The Hyundai Kona’s second generation is a major step up from its predecessor, offering a bold new look and a raft of improvements that make it one of the most interesting small SUVs on the market. But does it live up to the hype?
First off, the styling grabs you. It’s like RoboCop came for a car ride: angular lines, sharp edges, and a front end that screams ‘look at me.’ This is no subtle update; Hyundai pulled out all the stops.
The Kona’s interior quality stands out too. Gone are the days of plastic overload; now you’ve got soft-touch materials everywhere. The seats are supportive and comfortable for long drives, but there’s a slight compromise in terms of headroom compared to its rivals like the Ford Puma or Volkswagen T-Roc.
Under the hood, your options range from a punchy 1.6-litre petrol engine to a more frugal hybrid setup. The entry-level 1.0-litre unit may feel slow by some standards, but it’s still nimble around town. If you want something peppier, go for the 136bhp version with its slick automatic gearbox.
The ride quality is where the Kona really shines. It eats up rough roads like they’re nothing, making even potholes feel like minor speed bumps. Yet, there’s a bit of body roll at high speeds that might bother some buyers. The steering is light and responsive, giving you confidence in tight spots.
Now for the money side: the Kona isn’t cheap used. Sure, it comes with a range of technology and safety features, but those won’t make up for its premium price tag. Buyers need to ask if they’re getting enough bang for their buck compared to other options out there like the Seat Arona or Skoda Kamiq.
Overall, while the Hyundai Kona 2023 is a solid contender in the small SUV segment, it struggles slightly against more established rivals when it comes to value. It’s a car that demands your attention and respect, but also one that needs to justify its premium price point.
