They say variety is the spice of life, and the Hyundai Kona embodies this philosophy. This small SUV is available in petrol, hybrid, and electric versions, catering to a wide range of preferences.
In the past, the Kona was overshadowed by competitors like the Ford Puma, Seat Arona, Skoda Kamiq, and VW T-Roc. However, a significant facelift aims to change that. With new styling, improved efficiency, an all-new interior, and enhanced technology and equipment, the Kona is more competitive than ever. Hyundai has also increased the size and interior space, allowing it to better compete with larger rivals.
Equipment, options and extras
No matter which trim level you choose, the Kona offers impressive standard equipment. Even the entry-level Advance version includes full LED automatic headlights, tinted glass, electrically folding and heated wing mirrors, a 12.3-inch digital driver display, dual-zone climate control, and cruise control. Additionally, it comes with more comfortable 17-inch alloy wheels, provided you don't opt for the hybrid version.
Upgrading to the N Line trim adds sportier styling, 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front and rear seats, and a power tailgate. The N Line S trim builds on this by adding N Line Alcantara interior trim, electric seats, and an upgraded Bose stereo.
The top-spec Ultimate trim sits alongside the N Line S, costing the same but replacing the sportier Alcantara interior with bespoke leather. It also includes a glass sunroof which, unusually, increases headroom in both the front and rear. However, like the N Line S, it is expensive, making it a less compelling option.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
In simple terms, the Kona costs less as a cash purchase than the T-Roc and slightly more than the Puma or Kamiq. The Kona Hybrid has a slightly higher starting price, costing more than any version of the Puma and about the same as the mid-spec T-Roc Style.
However, the Kona is expected to depreciate faster than its rivals, which means the T-Roc might end up costing you less in monthly payments if you’re buying on PCP finance, since resale value affects the monthly cost. Additionally, you could recoup more of your investment with the Puma and T-Roc if you decide to sell after three years.
The official fuel economy of the 1.0T Kona is impressive at 49.9mpg combined, but the hybrid model stands out. With electrical assistance, it achieves over 61mpg and reduces CO2 emissions from 130g/km to 105g/km. This is beneficial if you're considering a company car, as it lowers benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax. For even lower tax bills, consider the Hyundai Kona Electric.
Safety and security
Automatic emergency braking is standard on all versions of the Kona, and it can detect and respond to pedestrians as well as cars. For the Hybrid version in Premium or Ultimate trim, the system also reacts to cyclists.
Lane-keeping assistance and a driver fatigue monitor are standard across the range. However, rear cross traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring are only available in the N Line S or Ultimate trims; these features are not offered as options on the less expensive models.
The Kona received a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2017. While impressive at the time, it's important to note that safety testing criteria have become more stringent since then.
Reliability
For added peace of mind, all versions come with Hyundai’s impressive five-year unlimited mileage warranty as standard. The battery in the hybrid model is covered for an additional three years.
The Car Planet verdict
Hyundai has worked some magic with the Kona’s refresh, transforming it into an efficient, spacious, and well-equipped small SUV with plenty of appeal.
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