Q
Is the 2020 Hyundai Kona AWD?
The 2020 Hyundai Kona does offer an AWD (All-Wheel Drive) option here in Malaysia, but it's not standard across all trims. It really depends on which variant you go for – typically, the higher-spec models are more likely to come with AWD to boost driving stability and grip on trickier roads.
Given Malaysia's rainy weather and some of those slightly rough suburban paths, AWD does a solid job of improving traction on wet surfaces or when you're doing a bit of light off-roading. But honestly, for everyday city driving, the front-wheel drive version is more than enough and way easier on fuel.
Hyundai's AWD system in the Kona is electronically controlled, so it shifts torque between the front and rear axles in real time – that way, you get a good balance of fuel efficiency and decent handling. Plus, there are different drive modes (Normal, Eco, Sport) to switch things up depending on what you need that day.
If you're someone who frequently heads up to the hills or into rainforest areas, AWD is definitely a useful feature. But it's worth thinking about your actual needs before deciding, because the AWD models do cost a bit more and drink a touch more petrol than the FWD ones.
Hyundai's local assembly here in Malaysia also helps keep the Kona pretty competitively priced for what you get. All things considered, it's definitely a model worth checking out.
Q
How much is an oil change for a Hyundai Kona 2020?
For a 2020 Hyundai Kona in Malaysia, an oil change typically runs between RM150 and RM300. The exact cost hinges on a few key things: the type of oil you go for (mineral, semi-synthetic, or full synthetic), whether you choose an official Hyundai service center or an independent workshop, and if other basic maintenance items like an oil filter replacement are included. Full synthetic oil does cost more upfront, but it offers superior engine protection and longer intervals between changes. Hyundai dealerships will usually use oil that meets Hyundai's specifications and often include warranty coverage with the service, while independent shops might have more competitive pricing. As a general rule, it's a good idea to change your oil every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers or every 6 months to keep the engine running at its best. For Kona models with the turbocharged engine, full synthetic oil is even more recommended to ensure proper lubrication and heat management. Always check your vehicle's owner's manual for specific maintenance guidelines or consult an authorized Hyundai service center for the most accurate pricing and service recommendations.
Q
What is the problem with the 2020 Hyundai Kona SEL?
The main issue with the 2020 Hyundai Kona SEL in the Malaysian market centers around transmission jerkiness reported by some owners, particularly noticeable during low-speed gear changes. This likely ties back to the dual-clutch transmission's tuning characteristics. Additionally, a small number of vehicles have experienced false warnings from the electronic system, which can usually be fixed with a simple software update.
Under the hood, the 1.6L turbocharged engine performs well, but in Malaysia's tropical climate, it's wise to shorten the coolant replacement interval. The high heat and humidity here tend to speed up the degradation of coolant performance.
One standout feature worth mentioning is Hyundai's special attention to the Southeast Asian market: they beefed up the air conditioning system's cooling capacity specifically for the 2020 regional models. This makes it far better suited to our local climate compared to the European or American versions.
If you're eyeing a used Kona SEL, a key check should be the sunroof drain tubes. With Southeast Asia's frequent downpours, clogged drains can quickly become a headache. On the plus side, Hyundai has a pretty extensive dealer network across Malaysia, and their 5-year unlimited mileage warranty offers solid peace of mind for keeping maintenance costs in check down the line. For optimal care of that turbo engine, sticking with Hyundai-approved SPI-3 fully synthetic engine oil during regular services is definitely recommended.
Q
What kind of transmission does a 2018 Hyundai Tucson have?
The 2018 Hyundai Tucson offers Malaysian buyers a choice between a 6-speed manual (6MT) and 6-speed automatic (6AT) gearbox, with the specific transmission depending on the trim level and powertrain. For instance, the 2.0L naturally aspirated petrol engine typically comes paired with the 6AT, while some diesel variants might feature the 6MT. Hyundai's transmission tech is known for smooth shifts and solid durability – the 6AT uses smart logic control that adapts to your driving style, balancing fuel efficiency with responsive power delivery.
In Malaysia's tropical climate and varied road conditions, transmission cooling is crucial, and Hyundai's cooling system is designed to handle extended periods of stop-and-go city traffic or long highway drives. If you're eyeing a used Tucson, it's wise to get a professional inspection to check the transmission fluid condition and shift performance. Sticking to regular changes of the factory-recommended fluid can seriously extend its lifespan.
Rivals like the Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 in the same segment also use similar 6-speed auto setups, but each brand has its own tuning character – Hyundai leans more towards a comfortable, smooth-driving experience.
Q
How long is a Hyundai Palisade?
The Hyundai Palisade, stretching around 4995mm in length, is a full-size SUV that’s a perfect fit for Malaysian families – especially those who frequently hit the road for long trips or need to haul a lot of gear, thanks to its spacious cabin and impressive cargo capacity. Hyundai has decked it out with their latest design language, giving it a bold, modern look that turns heads. Inside, you’ll find a solid tech package too, like a large touchscreen and advanced driver-assistance systems, which really up the comfort and safety factor behind the wheel.
Over in Malaysia, the Palisade has built a strong following among buyers, and it’s easy to see why – it offers great value for money and proven reliability. Plus, with its three-row seating setup, it can comfortably squeeze in seven or eight people, making it ideal for big families or group outings. If the Palisade has caught your eye, do yourself a favor and swing by your local Hyundai dealership for a test drive. There’s no better way to get a feel for how it drives and check out all the features up close.
Q
How to activate the massage seats of Hyundai Palisade?
To activate the seat massage function in the Hyundai Palisade, first make sure the vehicle is started and the seat power is on. Then, locate the massage button on the side of the driver or front passenger seat (it's usually labeled "Massage" or has a little massage icon). Once you press that button, you can use either the infotainment screen or the seat-mounted controls to pick your preferred massage mode—like lumbar, back, or full-body—and adjust the intensity. Some models even let you switch between different strength levels and massage patterns.
For our friends in Malaysia, keep in mind that using the heated massage function for long periods in the tropical heat might not be the most comfortable. We’d recommend sticking to the ventilation or normal temperature modes instead. Hyundai’s seat massage tech uses multiple airbags working together to really help ease that long-drive fatigue, but try not to use it for more than 15 minutes at a stretch—you don’t want your muscles getting too relaxed and affecting your focus on the road.
If you run into any issues with the function, give the vehicle a quick restart or check the user manual for system reset steps. If that doesn’t fix it, best to reach out to your nearest Hyundai authorized service center in Malaysia for a professional check-up. Just a heads-up: this feature is typically standard on the higher trim levels of the Palisade, so make sure to ask your dealer to go through the spec sheet with you before buying to confirm.
Q
How many seats does the Hyundai Palisade have?
The Hyundai Palisade is a 7-seater full-size SUV that's a perfect fit for Malaysian families or anyone needing serious space. It's got a 2+2+3 seating setup – those two individual captain's chairs in the second row? Total game-changer for comfort, and the third row can easily handle three passengers. All in all, the space is super flexible and practical.
But it's not just about the number of seats. The Palisade comes loaded with comfort features that make a difference, like ventilated and heated seats, plus separate rear air-con – even long drives feel easy. Under the hood, there's a 3.8L V6 petrol engine that delivers plenty of punch, handling Malaysia's varied road conditions without breaking a sweat. And when it comes to safety, it's got the good stuff: smart cruise control, blind-spot monitoring... all the tech to keep you and your crew secure.
For Malaysian buyers eyeing a large SUV, the Hyundai Palisade ticks all the boxes – space, comfort, and safety – making it a solid choice for family hauling.
Q
What is the width of the Hyundai Palisade?
The Hyundai Palisade measures 1,975mm in width, placing it among the broader options in its SUV class. This generous width translates to ample shoulder room inside, with the second and third rows benefiting noticeably in terms of comfort. For Malaysian drivers, though, that extra width does require a bit more mindfulness in urban settings – especially on tight roads or in crowded parking lots. Leveraging the 360-degree camera system and other driver aids is a smart move to keep things smooth and safe.
As a large SUV, the Palisade's wide stance isn't just about looking tough and commanding on the road; it also contributes to a stable feel at highway speeds. Factor in the flexible interior layout, and it's a solid choice for family outings or those longer road trips. Here in Malaysia's tropical heat, good ventilation and AC performance are non-negotiable, and the Palisade's spacious cabin paired with its multi-zone climate control does a commendable job of keeping everyone cool and comfortable.
If you're shopping around for a large SUV, it’s worth cross-checking width specs with rivals. For context, the Toyota Fortuner comes in at 1,845mm and the Mitsubishi Pajero Sport at 1,815mm. Comparing these figures can help you decide if the Palisade's extra width is a boon for your specific needs.
Q
What type of gasoline is suitable for Hyundai Palisade?
According to Hyundai's official recommendations, the Hyundai Palisade in the Malaysian market should use RON 95 unleaded petrol. This 3.8-liter V6 engine has been specifically tuned for Southeast Asian fuel quality, and RON 95 is all it needs to deliver optimal performance and fuel efficiency. While RON 97 petrol boasts a higher octane rating, Hyundai engineers confirm that the Palisade's ECU automatically adapts to different fuel grades. Running higher octane fuel long-term won't net you any extra power or better mileage; it'll just hit your wallet harder at the pumps.
It's worth noting that some petrol stations in Malaysia already add cleaning agents to their RON 95, which does a solid job of keeping the fuel system clean. So, you can skip the aftermarket fuel additives – they're really not necessary here. If you're someone who racks up a lot of highway kays, consider premium options like Petronas Primax 95 or Shell FuelSave 95. Their unique additive packages are designed to help minimize carbon buildup over time.
Now, if you ever find yourself in a spot where only RON 97 is available, don't sweat it too much. The vehicle's ignition timing system will tweak itself accordingly. But here's the thing: regularly mixing different octane grades might throw off the oxygen sensor's accuracy over time. So, sticking to a single grade is definitely the smarter play for long-term engine health.
Hyundai service centers stress that choosing the right fuel, combined with regular maintenance – especially swapping out the spark plugs every 40,000 kilometers – is absolutely key to keeping that Lambda II engine running smoothly and reliably for years to come.
Q
What is the price of Hyundai Palisade?
In Malaysia, the Hyundai Palisade's pricing varies depending on the trim and configuration. The entry-level 2WD GL starts at around RM250,000, while the top-spec AWD Premium can go up to approximately RM330,000. Actual prices might fluctuate based on dealer promotions or optional extras. As Hyundai's flagship SUV, the Palisade is known for its spacious three-row seating, premium interior, and advanced tech features – think a 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster, panoramic sunroof, and smart driver assistance systems. It's a solid pick for families prioritizing space and comfort. Under the hood, the Palisade packs a 3.5L V6 naturally aspirated engine, churning out a smooth 272 horsepower. Higher trims also get the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, making it capable for both daily commutes and light off-roading. If your budget's a bit tighter but you still want a big SUV, keep an eye on rivals like the Toyota Fortuner or Mitsubishi Pajero Sport. They offer similar practicality at a friendlier price point, though they can't quite match the Palisade's luxury and tech levels. Before making a decision, I'd definitely recommend heading to an authorized dealer for a test drive and comparing warranty terms and after-sales service packages across different models.