Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity: The Complete, Expert-Crafted Guide

When it comes to subcompact SUVs that deliver a confident blend of urban agility and surprising versatility, the Hyundai Kona stands out. Although Hyundai officially discourages towing in certain markets, many Kona owners still seek clear, accurate, and comprehensive information about what their vehicle can realistically handle. In this detailed guide, we break down every towing figure by model year, explain towing variations, outline essential equipment, and provide practical insights to ensure safe and effective towing with any Hyundai Kona model.

Understanding Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity Across All Model Years

The Kona’s towing capability varies by generation, engine type, and drivetrain configuration. While later models can pull more, earlier versions still offer respectable capacities for lightweight towing tasks.

Maximum Towing Capacity at a Glance

• Highest braked towing capacity: 3,527 lbs (1,600 kg)
• Typical unbraked towing capacity: 1,543 lbs (700 kg)
• Hyundai Kona Electric towing capacity: 2,105 lbs (EV variants)

These figures apply across various markets, particularly where Hyundai rates the Kona for towing outside the United States.

Towing Capacity by Model Year (2018–2024)

Below is a precise breakdown of towing capacities across all trim levels for each model year.

2023 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

All 2023 trims are rated at 3,527 lbs (1,600 kg), including:

• SE
• SEL
• N Line
• Limited
• Kona N

This makes 2023 one of the strongest years for Kona towing performance.

2022 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

Every trim in 2022 is also capable of towing 3,527 lbs (1,600 kg), matching the current peak rating.

2021 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

• All trims: 2,866 lbs (1,250 kg)

This model year offers slightly reduced towing performance compared with 2022–2023 but still supports lightweight trailers.

2020 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

• All trims: 2,866 lbs (1,250 kg)

Identical to the 2021 model year rating.

2019 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

• All trims: 2,755 lbs (1,250 kg)

This year marks the lowest documented rating in the Kona lineup.

2018 Hyundai Kona Towing Capacity

• All trims: 2,866 lbs (1,250 kg)

Despite being the first model year, the Kona performs on par with 2020–2021 models.

Hyundai Kona Electric Towing Capacity

Electric variants of the Kona have different performance characteristics due to weight distribution, torque delivery, and cooling considerations.

• Kona Electric towing capacity: 2,105 lbs (approx. 950 kg)

This makes the Kona EV suitable for bike carriers, small trailers, and compact utility loads.

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Braked vs. Unbraked Towing Capacity

The Kona’s towing capability varies depending on whether the trailer is equipped with its own braking system.

Braked trailers always enable higher towing loads by reducing strain during deceleration and improving control.

Key Factors Affecting Hyundai Kona Towing Performance

The Kona’s real-world towing capability depends on several variables:

1. Model Year

Later models generally offer the highest towing ratings, with 2022–2023 topping the charts at 3,527 lbs.

2. Engine and Powertrain

Turbocharged engines typically provide better torque for towing than naturally aspirated variants.

3. Passenger and Cargo Weight

GCWR (Gross Combined Weight Rating) includes passengers and luggage. A fully loaded cabin can significantly reduce your safe towing capacity.

4. Road and Weather Conditions

Steep gradients, high temperatures, and slippery surfaces can affect towing performance.

Does the Hyundai Kona Come With a Factory Tow Package?

Hyundai does not offer a dedicated tow package for the Kona. That means:

• No pre-installed hitch
• No factory wiring harness
• No integrated towing hardware

Owners must install aftermarket equipment to tow safely.

Installing a Trailer Hitch on a Hyundai Kona

Even without a factory package, the Kona is fully compatible with aftermarket tow hitches.

Hitch Classes Compatible with Hyundai Kona

• Class I
• Class II
• Class III (most versatile and recommended for higher towing loads)

Class III hitches offer a 2-inch receiver and support the higher end of the Kona’s towing range.

Essential Towing Equipment for the Hyundai Kona

To tow safely, you'll need:

1. Trailer Hitch Receiver

Choose a Class II or III hitch depending on your towing needs.

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2. Wiring Harness

Required for brake lights, turn signals, and hazard indicators on your trailer.

3. Ball Mount

Ensures proper trailer connection and a level towing angle.

4. Trailer Ball

Must match:

• Trailer coupler size
• Hitch rating
• Load requirements

5. Safety Chains

Mandatory for securing the trailer to the vehicle's frame.

Hitch Installation Costs

Professional installation typically costs:

• $100–$200 (labor only)
• Additional costs include the hitch receiver and wiring harness.

Owners with moderate DIY skills can install the hitch themselves by following manufacturer instructions.

Can You Tow From the Bumper on a Hyundai Kona?

No.
The Kona’s factory bumper is not rated for towing. Only a frame-mounted hitch should be used.

How to Check if Your Kona Already Has a Hitch Installed

You can inspect the following areas:

1. Under the Rear Bumper

Look for:

• Receiver tube
• Hitch plate
• Wiring connector

2. Vehicle Documentation

Check:

• Original dealer paperwork
• Previous owner service records

3. VIN Lookup

Your Hyundai dealer can provide:

• Original factory specifications
• Installed accessory list

Safety Tips for Towing With a Hyundai Kona

To maintain safety and prevent drivetrain wear:

• Avoid exceeding braked or unbraked limits
• Distribute trailer load evenly
• Maintain correct tire pressure
• Use trailer brakes whenever possible
• Regularly check wiring and hitch hardware

Final Thoughts

The Hyundai Kona may not be marketed as a heavy-duty towing machine, but with the correct setup, it proves surprisingly capable for light to moderate towing tasks. Whether you're pulling a lightweight camper, bike trailer, or cargo carrier, knowing your exact towing limits by model year is essential.

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With up to 3,527 lbs of braked towing capacity in recent models, the Kona delivers far more utility than many drivers expect from a subcompact SUV — and with proper equipment and safe driving techniques, it performs confidently when put to work.

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