The Hyundai Kona I (facelift, introduced in 2020) 1.0 T-GDi 120 Hp Mild Hybrid represents an entry-level powertrain option within the second generation of Hyundai’s subcompact SUV. Production of this specific configuration ran from January 2021 to April 2023. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and accessible variant, it aimed to broaden the Kona’s appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality. This model utilizes Hyundai’s Smartstream engine family and incorporates a 48-volt mild hybrid system to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It primarily targeted the European and Asian markets, where smaller, more economical SUVs are highly sought after, but was also available in select North American markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Kona |
| Generation | Kona I (facelift 2020) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 T-GDi (120 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) | 5.7-6.1 l/100 km (41.3 – 38.6 US mpg, 49.6 – 46.3 UK mpg, 17.5 – 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 129-138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 94.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm, 136 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 0.46 kWh |
| Electric motor power | 14 Hp |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 172 Nm @ 1500-4000 rpm (126.86 lb.-ft. @ 1500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream / G3LF |
| Engine displacement | 998 cm3 (60.9 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 71 mm (2.8 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.6 l (3.8 US qt | 3.17 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1265 kg (2788.85 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1795 kg (3957.3 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 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) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 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, 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 this Kona variant lies Hyundai’s Smartstream G3LF 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine. This engine is characterized by its compact design and focus on efficiency. It utilizes direct fuel injection and a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver a balance of power and fuel economy. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 172 Nm (126.86 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 4000 rpm. The mild hybrid system incorporates a 48-volt electric motor and a small battery pack (0.46 kWh) to provide assistance during acceleration and enable start-stop functionality. The transmission is a 6-speed Intelligent Manual Transmission (iMT), which is essentially a manual gearbox with an electronic clutch actuator, offering some of the convenience of an automatic without the full complexity.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 T-GDi with the iMT transmission delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.9 seconds. While not particularly sporty, the turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, making it suitable for merging onto highways and overtaking. Compared to higher-output Kona variants, such as those with the 1.6 T-GDi engine, this version feels less responsive. The iMT transmission, while improving fuel efficiency, can feel slightly less refined than a traditional automatic. The gear ratios are tuned for economy, meaning the engine may need to be revved higher to maintain speed on inclines.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.0 T-GDi Mild Hybrid typically came equipped with a reasonable 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 upgraded materials available on higher trim levels. Optional extras could include a sunroof, heated seats, a premium sound system, and navigation. The specific trim levels and available options varied depending on the market.
Chassis & Braking
The Kona 1.0 T-GDi utilizes a front-wheel-drive configuration. The front suspension consists of an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not as sporty as more sophisticated suspension systems found on higher-spec Kona models. The braking system features ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The relatively light weight of the 1.0 T-GDi variant contributes to its manageable braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.0 T-GDi Mild Hybrid Kona was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and affordability. It offered a compelling value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and economical subcompact SUV. Compared to other trims in the Kona lineup, such as the 1.6 T-GDi, it sacrificed some performance for improved fuel economy. Its fuel consumption of 5.7-6.1 l/100 km (41.3 – 38.6 US mpg) was a key selling point. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with the Smartstream engine proving to be relatively robust. However, some owners have reported minor issues with the iMT transmission.
Legacy
The Hyundai Kona 1.0 T-GDi Mild Hybrid has established itself as a popular choice in the used car market, particularly for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable SUV. The Smartstream engine and mild hybrid system have proven to be reasonably reliable, and parts availability is generally good. While not a performance-oriented variant, it offers a practical and economical solution for everyday transportation. Its success contributed to the overall popularity of the Kona model and helped Hyundai establish itself as a major player in the subcompact SUV segment.
