Hyundai Philippines is celebrating its third year in the country with the return of one of its more recognizable models, the KONA. But this time, it’s back with a twist. It’s now a hybrid.

The launch took place at Bonifacio High Street Amphitheater in BGC, where Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) unveiled the second-generation KONA Hybrid.

First introduced globally in 2017 and brought to the Philippines a year later, the KONA has picked up several awards along the way. Now, Hyundai’s hoping it’ll catch the attention of a new generation of Filipino drivers looking for a stylish yet practical crossover with a bit of tech under the hood.

At first glance, the new KONA looks sharper and more futuristic. It sports a sleeker profile with aerodynamic lines, a signature LED horizon lamp up front, and 3D accents on the bumper that align with Hyundai’s latest design language. The Hybrid Premium variant adds 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels, roof rails, and a sunroof — details that give the car a more rugged and upscale edge.

What’s under the hood is just as interesting. It runs on a 1.6-liter hybrid engine paired with a 6-speed dual clutch transmission. Combined, the setup delivers 141 PS and 144 Nm of torque. It also comes with Smart Regenerative Braking and what Hyundai calls e-Motion Drive, aimed at keeping things smooth and efficient whether you’re stuck in city traffic or cruising down the expressway.

Inside, the KONA puts comfort and functionality front and center. The cabin has a modern layout with a floating panoramic display — a dual 12.3-inch screen setup for both instruments and infotainment. It features an electronic gear selector, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, wireless phone charging (with a cooling fan), and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There are USB Type-C ports, open console storage, and cup holders that rotate to free up space when not needed. The second row folds flat, expanding cargo capacity to as much as 1,241 liters. There’s even a Smart Power Tailgate that lets you set the opening height, which is helpful if your garage ceiling isn’t very high.

Safety-wise, it’s packed with Hyundai’s SmartSense — their suite of advanced driver-assistance features. This includes things like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and even a Blind Spot View Monitor and 360-degree Surround View system for tight city parking.

The KONA Hybrid is offered in two variants: the 1.6 HEV GLS 6DCT priced at P1,528,000, and the more decked-out 1.6 HEV Premium 6DCT at P1,688,000. Buyers can choose from five colors: Neoteric Yellow, Atlas White, Abyss Black Pearl, Cyber Gray, and Meta Blue Pearl.

With the addition of the KONA Hybrid, Hyundai continues to grow its electrified lineup in the Philippines, following the hybrid versions of the Santa Fe, Tucson and Elantra. The timing seems right, too, as more Pinoy car buyers are becoming open to hybrids as a practical middle ground before going fully electric.