2018 Hyundai Kona Report
Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.
Overall Score
Key Takeaways
- The engine is the primary area of concern, with numerous reports of failures and fires.
- Electrical system and powertrain issues are also frequently cited.
- Despite 97 complaints, there are no open recalls, placing the onus on the buyer for thorough inspection.
- Fuel economy is respectable, rated at 27 MPG combined.
2018 Hyundai Kona
The 2018 Hyundai Kona is a compact SUV that offers a stylish design and reasonable fuel efficiency. However, potential used car buyers should be aware of significant reliability concerns, particularly with the engine. With 97 complaints logged with NHTSA, the most frequent issues revolve around the ENGINE, followed by ELECTRICAL SYSTEM and POWER TRAIN problems. Despite a lack of recalls, these complaint volumes suggest a higher-than-average risk for critical component failures. Safety ratings are not available from NHTSA for this model year.
Critical Failure Risk
The most frequent complaint category involves engine issues, including reports of fires and complete failures. These can occur at various mileages, suggesting potential manufacturing defects or durability concerns.
Early detection can help you avoid a $3,000-$7,000 repair.
Safety & Bulletins
Owner Complaints
Performance & Efficiency
Reliability
Practicality
Who This Car Is For
Best for
Buyers prioritizing distinctive styling and good fuel economy over long-term mechanical certainty.
+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report
Avoid if
Buyers seeking a completely trouble-free ownership experience.
+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report
2018 Hyundai Kona Reliability Analysis
Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2018 Hyundai Kona.
Vehicle Specs
- Fuel Type
- Regular
- Seating Capacity
- 5
- Transmission
- Automatic
- Drivetrain
- FWD/Front-Wheel Drive
- EPA Combined MPG
- 27
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See the full 2018 Hyundai Kona buyer report before you decide
Most Common Issues
1. ENGINE
Most reportedUsage: 31 reports
2. Electrical System
Usage: 8 reports
First Service Interval
- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes
Est. shop cost: $100 - $150
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FAQ
Is the 2018 Hyundai Kona reliable?
The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2018 Hyundai Kona is 8.8/10. Reliability score is 8.8/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 97.
How practical is the 2018 Hyundai Kona for daily use?
Practicality score is 5.5/10. EPA combined economy is 27 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed.
What is the overall score for the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2018 Hyundai Kona is 6.9/10. Overall score is 6.9/10 (Good). Confidence 55%. Maintenance 8.2/10. Practicality 5.5/10.
What does it cost to own and maintain a 2018 Hyundai Kona?
Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation - Inspect Brakes at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $400 - $700. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 75,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $3,000 • Max: $7,000+).
What is the MSRP range for the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
Base MSRP is $19,500.
What engine is in the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
Engine specs list 4 • 1.6.
What transmission does the 2018 Hyundai Kona use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Kona, transmission is Automatic. The paired drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive.
What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
EPA combined estimate is 27 MPG.
What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
10 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.
How many people fit in a 2018 Hyundai Kona?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Kona, seating capacity is 5.
What drivetrain does the 2018 Hyundai Kona use?
According to CarFocal's specs for the 2018 Hyundai Kona, drivetrain is FWD/Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Automatic.
What are the most common engine problems on the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
Top complaint category: engine (31 reports, 32% of complaints).
Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2018 Hyundai Kona?
Alternatives listed in this guide: 2018 Honda HR-V and 2018 Toyota C-HR.