Young millennials are frequently on the go, and they need a vehicle that can keep up with their active lifestyles. This age group is often attracted to fuel-efficient cars that offer a fun driving experience. Cutting-edge technologies, smart safety systems, and an affordable price tag are a plus, too. No model fits that mold better than the 2021 Hyundai Kona, which has a starting MSRP of $20,400.

This subcompact SUV is in its fourth model year, and it’s quickly becoming a fan favorite. If you’re a young professional looking for the perfect commuter vehicle or a couple who likes to go on road trips, then the Kona is worth your attention.

Let’s take a deeper dive into why the 2021 Hyundai Kona is a perfect contender for a generation that needs versatility in their daily lives. 

Reason #1: Critics love the Kona

Millennials always do their research before making big purchases. These discerning buyers will find that reputable outlets like the U.S. News & World Report and Consumer Reports have great praise for the Hyundai Kona.

U.S News named the 2021 Hyundai Kona its top subcompact SUV, noting its upscale cabin and comfortability as particular positives. Meanwhile, Consumer Reports has given the Kona top scores in key categories, such as predicted reliability and owner satisfaction, since its debut in the 2018 model year.

How does this subcompact SUV match up to its competitors? The quickest comparison people make to Hyundai is usually Kia. When pitting the Kona against the Soul, you’ll find that one is a contender and one is a pretender. 

The Kia Soul uses gimmicky style to lure in youthful drivers looking to make a statement. However, it doesn’t provide much substance. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Kona has a sleek design that doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb. Plus, the 2021 Hyundai Kona has an available all-wheel-drive system, while the 2021 Kia Soul only comes with front-wheel drive.

Reason #2: The 2021 Hyundai Kona delivers fuel-efficient performance

Small SUVs typically produce large gas mileage numbers, and the 2021 Hyundai Kona is no exception. Additionally, the Kona sets itself apart from its rivals by offering an impressive assortment of powertrain options.

The 2021 Kona comes standard with a 147-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, drivers can opt for a sportier 175-hp 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which comes on the Limited and Ultimate trim levels. 

Its standard engine and available turbocharged engine each get an EPA-estimated 30 MPG city/highway combined. Both engine’s numbers dip to an EPA-estimated 27 MPG city/highway combined when equipped with all-wheel drive. In comparison, the Toyota C-HR’s only engine offers an EPA-estimated 29 MPG city/highway combined.

Eco-conscious shoppers will be excited to learn more about the affordable Kona EV. This fully-electric model has an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles on a full charge, and its electric motor has an output of 201 hp.

Reason #3: Next-Generation Innovation

The millennial generation takes driving safety seriously, and so does the 2021 Hyundai Kona. It comes standard with a rearview camera, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and a driver drowsiness monitor. Plus, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and other premium safety systems are also available.

This subcompact SUV knows how to have fun, too. The 2021 Hyundai Kona is packed with cool tech features young drivers will love. Its intuitive infotainment system has a seven-inch screen, which can be upgraded to eight inches on higher trims. Meanwhile, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, as do a pair of USB ports. Other premium upgrades include an eight-speaker sound system, a navigation system, wireless device charging, and remote keyless entry.

Plenty of other vehicles have some of the same features or specs that millennial drivers want. However, few competitors embody the complete package of these traits like the 2021 Hyundai Kona.