ample front-seat comfort with good headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced limited space due to small door openings and a sloping roof. Cargo space was tight, with 19.2 cubic feet available with all seats up, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Towing was not recommended for the Kona.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid provided competitive interior space, with best-in-class rear-seat legroom and a dual-level cargo floor for flexibility. It offered 39.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 73.7 cubic feet with them folded. The Sportage Hybrid's interior featured a rotary shift knob and clever storage solutions, enhancing usability and comfort.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona came equipped with an 8-inch display, Bluetooth connectivity, and optional SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard with the base screen, while the larger screen required wired connections. The Kona also featured Hyundai Blue Link, providing remote services and a digital key.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid's standard infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a panoramic display. The Sportage Hybrid offered touch controls, USB-C ports, wireless phone charging, and an upgraded Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The Kona received five stars from the NHTSA for overall crash protection and "Good" ratings from the IIHS in crashworthiness tests.

The 2023 Kia Sportage Hybrid's base trim included forward collision warning, lane keep assist, and automatic high beams. Higher trims added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The SX-Prestige trim offered advanced features like a blind-spot view camera and Remote Smart Parking Assist, setting it apart from competitors.