Last updated: 2026-03-27
Hyundai Kona Reliability by Year
The Hyundai Kona averages 65/100 across 8 model years, rated good.
Hyundai Kona Reliability Overview
The Hyundai Kona, spanning model years 2018 to 2026, maintains an average reliability score of 65 out of 100, indicating a good but not exceptional reliability profile. Data shows that common issues include engine performance, electrical system malfunctions, and power train concerns, with notable complaint rates peaking in earlier years and declining over time. Repair costs are average with a reliability rating of 2.5 out of 5, suggesting potential buyers should consider ongoing maintenance and repair needs when evaluating this vehicle.
Current generation: 2nd gen (2024–2023).
Best & Worst Hyundai Kona Years
Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.
Best Hyundai Kona Years to Buy
Based on reliability index scoreThe best Hyundai Kona year is 2025 with a reliability score of 74/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2018 (69/100) and 2024 (68/100).
Hyundai Kona Years to Avoid
The worst Hyundai Kona year is 2019 with a score of 55/100, primarily due to engine (92) issues.
Hyundai Kona Reliability Score Trend
Hyundai Kona reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 68/100 compared to 61/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 55/100 | Mixed |
| 2020 | 57/100 | Mixed |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 64/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 68/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 74/100 | Good |
Year-by-Year Reliability
2026 Hyundai Kona
2 recalls · 4 complaints
The 2026 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 4 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Hyundai Kona. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (1), Vehicle Speed Control (1), Fuel System, Gasoline (1).
2025 Hyundai Kona
0 recalls · 21 complaints
The 2025 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 21 owner complaints on file for the 2025 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 1 crash-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (7), Power Train (3), Vehicle Speed Control (2).
2024 Hyundai Kona
3 recalls · 50 complaints
The 2024 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 3 recalls and 50 owner complaints on file for the 2024 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (26), Power Train (5), Steering (4).
2023 Hyundai Kona
2 recalls · 68 complaints
The 2023 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 68 owner complaints on file for the 2023 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 4 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (23), Unknown Or Other (10), Power Train (10).
2022 Hyundai Kona
2 recalls · 115 complaints
The 2022 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 2 recalls and 115 owner complaints on file for the 2022 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 3 crash-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Electrical System (33), Engine (19), Unknown Or Other (18).
2021 Hyundai Kona
1 recalls · 102 complaints
The 2021 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 1 recall and 102 owner complaints on file for the 2021 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 2 crash-related complaints and 3 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (51), Unknown Or Other (15), Power Train (13).
2020 Hyundai Kona
2 recalls · 140 complaints
The 2020 Hyundai Kona has mixed reliability. There are 2 recalls and 140 owner complaints on file for the 2020 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 7 crash-related complaints and 1 fire-related complaint. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (76), Power Train (16), Unknown Or Other (12).
2019 Hyundai Kona
4 recalls · 224 complaints
The 2019 Hyundai Kona has mixed reliability. There are 4 recalls and 224 owner complaints on file for the 2019 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 13 crash-related complaints and 6 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Engine (92), Electrical System (55), Power Train (19).
2018 Hyundai Kona
0 recalls · 66 complaints
The 2018 Hyundai Kona has good reliability. There are 0 recalls and 66 owner complaints on file for the 2018 Hyundai Kona. Severity signals include 9 crash-related complaints and 10 fire-related complaints. The most commonly reported problem areas are: Unknown Or Other (19), Engine (18), Power Train (8).
Found Your Hyundai Kona? Check Its History
Every Hyundai Kona has a different past. Before you buy, a VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, and open recalls.
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Hyundai Kona Repair Costs
Reliability Rating
2.5/5
Hyundai Kona Years to Avoid
See which model years have the most problems
Most Reliable Hyundai Models
Compare all Hyundai models by reliability
Compare Hyundai Kona With Similar SUVs
The Hyundai Kona competes with other compact suvs such as Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Chevrolet Trax.
Mazda CX-30 reliability
7 years tracked · 218 complaints
Toyota Corolla Cross reliability
5 years tracked · 257 complaints
Chevrolet Trax reliability
8 years tracked · 509 complaints
KIA Sportage reliability
9 years tracked · 810 complaints
Honda HR-V reliability
9 years tracked · 1309 complaints
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the Hyundai Kona reliable?
- The Hyundai Kona has good reliability with an average score of 65/100. Some model years are stronger than others — check individual years before buying.
- What is the best year for the Hyundai Kona?
- The best year for the Hyundai Kona is 2025 with a reliability score of 74/100, rated good. It has 0 recalls and 21 owner complaints on record. See full 2025 Hyundai Kona analysis →
- What are the Hyundai Kona years to avoid?
- The Hyundai Kona years to avoid include 2019 (55/100). These model years score significantly below the model average due to higher recall and complaint volumes. See the full years-to-avoid analysis for details. See full years-to-avoid analysis →
- How much does it cost to maintain a Hyundai Kona?
- Annual maintenance cost estimates are not available for the Hyundai Kona. Based on its reliability score and complaint patterns, check individual year pages for repair cost details when available.
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
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