Hyundai Kona: What Driving Mode to Use When Stuck in Snow?

The Hyundai Kona has established itself as a versatile subcompact SUV capable of handling diverse driving conditions, including challenging winter weather. With its intelligent drive mode system, the Kona offers drivers specific settings designed to overcome snowy conditions. Understanding how to leverage these modes can mean the difference between remaining stuck in a snowbank and safely continuing your journey.

The Kona Drive Mode System

The Hyundai Kona has a Drive Mode Select system that allows drivers to adjust the vehicle's performance characteristics to match the road conditions. On front-wheel drive models, three modes are available: Normal, Sport, and Eco. The all-wheel drive (AWD) variants add a crucial fourth option: Snow mode. Each mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shift patterns, and in AWD models, torque distribution between the front and rear wheels.

Snow Mode: Your Primary Winter Ally

When facing snowy conditions, the Snow mode on AWD Kona models is specifically engineered to enhance traction and stability. This mode makes several key adjustments to the vehicle’s systems:

1. It starts the vehicle in second gear to reduce wheel spin

2. It adjusts the traction control system to allow slight wheel slip when needed

3. It modifies throttle response for more gradual power delivery

4. It optimizes torque distribution between front and rear axles

5. It holds gears longer to maintain steady power delivery

Techniques for Using Snow Mode Effectively

The Gentle Rocking Method

When stuck in snow, the Kona Snow mode can be most effective when combined with proper driving techniques:

1. Straighten the front wheels

2. Select Snow mode

3. Apply gentle, progressive throttle

4. Allow the vehicle to move forward slightly

5. Take your foot off the accelerator

6. Let the vehicle roll back slightly

7. Repeat this rocking motion to gradually build momentum

This technique works in conjunction with Snow mode’s calibrated traction control, which allows just enough wheel spin to clear snow from the tires’ treads without digging deeper into the snow.

When Snow Mode Isn’t Enough: Additional Strategies

Traction Control Considerations

In certain deep snow situations, the Kona traction control system—even in Snow mode—might be too restrictive. In these specific scenarios, briefly deactivating traction control can help:

1. Switch to Snow mode first

2. Press the ESC (Electronic Stability Control) OFF button briefly to enter ESC Sport mode

3. Apply more aggressive throttle to allow controlled wheel spin

4. Once moving, re-engage full traction control

This approach should only be used as a last resort when gentle methods have been unsuccessful, as it compromises overall stability.

AWD Lock Feature

For 2022 and newer Kona AWD models, the AWD Lock button provides an additional option for extremely challenging conditions:

1. Activate Snow mode

2. Press the AWD Lock button to force a 50:50 power distribution

3. Use gentle, steady throttle

4. Deactivate AWD Lock once you’ve cleared the difficult section

This feature is designed for low-speed recovery from challenging situations and automatically disengages at higher speeds.

Front-Wheel Drive Kona Strategies

Owners of front-wheel drive Kona models without dedicated Snow mode can still improve their chances in snowy conditions:

1. Select Eco mode to reduce throttle sensitivity

2. Use gentle, progressive acceleration

3. Maintain higher gears when possible

4. Consider aftermarket traction aids like tire socks or chains where permitted

5. Add weight over the drive wheels by placing sandbags in the cargo area

Preparation Beyond Drive Modes

While the Kona drive modes are valuable tools, preparation remains essential:

1. Install winter tires for optimal cold-weather traction

2. Carry an emergency kit including a shovel, traction aids, and warm clothing

3. Keep your fuel tank at least half full during winter

4. Consider remote start options to warm the vehicle before driving

5. Practice winter driving techniques in a safe, empty area

5 Facts About the Hyundai Kona and Snow Driving

1. The Kona AWD system can transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear wheels in Snow mode, but operates primarily in front-wheel drive during normal driving to maximize fuel efficiency.

2. Hyundai engineers tested the Kona Snow mode capabilities in northern Sweden at temperatures reaching -35°C to ensure reliable performance in extreme winter conditions.

3. The Kona Electric model features a specialized Winter mode that preheats the battery for optimal performance while also adjusting regenerative braking intensity to prevent unexpected slippage on icy roads.

4. When in Snow mode, the Kona stability control system monitors wheel slip 100 times per second, making micro-adjustments to power delivery faster than any human driver could react.

5. The 2022+ Kona models feature a revised AWD system with an enhanced coupling that can react to traction loss within 0.08 seconds—approximately twice as fast as the previous generation.

Questions and Answers

Does the Hyundai Kona front-wheel drive version have Snow mode?

• No, the dedicated Snow mode is only available on all-wheel drive (AWD) models. Front-wheel drive models feature Normal, Sport, and Eco modes, with Eco being the most suitable for snowy conditions due to its gentler throttle response.

How do I activate Snow mode in my Kona AWD?

• Press the Drive Mode button on the center console repeatedly until Snow mode is selected. On newer models, you can also select it through the touchscreen interface in the driving settings menu.

Can I use Snow mode all winter long, or only when stuck?

• You can use Snow mode whenever driving on snow-covered or icy roads. It’s designed not just for recovery situations but also for maintaining traction during regular winter driving.

Does Snow mode affect fuel economy?

• Yes, Snow mode typically reduces fuel efficiency slightly compared to Eco or Normal modes because it adjusts transmission shift patterns and may engage the AWD system more frequently. However, this trade-off is worthwhile for the improved traction and safety.

What’s the difference between using Snow mode and just driving slowly in Normal mode?

• Snow mode makes specific adjustments to throttle sensitivity, transmission behaviour, and torque distribution that cannot be replicated simply by driving slowly in Normal mode. These adjustments are specifically calibrated for low-traction surfaces.

Is the Kona AWD system always active in Snow mode?

• The AWD system in Snow mode operates dynamically, continuously adjusting torque between front and rear wheels based on traction needs. It doesn’t permanently lock in a 50:50 distribution unless the AWD Lock button is also engaged.

Can I switch between driving modes while the vehicle is moving?

• Yes, you can switch between drive modes, including Snow mode, while the vehicle is in motion. The system will smoothly transition to the new settings.

How does Snow mode work with the Kona hill descent control?

• When Snow mode is active alongside Hill Descent Control, the systems work in cooperation. Snow mode optimizes traction while hill descent control maintains a controlled speed on downhill slopes, providing enhanced stability on snow-covered hills.

Does the Kona Electric have Snow mode?

• The EV doesn’t have the same Snow mode as gas mode. Still, it features a Winter mode that serves a similar purpose while also managing battery temperature and adjusting regenerative braking levels for better control on slippery surfaces.

Are there situations where I shouldn’t use Snow mode?

• Snow mode is specifically for low-traction conditions like snow and ice. On dry pavement, Snow mode can feel sluggish and unresponsive due to its modified throttle mapping. It’s best to return to Normal mode once you’re on cleared roads.

*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*