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Hyundai Kona: which year should you buy?

Across the 2019 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2021 (80/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2021 80 · 2024 77 · 2019 76 · 2020 75

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202686/100
Too New

6 complaints · 2 recalls

202477/100
Buy

42 complaints · 3 recalls

202364/100
Caution

61 complaints · 1 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202180/100
Buybest year

111 complaints · 1 recalls

202075/100
Buy

152 complaints · 2 recalls

201976/100
Buy

184 complaints · 1 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2021?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2021 Hyundai Kona’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 Hyundai Kona head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the Hyundai Kona as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.