Hyundai Kona SUV (2017 - 2023) Review
Expert review with performance specs, running costs, and finance options.
With a stylish design, competitive pricing starting from £21,000, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating (87% for adult occupants), the Hyundai Kona remains a top contender in the electric vehicle market. This retro icon reimagined boasts advanced tech and efficiency, making it a commuter's dream.
Pros
Impressive electric range in the EV model
Stylish, modern design with retro influences
Excellent driving dynamics and handling
Cons
Limited rear visibility
Not as spacious as some rivals
Touchscreen can be distracting when driving
Experts Review
Explore what top automotive experts from AutoCar, Parkers & WhatCar say about the Hyundai Kona SUV (2017 - 2023). Get key insights on performance, design, practicality, and overall verdict from trusted review sources.
| Source | Expert Summary |
|---|---|
| AutoCar | The Kona stands out with its bold styling and modern interior. Reviewers highlight its high-quality materials and intuitive infotainment system. While the handling is decent, it doesn’t quite match the agility of competitors, and the engine noise can be intrusive under acceleration. Read about the Hyundai Kona design and styling on AutoCar. |
| Parkers | The Hyundai Kona impresses with its stylish design, spacious interior, and a good mix of petrol and electric options. Owners appreciate the comfortable ride quality and user-friendly tech features. However, some note that the performance could be zippier and the boot space is slightly smaller than rivals. Read owner reviews of the Hyundai Kona on Parkers. |
| WhatCar | The Kona is praised for its excellent reliability ratings and overall build quality. Owners report few serious issues, but some have mentioned minor tech glitches. Overall, it remains a solid choice for buyers prioritising dependability in a compact SUV. |
What’s New & Why It Matters
The Hyundai Kona SUV, particularly from the 2017 to 2023 range, embodies a chic blend of modern functionality and retro styling, reminiscent of classic vehicles. The recent introduction of the electric variant adds to its appeal as a 'retro icon reborn', making it a striking choice for eco-conscious consumers seeking contemporary automotive advancements. This model stands out in the increasingly competitive compact SUV market, offering a unique balance of performance, design, and tech features. The Kona’s emissions-free option further solidifies its position as an environmentally friendly alternative without compromising on the thrilling driving experience enthusiasts desire. As automotive technology evolves, the Hyundai Kona's commitment to innovation and sustainability makes it a noteworthy contender for those considering an upgrade.
Driving Impressions
B Roads: When venturing onto winding B-roads, the Hyundai Kona SUV truly shines, demonstrating its agile capability and dynamic performance. The well-balanced chassis promotes spirited cornering while maintaining comfort. Enthusiasts will appreciate the precise steering feedback, which instills confidence in the vehicle’s handling. Further enhancements in the Kona's suspension system ensure a controlled ride even on tighter stretches of the road. The electric variant also benefits from instant torque delivery, resulting in an engaging driving experience that appeals to a wide array of drivers.
Motorway: On the motorway, the Hyundai Kona SUV showcases its prowess with remarkable stability and confidence at higher speeds. The powerful engine options deliver impressive acceleration, while adaptive cruise control contributes to an effortless driving experience over longer distances. The smooth ride is complemented by well-tuned suspension, effectively absorbing road imperfections. In addition, the hybrid and electric variants offer reduced emissions without sacrificing performance, making the Kona an attractive choice for both eco-conscious drivers and those seeking a spirited tourer.
Town: Navigating through urban environments in the Hyundai Kona SUV is a delight. Its compact size and agile handling make it exceptionally manoeuvrable in tight spaces, while the elevated seating position provides excellent visibility. The responsive steering coupled with its intuitive infotainment system enhances the overall driving experience, ensuring that city commutes are both enjoyable and efficient. Furthermore, the Kona’s noise insulation keeps the cabin serene, allowing occupants to engage in conversations or enjoy their favourite music while exploring the metropolitan landscape.
Ownership Costs
Running Costs: When considering ownership of the Hyundai Kona SUV, particularly the electric variant, running costs are remarkably competitive for the segment. Owners can expect lower maintenance expenses compared to traditional petrol or diesel models. Moreover, the vehicle's fuel efficiency contributes to significant savings, especially in urban driving conditions.
Charging/Fuel: For the electric version, charging is straightforward with multiple options available, including home charging stations and public fast-charging points strategically located throughout urban and rural areas. Hyundai's commitment to providing access to charging infrastructure makes owning an electric Kona a hassle-free experience. For non-electric models, fuel consumption remains efficient, ensuring drivers can benefit from economical mileage.
Finance: Financing options for the Hyundai Kona SUV are varied, catering to different customer preferences. Flexible leasing agreements, traditional loans, and attractive purchase options make it simple for prospective buyers to enter the compact SUV market. Additionally, various incentives for electric vehicle purchasers can further lessen the overall investment.
History Overview
Purpose: The Hyundai Kona was designed to meet the demands of urban consumers seeking style, practicality, and advanced technology in a compact SUV.
Evolution: Since its introduction in 2017, the Kona has evolved to include hybrid and electric variants, catering to the growing market for eco-friendly vehicles while maintaining its sporty and versatile character.
Launch of the original Hyundai Kona SUV.
Introduction of hybrid and electric variants.
Facelift and updates to tech features.
Recognition as a leading choice in the compact SUV segment.
Ratings
performance
4.0
handling
3.8
behind the wheel
4.0
comfort
3.5
running costs
3.2
green credentials
3.1
reliability
4.2
equipment
4.0
safety
4.5
practicality
3.6
Verdict
In conclusion, the Hyundai Kona SUV successfully marries classic styling with cutting-edge technology, particularly with its 'retro icon reborn' electric variant. This vehicle excels in versatility, from city driving to lengthy excursions, appealing to a diverse audience. Whether prioritising sustainability or performance, the Kona stands out as an exemplary choice in the compact SUV segment. Buyers seeking an engaging driving experience and comprehensive feature set will find the Hyundai Kona to be an excellent investment.