When I found out I was going to get a 2021 Hyundai Kona for review, I was actually pretty excited. It’s definitely one of those newer models with a bit of hype built up around it, so I wanted to see what the fuss is about. I pictured a Kona in Surf Blue or Pulse Red and I was honestly a little surprised that the one that got dropped off was a shiny dark gray color ––Thunder Gray to be exact.

The color of a vehicle obviously has no bearing on its quality or performance. But I did expect to have the chance to sample one of the more exciting 2021 Hyundai Kona colors. The 2020 Hyundai Kona model sported cool colors too. Sunset Orange and Lime Twist joined the color lineup. Now, with the 2022 model looming on the horizon we are getting curious about what colors could join the list of options for 2022.

The 2021 Hyundai Kona in Thunder Gray

Just because the color of the 2021 Hyundai Kona tester I drove wasn’t flashy doesn’t mean it didn’t look good. Thunder gray looks great on the Kona. With the black leather upholstery added by the Limited trim level, the entire package had a pleasing aesthetic. Still, the Hyundai Kona does come in cooler colors than gray. The 2022 Kona recently debuted with a new N Line trim, but the color lineup has yet to be fully seen.

If you prefer something a little more under the radar, however, Thunder Gray, Sonic Silver, and Ultra Black are all more understated colors. There is also a Chalk White option. The only thing with the white is that it still stands out with a noticeable contrast to the black cladding that comes standard on the exterior of every Hyundai Kona. So it’s not quite as tame of a Hyundai Kona color choice as gray, silver, or black.

How reliable is the Hyundai Kona?

The 2020 Hyundai Kona earned a 5 out of 5 for predicted reliability from Consumer Reports. The 2021 model year also earned a 5 out of 5. Additionally, J.D. Power gave both model years of the Hyundai Kona subcompact SUV a score of “great” for reliability and quality. Both the 2021 and 2020 Hyundai Kona both earned an 81 out of 100 in the category.

So, generally speaking, the 2021 Hyundai Kona is a reliable subcompact SUV. The 2020 Hyundai Kona is also a reliable car. Plus, it comes with Hyundai’s epic warranty. This is a great example of how well this spritely little Hyundai blends style, reliability, and a little bit of fun all into one tidy package. We expect the 2022 Kona model to expect this trend.

Is it worth buying?

If you don’t need a subcompact SUV to increase cargo or rear seat room, the Kona is a great option to check out. It ticks more boxes on the style end of things. Plus, its punchy powertrain makes it pretty fun to drive. The AWD tester I drove for a week was particularly fun to drive. I’d highly recommend adding the AWD option to your 2021 Hyundai Kona.

According to Hyundai USA, the 2021 Kona starts at $20,500. AWD can be added even to the entry-level Kona SE for $1,400. That means this spunky little AWD turbocharged subcompact SUV can be had for as low as $21,900. Even the highest Ultimate 2021 Kona starts at $28,500. So even will all the bells and whistles this little Hyundai is a great value. Even U.S. News and World Report named it the No. 1 subcompact SUV in 2021.

That said, its back seat and cargo are a bit on the tight side. So if you are stepping up from a sedan for more space you may want to check out others like the Honda HR-V or the Jeep Renegade. Still, the 2021 Hyundai Kona has a lot of bang for your buck and doesn’t fall behind too much in terms of interior space. And, even if you don’t want the Pulse Red or Surf Blue Hyundai Kona colors, this subcompact SUV still looks pretty great in gray.