Besides Elantra, could Hyundai PH also bring Kona Hybrid?

We're just a month away from the 2025 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) and some brands are already letting the public know they have plenty in store for this year's show. Take Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) for example who appears to be making moves behind the scenes.

We've already seen the Staria Lounge listed on the LTO's new homologated vehicles which could be powered by a 1.6L turbo-gas hybrid engine. In addition, the Korean automaker recently received approval for a new passenger car that could be offered with various powertrain options like turbo-gas, hybrid, and naturally aspirated. Based on the mystery vehicle's weight and engine sizes, it looks like the Elantra could also make a comeback via the 7^th generation model.

However, there has been yet another development about Hyundai's upcoming models for the Philippines. Recently, we've heard rumors going around that the automaker is also interested in bringing back the Kona. But instead of offering it with an internal combustion engine (ICE), several anonymous sources shared with us that the new-generation Kona might only be offered as a hybrid.

Based on what other markets get, the Kona Hybrid is powered by a 1.6L four-cylinder gas engine with an exact displacement of 1580cc. The powertrain is then assisted by a 1.32 kWh battery pack and an electric motor which produces a combined system output of 141 PS and 265 Nm of torque. Both the Elantra Hybrid and the Kona Hybrid share the 1.6L hybrid engine as both come with a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission in other markets.

With the possibility of the Kona Hybrid making its debut in the Philippines soon, it looks like Hyundai wants to offer more electrified vehicles to its customers. The only question now is, how much will the automaker price it in order not to cannibalize sales of the Tucson Hybrid which is already on sale in the country?