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2021 Hyundai Kona Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

2021 Hyundai Kona Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: SE vs SEL vs SEL Plus, Limited & Ultimate
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2021 Hyundai Kona Trim Level Should you Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

With its distinctive design, bold styling and practical cabin space, the Hyundai Kona has established itself as a popular small SUV. For 2021 there are still several vibrant colors to choose from - including Pulse Red and Surf Blue – along with an array of unique features like it's big front grille that ensures you never go unnoticed on the road! Inside offers 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats (upgradable to 45.8 cubes!), plenty of legroom for passengers up-front (+41 inches!) or in back(+34 inches!). Finally, five trims ranging in price from budget friendly SE all the way up to Ultimate complete this affordable yet feature rich package.

Compare the Kona SE vs SEL Trims. What is the difference?

The Kona and Tuscon both feature an intense 2-liter inline, four-cylinder engine capable of generating a smooth 147 horsepower and 132 pound feet of torque. Drivers can take advantage of the standard front wheel drive or opt for Hyundai's all wheel drive option - no other competitors have this in their entry level models! To top it off, these cars come with SHIFTRONIC transmission: providing you that extra bit of control to spice up your driving experience.

The SE rides on 16-inch alloy wheels, and the SEL has 17-inch alloy wheels. Some other differences are that the SEL has rear privacy glass, heated exterior mirrors that can come in handy in colder weather, and turn signal indicators built into the side mirrors. The SEL also has a power tilt-and-slide sunroof that makes the vehicle feel a bit more upscale, and it's a great element to have when the weather is nice. Both trims have automatic projector headlights and LED daytime running lights. The SEL is the only one of these two trims to have side rails on the roof.

With the SEL and SE of this cabin, a few small but noticeable differences can make all the difference in comfort. Enjoy leather-wrapped amenities like steering wheel and shift knob as well as heated front seats to stay warm during cold months! The external temperature display is also convenient for checking weather before stepping out. You'll find both trims equipped with a seven-inch color touchscreen offering Android Auto or Apple Carplay plus parking guidance when reversing; only available on SEL is HD Radio & Satellite Radio access so you never miss your favorite station again! Last but not least convenience wise, Proximity Key entry with push button start offers effortless opening while Remote keyless entry has alarm/panic mode options too.

The Kona does well in terms of safety. The SE, and all other trims, has traction control, anti-lock brakes, and a vehicle stability management system. It also has technologies that help the vehicle stay in the proper lane, make sure the driver is paying attention to the road, and reduce the likelihood of forward collisions by alerting drivers to potential issues and hitting the brakes if necessary. The SEL differentiates itself from the SE by having blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic warning.

Compare the Kona SEL vs SEL Plus. What is the difference?

Whether you opt for the SEL or take it up a notch with the Plus, both vehicles boast an impressive safety package that includes headlamps and durable side mirrors. On top of this, those going all out on the SEL Plus model get some significant extras like a power driver's seat to tailor your perfect driving position plus larger multi-information display so there'll never be any doubt about how far you have left in your journey. Convenience is also priority as wireless charging takes away fiddling around when using mobile devices while premium Infinity components fuel sweet music through 8 speakers including two tweeters and even its own subwoofer.

At the SEL Plus level, the Kona starts to have the ability to connect with Blue Link. With Blue Link, the vehicle can be started remotely via a mobile app, and drivers can even remotely set the cabin temperature, lock or unlock their doors, and check how much gas is in the tank. Blue Link comes with some other cool features as well, such as access to emergency roadside assistance and vehicle location pinpointing.

Compare the Kona SEL Plus vs Limited. What is the difference?

The jump from the SEL Plus to the Limited is significant because it's accompanied by a change in engine. Remember that the lower trims of the Kona are powered by 2.0-liter engines with 147 horsepower. The Limited is the level at which the Kona is upgraded to have a turbocharged, 1.6-liter engine. This engine can output a much more desirable 175 horsepower, and it comes with 195 pound-feet of torque. For some drivers, this is reason enough to get the Limited.

Fuel efficiency isn't really compromised at all when moving to the turbocharged engine. The SEL Plus gets an estimated 27/33 (city/highway) miles per gallon, while the Limited can achieve an estimated 28/32 miles per gallon. For all-wheel-drive models, the mileage for the lower trims is 26/30 miles per gallon, and it's 26/29 miles per gallon on the Limited.

Hyundai has paired the Limited's turbocharged engine with a seven-speed EcoShift dual clutch transmission. This type of transmission is usually associated with higher performing vehicles, as it can allow for smooth shifting and optimal power delivery. When looking at the wheels of the Kona, one may notice that the Limited has 18-inch wheels instead of 17-inch wheels like the SEL Plus has.

Unlike the SEL Plus, the Limited has LED headlights and LED taillights. The power sunroof, which is only an option on the SEL Plus, becomes standard on the Limited.

There are a few more differences inside the cabin. Leather seats are standard not he Limited, as is automatic temperature control. Plus, the rearview mirror on the Limited comes with HomeLink technology. This technology allows the button on the mirror to connect with a garage door or security system in one's home.

Compare the Kona Limited vs Ultimate. What is the difference?

When examining the components under the hood, the Ultimate offers the same package that the Limited does. They both have turbocharged engines, and many people will be attracted to their more spirited and responsive handling.

The Ultimate trim of the vehicle is packed with safety components to give drivers a greater sense of security. From parking distance sensors that alert when too close objects are detected, to pedestrian detection systems and automatic high beam assist - you can feel confident in your travels whatever destination lies ahead! High Beam Assist helps keep vision clear on dark roads; automatically switching from low beams as soon it senses other cars up ahead. It's never been easier for drivers to stay safe even out on the darkest highways late at night.

When looking at the technology features of the Ultimate, a few things are immediately noticeable. While the other trims have seven-inch touchscreens, the Ultimate comes with an eight-inch touchscreen. Its infotainment system includes integrated navigation, and it also has a heads-up display that shows key vehicle information right on the windshield.

Final Thoughts

With the Kona, Hyundai has created a small SUV or crossover that offers convenience and comfort for all types of drivers. Consumers have five trims to choose from, ranging in price and power - but two stand out among them: Limited & Ultimate. The former provides excellent value with included LED lighting, sunroof and leather seating; while its more expensive sibling boasts an even stronger engine plus built-in navigation. Whether you're commuting around town or embarking on a family adventure – the Kona Limited is surely up to task.

Used 2021 Hyundai Kona:
Previous Hyundai Kona Trim Configurations:

Compare the 2020 Hyundai Kona Trim Levels