2023 Hyndai Kona Review - A Mixed Bag…
Model Reviewed - Hyundai Kona N-Line S 1.6 Petrol - £34,000
Hyundai is a brand that has come a very long way in a relatively short period of time but is the Kona a hit or a miss? Is the new Hyundai Kona better than the outgoing model? does it meet my expectations? find out in this honest car review.
2023 Hyundai Kona Review Video
Introduction:
Hello there, automotive enthusiasts! Welcome to my in-depth review of the recently launched Hyundai Kona, specifically the 1.6 petrol version. With a starting price of £25,725, this model, in particular, comes in at around £34,000. In this review, we'll take a closer look at its design, interior, features, and overall driving experience. So, let's dive right in!
Design:
The first thing that strikes you about the new Hyundai Kona is its fresh approach to design. The front end has received a modern facelift and shares some resemblances with other Hyundai and Kia vehicles. The redesigned look is certainly eye-catching, and it's interesting to see Hyundai exploring new design directions. I'd love to hear your thoughts on it; feel free to share in the comments.
Interior:
Inside the Kona, we find part-leather, part-Alcantara seats that offer excellent comfort and plenty of adjustment options. The lower lumbar support is a nice touch for added driving comfort. However, if I'm being completely honest, I prefer the outgoing model's interior. Some of the materials used in this iteration feel a bit more budget than expected from Hyundai, and the overall layout feels somewhat old-fashioned.
The twin screens in the center console are a highlight, providing an impressive infotainment experience. The media system and other tech features are on par with, if not better than, what you'd find in competitors like VW. However, once you look beyond the screens, the layout starts to feel outdated. The controls, while physical buttons and dials are a welcome sight, give off a somewhat retro vibe, reminiscent of 1990s car stereos. Even the small screen for climate control seems out of place. The material quality also leaves something to be desired, with some scratchy plastics, particularly in areas where you'd expect more tactile materials.
On the bright side, the Kona is loaded with features, including heated and cooled seats, a heated steering wheel, various drive modes, and multiple USB-C connections. The steering wheel itself is a standout, with quality materials and a premium feel, which makes you wonder why they didn't extend this quality to other parts of the interior.
Rear Cabin:
Moving to the rear cabin, you'll find plenty of space. There's ample foot and knee room, along with generous headroom. The seats even come with heating, a pleasant surprise in this class. The center armrest adds to passenger comfort, and you'll find two USB-C ports and storage cubbies for added convenience.
Boot Space:
The new Kona boasts improved boot space compared to its predecessor, offering 466 liters of cargo capacity. It features a convenient underfloor storage area, a flat loading floor, and an easily removable parcel shelf.
Performance and Specifications:
Under the hood, this Kona model sports a 1.6 petrol engine that can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.8 seconds, delivering 198 PS of power. It's worth noting that there are hybrid and electric versions of the Kona on the horizon. In terms of fuel efficiency, it achieves a respectable 44.8 mpg combined (WLTP), which is impressive given its power output.
On the Road: When it comes to driving the Kona, it's essential to mention the ride quality. While it's not the firmest suspension in its class, it's firmer than expected for a slightly raised family hatchback. This might be a sign that Hyundai designed the chassis and suspension with the upcoming Kona N in mind, the high-performance variant. The ride is generally comfortable, but it might not suit those who prefer a softer suspension setup.
The Kona comes equipped with various safety features, including blind spot cameras, which are a valuable addition. However, some driver assistance features, like constant reminders and notifications, can be quite distracting and might need to be adjusted to your preference.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Hyundai Kona 1.6 petrol is undeniably a good car. It competes well with rivals like the Astra and Focus, offering a comfortable and practical package. However, it falls slightly short of the high expectations set by its predecessor. Interior quality and layout could have been improved to match the premium feel of other Hyundai vehicles. That said, if you're looking for a practical car with good fuel efficiency, the Kona is worth considering.
If you're interested in leasing a new Hyundai Kona, be sure to check LeaseLoco Here for the latest leasing options. Your support for the channel by liking and subscribing is greatly appreciated. Stay tuned for more reviews, and until next time, happy driving!