Hyundai Kona SUV review
“The Hyundai Kona looks more exciting than the brand’s other cars, but delivers sensible, middling competence rather than excellence in any one area”
Pros
- Plenty of standard equipment
- Eye-catching design
- Great warranty
Cons
- Small boot
- Dull to drive
- Expensive high-spec models
The Hyundai Kona is another entrant in the burgeoning small SUV class and goes up against numerous rivals, including the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, Kia Stonic, Peugeot 2008, Citroen C3 Aircross, SEAT Arona and Ford Puma.
It’s a trait of cars in this class to look a little less conventional than their hatchback counterparts and the Kona follows this trend, with a design that’s funkier and slightly more eye-catching than more utilitarian Hyundai models we’re used to. This was taken a step further by the facelifted model, which not only got usual new bumpers, but also a new bonnet and an increase in overall length by 40mm. Along with the arrival of a sporty N Line trim, the changes made the Kona look more chunky and aggressive.
For the moment, there’s just one 118bhp 1.0-litre petrol available in the facelifted car, now boasting mild-hybrid technology to improve efficiency. It can return just under 50mpg. From 2019, Hyundai discontinued diesel versions of the Kona, introducing a hybrid model to appeal to economy-focussed buyers, that we've reviewed separately. There's also an entirely zero-emissions all-electric Kona EV that's very attractive company-car tax rates will be key to the appeal of the, which we've reviewed separately.
Most buyers looking at a Kona should consider the SE Connect or N Line trim levels. The SE Connect specification gets key items such as an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 10.25-inch instrument cluster, along with 17-inch wheels. The N Line trim is a sporty addition to the range, while the Premium model costs around the same but adds heated seats.
Families will be pleased to learn the Kona has a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Not only is the car's structure strong in the event of a crash, but optional (and highly recommended) autonomous emergency braking reduces the likelihood of one happening in the first place. Factor in the Kona's strong five-year/unlimited-mileage warranty and the Kona looks like a safe place to put your money, as well as your family.
However, as sensible as it is, the Hyundai's performance does little to appeal to the heart. On the road, it's competent rather than invigorating to drive. It makes sense that Hyundai has engineered it this way, as most customers don’t want, let alone expect, sporty handling characteristics, but it's a shame it can't come close to matching the Ford Puma's rewarding nature. Perhaps the biggest disappointment, however, is a relatively small boot and cramped rear seats that rather handicap practicality.
Its place in the middle of the pack is confirmed when you look elsewhere, with other cars in the class trumping or at least matching the Kona for interior design, quality and versatility, economy and value-for-money.
