2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a significant mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bold new front-end design reminiscent of the BMW 7 Series sedan. The LED accent lights were repositioned, and the actual headlights were tucked underneath, creating a polarizing look with its oversized kidney grille. While the front-end styling was controversial, the sides and rear remained largely unchanged, maintaining some continuity. Inside, the X7 featured a refreshed dashboard with a curved glass display housing the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The interior boasted high-quality materials, including supple leather and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute, though some trim choices caused glare issues.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Kona was designed with an electric vehicle aesthetic, featuring a grille similar to the Ioniq 5 and a single-piece LED headlight. Despite its increased size, the Kona retained a recognizable silhouette, with new design elements like the creased "parametric surface" on the doors and substantial black body cladding. The interior saw significant updates, including a driver-oriented centre stack and a relocated gear shift, creating more space. The cabin featured a curved display for driver information and infotainment, with revised vents and controls.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered a robust performance lineup, starting with the base xDrive40i model, which featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. The M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and xDrive all-wheel drive. Despite its weight of nearly 2,720 kilograms, the X7 provided impressive acceleration and handling, with a slightly firmer ride that balanced performance and comfort.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine for the Essential and Preferred trims, producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The N Line trims featured a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. The Kona's handling was nimble, and the steering intuitive, though the turbocharged engine's pickup was slightly slow. Fuel economy varied depending on the drivetrain, with AWD models consuming more.

The 2023 BMW X7 excelled in interior space, with ample room for second-row passengers and a large sunroof enhancing the airy feel. The third row was accessible via power-operated middle seats, offering adequate space for average-sized adults. Cargo capacity was generous, with 362 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,376 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 2,560 litres with all rear seats down. The split tailgate and air suspension made loading easier, while front-seat storage was ample.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona benefited from increased dimensions, offering 970 mm of rear-seat legroom and improved headroom. Cargo capacity increased significantly to 723 litres with the rear seats up and 1,803 litres with them folded. Interior storage was enhanced with a handy dash shelf and a wireless charging pad with a guardrail. Seating options varied by trim, with ventilated front seats available on the N Line with the Ultimate package. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on higher trims.

The 2023 BMW X7 featured the latest iDrive 8 infotainment system, though it was seen as a step backward due to the reduction of physical buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, but many functions required navigating complex menus. Voice commands were available but sometimes cumbersome. A Harman Kardon sound system was standard, with a head-up display as an option.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display as standard, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on most trims. The N Line's Ultimate package required wired connections due to compatibility issues with onboard navigation. The Kona featured a Bose stereo system, dual USB-C ports, and OTA update capability. Hyundai’s Bluelink connected services and a digital key feature were also standard.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. Optional features included a surround-view camera system and highway driving assist. The safety systems performed reliably, enhancing driver confidence.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona offered advanced safety features across all trims, with standard Safe Exit Warning, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. Adaptive cruise control was standard from the Preferred trim, and the N Line’s Ultimate package included additional features like Surround View Monitor. Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist provided smooth lane-keeping and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.