Hyundai Kona SX2
Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice
120–199 PS
1.6L T-GDI (Smartstream) Benzin
Turbo crossover with some bite
Fun to Drive!135–650 PS
E-GMP Permanentmagnet-Motor Elektro
7 weaknesses
Stay Away!Generations
Engine Overview
The Hyundai Kona SX2 is available with 3 engine variants — from 105 to 650 hp. 2 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.
The Hyundai 1.6L T-GDI (Smartstream) (Benziner, 120–199 PS) comes with 3 different engines: G4FT-ICE (2023–2026, Be Careful) und G4FT-ICE (2023–2026, Be Careful) und G4FT-ICE (2023–2026, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 1.6L T-GDI (Smartstream)!
The Hyundai 1.6L T-GDI Hybrid (Smartstream) (Benziner Hybrid, 141 PS) has the G4FT (1.6L T-GDI Hybrid (Smartstream)) — rated: "Be Careful", 6 known weaknesses.
The Hyundai Kona Elektro (Elektro, 135–218 PS) comes with 2 different engines: EM17 (2023–2026, Stay Away!) und EM17 (2023–2026, Stay Away!). Pay attention to the model year for the Kona Elektro!
Vehicle Weaknesses
| Weakness | Cost | |
|---|---|---|
| Recall: DCT software causes strong deceleration A software fault in the dual-clutch gearbox transmission control unit can trigger unexpected strong vehicle deceleration. KBA recall affects approx. 10,575 vehicles worldwide, recall code 41D037. Symptoms: Vehicle decelerates abruptly without brake input; shift jolt on gear change; gearbox warning light | Low | |
| Mild hybrid: power loss after motorway driving The mild hybrid variant (48V) shows reduced throttle response after extended motorway driving. No fault codes stored. Cause unclear, possibly thermal throttling of the electric motor. Symptoms: Engine responds slowly to accelerator after long motorway drive; acceleration noticeably reduced; system recovers after cooling | Low | |
| 8-speed automatic — judder and shifting problems The 8-speed automatic gearbox on the Kona SX2 shows irregular shifting, judder at low revs and metal debris in gearbox oil. Parts lead times at dealers are long as replacements are hard to source. Symptoms: Judder when shifting, gear change delayed, metallic smell in gearbox oil from 30,000 km | High |
Top Reported Issues
Alternatives
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Known Problems and Issues
A total of 27 weaknesses have been documented for the Hyundai Kona SX2 (2023–2026) — 19 engine-related and 8 vehicle-related. One problem engine: EM17 (E-GMP Permanentmagnet-Motor). Typical issues affect Gearbox, Electronics, Rust.
Kona (G4FT-ICE, 2023–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain — replacement recommended before 130,000 km, GDI direct injection carbons intake valves, CVVD variable valve duration system — early field experience shows actuator problems. Power: 120 PS.
Kona (G4FT-ICE, 2023–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain — replacement recommended before 130,000 km, GDI direct injection carbons intake valves, CVVD variable valve duration system — early field experience shows actuator problems. Power: 199 PS.
Kona (G4FT-ICE, 2023–2026) — Be Careful: Timing chain — replacement recommended before 130,000 km, GDI direct injection carbons intake valves, CVVD variable valve duration system — early field experience shows actuator problems. Power: 169–177 PS.
Kona (G4FT, 2023–2026) — Be Careful: Fuel contamination of engine oil, Timing chain stretch — Tucson/Kona Hybrid, Valve carbon buildup under sport use. Power: 105 PS.
Kona (EM17, 2023–2026) — Stay Away!: Recall: ICCU control unit failure (charging loss), ICCU failure (Integrated Charging Control Unit), Driveshaft breakage (recall). Power: 135 PS.
Kona (EM17, 2023–2026) — Stay Away!: Recall: ICCU control unit failure (charging loss), ICCU failure (Integrated Charging Control Unit), Driveshaft breakage (recall). Power: 218 PS.
What to watch out for with the Hyundai Kona? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee