The Hyundai KONA is a subcompact crossover SUV produced since the 2018 model year. It is available in multiple powertrain configurations, including naturally aspirated petrol, turbocharged petrol, hybrid, and full battery-electric variants. Towing capacity varies by model year, drivetrain, engine specification, and regional market, with international markets generally publishing higher rated figures than the North American market.
This guide covers year-by-year towing specifications for the Hyundai KONA from 2018 through 2026, including maximum trailer weight, tongue weight, hitch class, and payload data. Following manufacturer-rated towing limits helps protect the engine, transmission, braking system, and structural components from premature wear or failure.
Important regional note: Hyundai USA and Canada do not recommend towing with the KONA in their owner’s manuals and publish no official towing figures for North American models. All specifications in this guide reference internationally published manufacturer data, primarily from Hyundai Australia and Hyundai UK. Always confirm figures using the owner’s manual for your specific regional vehicle before towing any load.
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2026 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Atkinson MPi (149 hp); 1.6L T-GDi Hybrid (199 hp combined); Electric (Standard and Extended Range) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,866 lbs / 1,300 kg (Petrol and Hybrid); 1,653 lbs / 750 kg (Electric Extended Range) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 992-1,102 lbs / 450-500 kg (market dependent) |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,834 lbs / 3,100 kg (configuration dependent) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 287 lbs / 130 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I / Class II (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (market dependent) |
The 2026 Hyundai KONA carries forward the second-generation platform, offering a maximum towing capacity of 1,300 kg (2,866 lbs) on hybrid and petrol variants equipped with a towbar. The Electric Extended Range model is rated at 750 kg (1,653 lbs) braked, while the Standard Range electric variant is not rated for towing. Staying within the rated tongue weight of 130 kg ensures proper hitch loading and vehicle stability.
2025 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Atkinson MPi CVT (149 hp); 1.6L T-GDi Hybrid 6-speed DCT (199 hp combined); Electric (Std and Ext Range) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,866 lbs / 1,300 kg (Petrol and Hybrid); 1,653 lbs / 750 kg (Electric Extended Range); 0 kg (Electric Standard Range) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 992-1,102 lbs / 450-500 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,614 lbs / 3,000 kg (configuration dependent) |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 287 lbs / 130 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I / Class II (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (market dependent) |
The 2025 Hyundai KONA maintains the same towing structure as the 2026 model, with a maximum braked capacity of 1,300 kg for petrol and hybrid configurations. The Electric Standard Range variant is not rated for towing in the Australian market. Tongue weight is limited to 130 kg across all configurations that support towing.
2024 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L Atkinson MPi CVT (149 hp); 1.6L T-GDi Hybrid 6-speed DCT (199 hp combined); Electric |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,866 lbs / 1,300 kg (Petrol/Hybrid); 1,653 lbs / 750 kg (Electric variants where rated) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,085 lbs / 492 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,614 lbs / 3,000 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 287 lbs / 130 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III (aftermarket, 2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | No (Hyundai USA); Optional (international markets) |
The 2024 Hyundai KONA, part of the second-generation platform, supports a braked towing capacity of up to 1,300 kg on petrol and hybrid variants in international markets. Hyundai USA’s official 2024 specification sheet lists towing as “Not Recommended” for North American models. Aftermarket Class III hitches with a 2-inch receiver are available from third-party suppliers for the 2024 KONA.
2023 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI FWD (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi AWD (195 hp); Electric (64 kWh) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,527 lbs / 1,600 kg (petrol FWD); 2,756 lbs / 1,250 kg (AWD); 2,105 lbs / 955 kg (EV) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,543 lbs / 700 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,069 lbs / 485 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 7,055 lbs / 3,200 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 352 lbs / 160 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class III (aftermarket, 2-inch receiver) |
| Factory Tow Package | No (Hyundai USA); Optional (international markets) |
The 2023 Hyundai KONA represents the final year of the first-generation platform and the highest maximum towing capacity in the model’s history at 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs) for the petrol FWD configuration. The 2023 Kona Electric is rated at approximately 955 kg (2,105 lbs) braked in markets where towing is permitted. Draw-Tite and CURT both offer Class III aftermarket hitches with a 2-inch receiver for the 2018-2023 KONA.
2022 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI FWD (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi AWD (195 hp); Electric (64 kWh) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,527 lbs / 1,600 kg (petrol FWD); 2,756 lbs / 1,250 kg (AWD) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,060 lbs / 481 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,944 lbs / 3,150 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 352 lbs / 160 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I / Class III (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | No |
The 2022 Hyundai KONA supports a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs) on the petrol FWD variant in international markets. The AWD configuration carries a lower limit of 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs) due to drivetrain loading differences. Class I hitches with a 1-1/4-inch receiver are available for the KONA N variant of this model year.
2021 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI CVT (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi DCT (195 hp); Electric (64 kWh) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 3,527 lbs / 1,600 kg (petrol, select variants); 2,756 lbs / 1,250 kg (standard) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,654 lbs / 750 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,060 lbs / 481 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,724 lbs / 3,050 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 276 lbs / 125 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I / Class II (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | No |
The 2021 Hyundai KONA received a facelift for the model year, retaining its towing ratings from international specifications. Maximum braked towing capacity ranges from 1,250 kg to 1,600 kg depending on variant and configuration. Hyundai’s North American 2021 product guide lists trailer towing as “Not Recommended” for all KONA configurations.
2020 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI CVT (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi DCT (195 hp); Electric (64 kWh) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,866 lbs / 1,300 kg (petrol FWD); 2,756 lbs / 1,250 kg (AWD) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 1,014 lbs / 460 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,394 lbs / 2,900 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 229 lbs / 104 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | Optional (Australia only) |
The 2020 Hyundai KONA carries a maximum braked capacity of 1,300 kg for petrol FWD variants and 1,250 kg for AWD in international markets. Factory tow hitches were offered as a dealer option in Australia for the 2020 model year. Unbraked towing capacity is limited to 600 kg across all configurations.
2019 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI CVT (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi DCT (195 hp); Electric (64 kWh, first year) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,755 lbs / 1,250 kg |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 992 lbs / 450 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,173 lbs / 2,800 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 229 lbs / 104 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | No |
The 2019 Hyundai KONA is the first model year to include the battery-electric variant in select markets, which was initially not rated for towing in most regions. The petrol variants carry a maximum braked towing capacity of 1,250 kg (2,755 lbs) per international specifications. European-market towbars for this generation are rated to 1,250 kg with a maximum vertical towball load of 104 kg.
2018 Hyundai KONA Towing Capacity
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 2.0L MPI CVT (147 hp); 1.6L T-GDi DCT (175 hp) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD |
| Maximum Towing Capacity (Braked) | 2,866 lbs / 1,300 kg (petrol FWD); 2,756 lbs / 1,250 kg (AWD) |
| Conventional Towing Capacity (Unbraked) | 1,323 lbs / 600 kg |
| Fifth-Wheel / Gooseneck Capacity | N/A |
| Maximum Payload Capacity | Approx. 992 lbs / 450 kg |
| Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR) | Approx. 6,173 lbs / 2,800 kg |
| Tongue Weight Limit | 229 lbs / 104 kg |
| Hitch Class | Class I (aftermarket) |
| Factory Tow Package | No |
The 2018 Hyundai KONA is the first model year in the nameplate’s history, launched as a first-generation subcompact crossover SUV. International specifications rate it for a maximum braked towing capacity of up to 1,300 kg on petrol FWD models. The KONA’s debut year did not include an electric variant, which was added for the 2019 model year.
Towing Equipment and Setup
Proper towing equipment is critical for safe trailer operations, regardless of the vehicle’s rated towing limits. The components below apply to all Hyundai KONA towing configurations.
Tow Package and Hitch Installation
The Hyundai KONA does not include a factory tow package for North American models. In international markets, a dealer-installed or OEM towbar is available as an optional accessory. Aftermarket hitch suppliers including CURT, Draw-Tite, and AUTO-HAK offer fitment-specific solutions for the KONA.
Trailer Brake Controller
A trailer brake controller is required when towing trailers with an integrated braking system. This device coordinates the trailer brakes with the tow vehicle’s braking input. Using trailer brakes increases the rated towing limit from the unbraked capacity (600 kg) to the braked capacity (up to 1,600 kg).
Weight-Distributing Hitch
A weight-distributing hitch redistributes tongue weight across the vehicle’s axles for improved steering control and reduced tail squat. Given the KONA’s compact platform and tongue weight limits ranging from 104 kg to 160 kg, a weight-distributing setup is relevant for trailers approaching the upper end of the rated braked capacity.
Transmission Cooler
Towing generates additional heat in the transmission fluid. The KONA’s turbocharged 1.6L T-GDi paired with the 7-speed DCT is more heat-sensitive than a traditional torque-converter automatic. An auxiliary transmission cooler reduces fluid degradation when towing near the rated limit.
Tire Load Ratings
Tires must meet or exceed the vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) plus tongue weight load. Underinflated or underrated tires increase the risk of blowout under combined vehicle and hitch loading.
Trailer Sway Control
Trailer sway is a lateral oscillation caused by improper load distribution or excessive speed. The Hyundai KONA includes Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) on most trim levels, which assists in mitigating trailer sway by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine torque.
Normal Towing vs. Heavy Towing Setup
| Component | Light Towing (under 600 kg) | Heavy Towing (600 kg – 1,600 kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Hitch Type | Class I, 1-1/4-inch receiver | Class II / III, 1-7/8-inch or 2-inch receiver |
| Trailer Brakes Required | No | Yes |
| Weight Distribution | Not required | Recommended |
| Transmission Cooler | Not required | Recommended |
| Tire Pressure Check | Standard | Increased to rated maximum |
| Trailer Sway Control | Vehicle VSM | Vehicle VSM plus anti-sway bar |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum towing capacity of a Hyundai KONA?
The maximum towing capacity of the Hyundai KONA is 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs) in braked configuration, recorded on first-generation petrol FWD models in the 2022 and 2023 model years. This figure applies to international market specifications and requires a properly rated towbar and trailer with its own braking system. Hyundai does not publish towing capacity figures for North American models and does not recommend towing with the KONA in that market.
How much can a Hyundai KONA tow with a tow package?
The KONA does not include a factory tow package for North American models. In markets where an OEM or dealer-installed towbar is available, the maximum braked towing capacity reaches 1,300 kg to 1,600 kg depending on the model year and variant. The towball weight limit must not exceed 130 kg to 160 kg depending on the year.
Does AWD affect Hyundai KONA towing capacity?
Yes. AWD variants of the Hyundai KONA generally carry a lower maximum braked towing rating than FWD variants in the same model year. For example, the 2022 and 2023 AWD models are rated at 1,250 kg (2,756 lbs), while the FWD petrol version of the same year supports up to 1,600 kg (3,527 lbs). The difference relates to powertrain loading, rear axle stress, and drivetrain thermal limits.
What trailer weight is safe for a Hyundai KONA?
The safe trailer weight for a Hyundai KONA depends on the model year and configuration. For current second-generation models (2024-2026), the rated maximum braked trailer weight is 1,300 kg for petrol and hybrid variants. Trailers approaching the rated limit require their own braking system and proper load distribution within the tongue weight specification. Never exceed the GVWR or the rated tongue weight for the specific model year and variant.
Do I need a weight-distributing hitch for a Hyundai KONA?
A weight-distributing hitch is not required for light trailer loads below 600 kg on the Hyundai KONA. For trailers between 600 kg and 1,300 kg that approach the upper towing limits, a weight-distributing hitch assists in maintaining front axle steering control and reduces suspension compression at the rear. The KONA’s tongue weight limits (104 kg to 160 kg depending on year) must not be exceeded regardless of hitch type.
Can the Hyundai KONA Electric tow a trailer?
The Hyundai KONA Electric is rated for towing in some international markets, but not in North America. The extended range electric variant carries a maximum braked towing capacity of 750 kg in the Australian market for 2024-2026 model years. The standard range electric variant is not rated for any towing in these markets. Towing with an EV reduces driving range, and the extent of range loss depends on trailer aerodynamics and load weight.
Conclusion
The Hyundai KONA supports a towing capacity range of 1,250 kg to 1,600 kg (2,756 lbs to 3,527 lbs) across its production history in international markets, with the highest figures recorded on the petrol FWD first-generation models from 2022 and 2023. Second-generation models (2024-2026) carry a maximum of 1,300 kg for petrol and hybrid configurations, with electric variants rated at 750 kg where permitted. Engine specification, drivetrain type, and regional market determine the actual towing limit applicable to any individual vehicle.
The absence of a factory tow package for North American models means North American buyers must rely on aftermarket solutions and exercise caution, as Hyundai USA and Canada do not sanction towing with the KONA platform. For all markets, exceeding the rated maximum trailer weight, tongue weight, or GCWR places additional stress on the transmission, braking system, and structural components beyond their tested design limits.
Always verify towing specifications using the owner’s manual for your specific model year and regional variant before towing any load.
