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2022 Hyundai Kona Report

Known issues, recalls, running costs, and what to check before you buy.

Updated May 30, 2026·Ryan Davis
2022 Hyundai Kona Report

Overall Score

7.6/ 10
Our Verdict
Proceed with caution

Key Takeaways

  • The engine is the most frequently cited issue, with reports of stalling and shutdown, sometimes at very low mileage.
  • Powertrain and electrical system failures are also common, indicating potential weaknesses in these critical areas.
  • Advanced driver-assistance systems, specifically forward collision avoidance and automatic emergency braking, have also drawn complaints.
  • Despite a high overall safety rating, the prevalence of critical component failures suggests a higher-than-average risk for unexpected repairs.
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OverviewWho This Car Is ForReliability & ProblemsVehicle SpecsUnlock Full ReportFAQ
Overview

2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offers a compact SUV package with decent fuel economy and strong safety scores. However, used car shoppers should be aware of a notable number of owner complaints, particularly concerning the powertrain and electrical systems. While it boasts a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, the underlying reliability data suggests a cautious approach is warranted.

Critical Failure Risk

Owners report sudden engine shutdowns or significant power loss while driving. This is a critical safety concern and often occurs at low mileages, suggesting potential manufacturing defects.

Early detection can help you avoid a $1,500-$4,000 repair.

Open Maintenance Analysis →

Safety & Bulletins

Open Recalls0
Service Bulletins0
Full Recall History →

Owner Complaints

129
Engine27
Detailed Issue Breakdown →

Performance & Efficiency

Fuel Efficiency
Combined
23
MPG
City
20
MPG
Highway
27
MPG
Full Vehicle Specifications ↓

Reliability

8.0/ 10

Practicality

5.9/ 10

The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption.

Buyer Fit

Who This Car Is For

Best for

Budget-conscious shoppers prioritizing safety ratings and a compact SUV form factor.

+2 more buyer-fit notes in the full report

Avoid if

Those seeking a vehicle with a proven track record of long-term, trouble-free ownership.

+2 more buyer-fit warnings in the full report

2022 Hyundai Kona Reliability Analysis

Explore comprehensive reliability data including official safety recalls, consumer complaints, and common mechanical failures for the 2022 Hyundai Kona.

  • Recall TimelineOfficial safety notices
  • Owner ComplaintsReal driver reports
  • Failure AnalysisKnown part defects
Specs

Vehicle Specs

Fuel Type
Premium
Seating Capacity
5
Transmission
Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
Drivetrain
Front-Wheel Drive
Body Style
Suv
EPA Combined MPG
23

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Unlock the complete checklist, maintenance outlook, and buyer verdict in one place.

Most Common Issues

1. ENGINE

Most reported

Usage: 27 reports

2. Electrical System

Usage: 18 reports

See all common issues in the maintenance guide

First Service Interval

- Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System

Est. shop cost: $100 - $180

7,500 mi

Unlock the full maintenance guide for every scheduled service interval and cost forecast.

Full pre-purchase inspection checklist
Complete maintenance schedule (4 service intervals)
Repair forecasts with mileage and cost context
Full buyer-fit guidance and who should avoid it
Full specs and trim-level context
Full safety recall details
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FAQ

FAQ

Is the 2022 Hyundai Kona reliable?▾

The CarFocal Reliability Score for the 2022 Hyundai Kona is 8.0/10. Reliability score is 8.0/10. NHTSA recalls: 0. Owner complaints: 129.

How practical is the 2022 Hyundai Kona for daily use?▾

Practicality score is 5.9/10. The score is mainly limited by high fuel consumption. EPA combined economy is 23 MPG. Seating capacity is 5. 4 passenger doors are listed. Boot capacity is 544 litres.

What is the overall score for the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

The CarFocal Overall Score for the 2022 Hyundai Kona is 7.6/10. Overall score is 7.6/10 (Good). Confidence 85%. Maintenance 8.1/10. Practicality 5.9/10.

What does it cost to own and maintain a 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

Based on Carfocal's data, First listed service: - Oil Change (5W-30 Synthetic) (Parts: 5W-30 Synthetic Oil, Oil Filter) - Tire Rotation and Inspection - Inspect Brake System - Inspect Exhaust System at 7,500 miles. Estimated first-year maintenance: $300 - $500. Repair prediction highlight: Engine (typical at 4,000 miles, estimated cost Min: $500 • Max: $2,500+).

What engine is in the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

Engine specs list 4 • 2.0.

What transmission does the 2022 Hyundai Kona use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Hyundai Kona, transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The paired drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive.

Does the 2022 Kona require Premium gas?▾

Manufacturer fuel recommendation: Premium.

What is the combined EPA MPG for the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

EPA combined estimate is 23 MPG.

What driver assistance and safety features are available on the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

14 standard driver assistance features. Key features include Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control.

How many people fit in a 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Hyundai Kona, seating capacity is 5.

What body style is the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Hyundai Kona, body style is suv.

What drivetrain does the 2022 Hyundai Kona use?▾

According to CarFocal's specs for the 2022 Hyundai Kona, drivetrain is Front-Wheel Drive. Transmission is Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What are the NHTSA safety ratings for the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

NHTSA ratings: Overall 5/5 • Frontal 5/5 • Side 5/5 • Rollover 4/5.

What are the most common engine problems on the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

Top complaint category: engine (27 reports, 20.9% of complaints).

Should buyers consider alternatives to the 2022 Hyundai Kona?▾

Alternatives listed in this guide: 2022 Honda HR-V and 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross.

Start Here

Maintenance guide

Costs + intervals

Recall report

Campaigns + remedy notes

Owner complaints

Issue volume + categories

In this guide

  1. 01Overview
  2. 02Who This Car Is For
  3. 03Reliability & Problems
  4. 04Vehicle Specs
  5. 05Unlock Full Report
  6. 06FAQ

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