For those looking for an SUV experience, but don’t necessarily need a huge hauler, a subcompact crossover is a great option. The Hyundai Kona is one of the more affordable ones to get, especially if you’re looking for an AWD.

U.S. News has a list of the most affordable new SUVs on the market for 2021. Each one comes in at under $25,000, and the Kona found its way onto that list. However, there are a couple of things about it that may be a dealbreaker for you. 

What kind of driver wouldn’t like the Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona made the U.S. News list of the Best New SUVs under $25,000 in 2021. In fact, it made the No. 1 spot. But all may not be as it seems. The Kona has two issues that could turn many consumers off when looking for a great subcompact vehicle. 

The biggest drawbacks with this SUV are the leg and headroom for the second row and trunk space. We often see cramped areas when dealing with a third row, but the Kona has very little room for adults in the second-row seats. Small children might handle it just fine, though.

The trunk capacity comes up a little short as well. Behind the second-row seats, you have 19.2 cubic feet of space, which is about average for its class. However, when you fold down the rear seats, you only get approximately 45.8 cubic feet of space. That’s actually below average when you compare it to its rivals. 

What makes it the best SUV on the U.S. News list?

Although the second-row seating falls short of expectations, the Hyundai Kona still has plenty to offer for those wanting a subcompact SUV. One reason it made it to the No. 1 spot is its affordability. Hyundai’s Kona has an MSRP of $20,400, which is pretty good for a brand-new vehicle. Actually, it comes in far lower than the No. 2 Sportage, which costs around $24,000.

Its interior is another area that it excels in. The front seats are very comfortable and supportive for short and long trips. This SUV handles very well, and it rides smoothly down the road on various road surfaces. You get a 7-inch touchscreen that comes with smartphone connectivity. Upper trim levels get you a sunroof, Premium Infinity stereo system, wireless device charging, and heated front seats. 

The base model has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that they paired with a six-speed transmission. If you want something with just a bit more power, then you can choose a 1.6-liter turbocharged motor that generates 175 hp. Paired with it is a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. 

What about the Hyundai Kona’s reputation

According to U.S. News, its good points don’t stop with its price and interior. What it offers in the way of reputation is even better. First of all, the Kona has a history of excellent crash test ratings. 

NHTSA and the IIHS both gave it the highest ratings they have. The only issue with the IIHS scoring was the headlight performance on a few of its trims. 

Then there’s the predicted reliability rating. The Kona didn’t disappoint here either. It has a score of 3.5 out of 5.0, which is above average for its class. 

Hyundai backs it all up with a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty to ensure you are well-covered for a long time. 

With a score of 8.3 out of 10 from U.S. News, you’re guaranteed to get an affordable subcompact SUV that offers you plenty of quality. However, if you plan to haul adults in the second-row seats, you might want to consider another alternative.