2025 Hyundai Kona vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, and a turbocharged V8 engine, with various trim packages and equipment options available. The xDrive50e M Sport specification test vehicle came with Brooklyn Grey paint, 21-inch wheels, and all available equipment packages, priced at $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh, aligning it with other BMW models, and introduced the BMW Curved Display instrumentation and infotainment screen, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona, visually unchanged from the 2024 model, retained its distinctive appearance with a flush grille and ultra-slim LED light bars, giving it a futuristic look. The Kona's increased size, about six inches longer than its predecessor, improved interior space and road presence. The N Line S and N Line trims featured sportier designs with body-colored bumpers and cladding. The Kona offered trims named SE, SEL, SEL Convenience, and Limited, each adding visual enhancements like larger alloy wheels and rear privacy glass. The interior remained unchanged, with a solid construction and ample tech features. The 2025 model introduced standard 64-color ambient interior lighting on N Line, N Line S, and Limited trims. Sunroof and powered liftgate options were available on higher trims, enhancing the Kona's appeal.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with the xDrive50e PHEV receiving significant upgrades in electric range and power output. The PHEV's electric motor, integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allowed for 38 miles of electric-only driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV excelled in efficiency, achieving 33.7 mpg during a test drive and 38.8 mpg on an evaluation drive. The adaptive damping air suspension and 21-inch wheels provided a comfortable ride, while the quick steering and excellent visibility made it enjoyable to drive. The X5 PHEV was praised for its performance, especially in Sport mode, delivering excellent acceleration, grip, and steering response.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). The N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims had a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, enhancing performance. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup, offering active on-demand drive to the rear axle and a dedicated Snow mode. AWD models featured a multi-link rear suspension for improved ride and handling. The Kona prioritized competence in ride and handling, providing a comfortable driving experience.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five passengers and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered an optional third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona provided 25.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity, expandable to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, with 38.3 inches of headroom, ensuring comfort for most passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The drive selector was relocated to a stalk on the steering column, creating additional storage space. The Kona featured various upholstery options, with heated and ventilated front seats available on higher trims. The climate control system ranged from basic single-zone air conditioning to dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured a BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L satellite radio, connected services, and over-the-air software updates. The test vehicle included a Harman Kardon sound system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant had issues with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate directions. The head-up display effectively conveyed data, and the augmented video function for navigation was useful, though reliant on accurate directions from the assistant.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. SEL Convenience trim and above included wireless smartphone charging and Hyundai's digital key. Higher trims featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, enhancing customization and cohesion. The N Line and Limited trims offered an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system, while lower trims had a six-speaker setup. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity enabled over-the-air software updates, ensuring features remained up to date.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could behave unexpectedly in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though the system occasionally engaged hard braking without cause. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an IIHS safety award. The NHTSA gave the X5 a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Safe Exit Warning. Higher trims added Highway Driving Assist and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. Limited trim included parking assistance features. All Konas came with six airbags, electronic stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Kona earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.