Hyundai Kona

USCar Trader import service

Import this model from the USA or Canada

Choose a specific vehicle. Where data is available, its detail page shows the import cost calculation. We assess any possible duty benefit with you before purchase.

Important: A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact us before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support through the process. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

CarHub · Hyundai

Hyundai Kona

The first-generation Kona launched for 2018 on Hyundai's B-SUV platform, offered with petrol engines and, later, a distinct all-electric Kona EV.

Body style
Typical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): Subcompact crossover SUV, 5 doors
Seating
Typical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 5
Engine
Typical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 1.6 L turbo I4 (base 2.0 L NA)
Power
Typical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 175 hp (2.0 approx. 147 hp)
Hyundai Kona

Model profile

Model history and generations

Classifying the specific model line

To classify the Hyundai Kona, the model line, model year, body variant and equipment of the specific listing are considered together; differences between US and Canadian versions are documented from the vehicle records.

Powertrain and equipment

Engines, drivetrain and trims

Engines and drivetrain

US petrol Konas offered a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four (around 147 hp) with a CVT/automatic, and a stronger 1.6-litre turbocharged four (around 175–195 hp) with a seven-speed dual-clutch, the latter fitted to the sporty N Line and higher trims.

Which trim makes sense

The Kona is a five-door subcompact/compact crossover only. US trims across the generations included SE, SEL, N Line and the top Limited, with N Line adding sport styling and the turbo engine, and Limited bringing leather, a sunroof, upgraded audio and full driver assistance.

Vehicle selection

North American market and suitability

Supply on the US market

The Kona has been a strong US seller since 2018, so used supply is deep and varied across trims and drivetrains.

Who benefits from importing

The Kona suits buyers who want a compact, efficient and stylish crossover that is easy to park yet well equipped.

Vehicle data

Technical data by generation and specification

Engine and drivetrain

Body styleTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): Subcompact crossover SUV, 5 doors
SeatingTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 5
EngineTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 1.6 L turbo I4 (base 2.0 L NA)
PowerTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 175 hp (2.0 approx. 147 hp)
TorqueTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 265 Nm
TransmissionTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 7-speed dual-clutch (base 6-speed auto/CVT)
DrivetrainTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): AWD (FWD available)
FuelTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): Regular gasoline (Kona EV separate)
LengthTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 4180 mm (1st gen)
WidthTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 1800 mm
HeightTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 1550 mm
WheelbaseTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 2600 mm
Kerb weightTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 1350–1500 kg
Cargo volumeTypical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): approx. 361 L (1st gen, seats up)
Model years (US)Typical figure (1st gen 1.6T AWD): 2018–present (2 generations)

Values are reproduced verbatim from the existing article table. The documents for the specific vehicle govern.

Pre-purchase review

Model-specific inspection points

Known weak points and maintenance

The Kona is generally dependable, with reasonable Hyundai Kona reliability, but there are specific points to check. The 1.6T dual-clutch can shudder or hesitate at low speed and benefits from a check of clutch behaviour and any updates.

Germany and Europe

Differences, adaptation and registration

US and EU spec compared

US-market headlights use the FMVSS/SAE beam pattern, which differs from the ECE pattern required in the EU, so they may need adjustment or replacement with ECE-compliant units for registration.

USCar Trader services

Inspection, purchase processing and escrow

As a buyer based in Germany, you do not have to inspect the vehicle yourself in the United States or Canada. Within the agreed scope, USCar Trader can coordinate document review, a separately commissioned on-site inspection and purchase processing.

  • Vehicle profile and history: The profile can show the VIN, US title status and available history records. No data source guarantees that every earlier event was reported.
  • Optional CARFAX report: Additional reported maintenance or service entries can be included. The report is not a complete service book or proof of every interval.
  • On-site inspection / USCT AutoCheck: USCar Trader can arrange a separately booked vehicle inspection. Agreed visible and accessible areas are documented. Road or functional tests require suitable access and seller approval; the visual review is not a lift inspection or workshop diagnosis.
  • Purchase processing and escrow: After approval, USCar Trader can coordinate seller contact, negotiation, contract and the escrow and import service. Fees, payment route and responsibilities are recorded in advance.
  • Recalls: Open safety recalls can be checked by VIN through the NHTSA recall search; they do not describe overall condition.

Covered inspection points are agreed in advance. An on-site inspection records condition at the appointment and is not a guarantee.

Next step: Before commissioning, USCar Trader and the customer agree which document, history, inspection and transaction checks suit the vehicle and are included in the service. This records what was actually checked.

Import process

Import, customs, costs and delivery

Importing a used Hyundai Kona from the USA

The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover that sells in both Europe and the US, but the North American versions often differ in engines, trims and equipment, which is what makes importing a used US example worthwhile for buyers who want a specific configuration or better value.

The import process in detail

The assessment depends on the specific vehicle and the circumstances of the transaction. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review any possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are considered separately.

Questions and answers

Common questions about importing this model

Does this vehicle automatically qualify for a 0% import-duty rate?

No, not automatically. A 0% EU import-duty rate may be available for a vehicle covered by Regulation (EU) 2026/1455 that has US origin and is imported directly into the EU. CETA may apply to a vehicle with preferential Canadian origin. Whether the requirements are met is assessed for the individual case. Please contact USCar Trader before purchase; we review the possible duty benefit and provide non-binding support. Import VAT and other costs are assessed separately.

How is import VAT treated when importing a Hyundai Kona?

Import VAT and other taxes or costs are assessed separately under the applicable rules and the circumstances of the individual case. A blanket answer for every vehicle would not be reliable.

Which version should I import?

The N Line or Limited turbo AWD offers the best equipment and performance; the 2.0 is the economical entry point.

Are there recall concerns?

Some GDI engines had recall campaigns; always confirm all recall work was completed before purchase.

Will a US Kona pass TÜV?

Yes, after lighting adjustments and a rear fog lamp are fitted and the Einzelabnahme is passed.

Is the Kona EV the same as the petrol import?

No, the Kona EV is a separate electric model with different documentation; this page covers the petrol Kona.

How is it shipped?

By container or RoRo ocean freight to a German port, followed by customs clearance.

Are parts available in Germany?

Yes, the Kona is sold in Europe too, so most service parts are readily available.

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