Towing tailspin: discover if the hyundai kona can handle the load

The Hyundai Kona, a compact SUV renowned for its versatility and efficiency, has sparked curiosity among adventure enthusiasts and road trippers alike. One burning question that often arises is: Can the Hyundai Kona be flat towed? In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into the intricacies of flat towing and provide a definitive answer to this crucial query.

Understanding Flat Towing

Flat towing, also known as dinghy towing, involves towing a vehicle behind another without using a trailer. The towed vehicle’s wheels are placed on the ground, and the two vehicles are connected via a tow bar and safety cables. This method is commonly used to transport recreational vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, and ATVs.

Flat Towing the Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is designed for everyday driving and not intended for flat towing. However, some models equipped with a manual transmission and specific drivetrain configurations may be flat towable with certain modifications and precautions.

Modifications Required for Flat Towing

To ensure safe and reliable flat towing of the Hyundai Kona, the following modifications may be necessary:

• Driveline Disconnect: The Kona’s all-wheel-drive system must be disconnected to prevent damage to the transmission. This can be achieved by removing the rear driveshaft or installing a driveline disconnect switch.
• Transmission Coolers: The Kona’s transmission may overheat during prolonged flat towing. Installing an auxiliary transmission cooler can help dissipate heat and maintain optimal operating temperatures.
• Tow Bar and Safety Equipment: A suitable tow bar and safety cables must be used to securely connect the Kona to the towing vehicle.

Precautions for Flat Towing

In addition to the required modifications, it is crucial to follow these precautions when flat towing the Hyundai Kona:

• Tow Speed: Limit towing speeds to 50-55 mph to minimize wear and tear on the Kona’s drivetrain.
• Distance: Avoid towing the Kona for extended distances without taking breaks to allow the transmission to cool down.
• Lubrication: Regularly lubricate the tow bar and safety cables to prevent wear and ensure smooth operation.
• Vehicle Inspection: Thoroughly inspect the Kona before and after towing to ensure there are no signs of damage.

Models and Configurations Suitable for Flat Towing

While not all Hyundai Kona models are flat towable, the following specific configurations have been reported to be compatible with the required modifications:

• Kona 2.0L Manual Transmission (2018-2022)
• Kona Ultimate 2.0L Manual Transmission (2018-2022)

Models and Configurations Not Suitable for Flat Towing

The following Hyundai Kona models and configurations are not suitable for flat towing:

• Kona with Automatic Transmission
• Kona with All-Wheel Drive (except the 2.0L Manual Transmission models listed above)
• Kona Electric

Conclusion: A Conditional Yes

To summarize, the Hyundai Kona can be flat towed under certain conditions. Only specific models with manual transmissions and the appropriate drivetrain configurations can be flat towed with the necessary modifications and precautions. It is essential to consult with a qualified mechanic or towing expert before attempting to flat tow a Hyundai Kona to ensure safety and prevent damage to the vehicle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I flat tow a Hyundai Kona with an automatic transmission?

A: No, flat towing is not recommended for Hyundai Kona models with automatic transmissions.

Q: What is the maximum towing speed for a Hyundai Kona?

A: The recommended towing speed for a Hyundai Kona is 50-55 mph.

Q: Do I need to install a transmission cooler when flat towing a Hyundai Kona?

A: Yes, installing an auxiliary transmission cooler is highly recommended to prevent overheating during prolonged towing.

Q: Can I flat tow a Hyundai Kona Electric?

A: No, the Hyundai Kona Electric is not suitable for flat towing.

Q: How do I disconnect the driveline on a Hyundai Kona for flat towing?

A: To disconnect the driveline, you can either remove the rear driveshaft or install a driveline disconnect switch. Consult with a qualified mechanic for assistance.