The Hyundai KONA is a standout in the compact SUV segment.
Hyundai KONA Overview
This futuristic-looking SUV comes in a variety of powertrains. Whether you’re looking at the entry-level petrol version, the hybrid variant or the fully-electric KONA, it's a good value car that stands out on the road.
Popular trims include Advance, N Line, N Line S and Ultimate, which deliver varying levels of aesthetic detailing and performance.
With the latest generation, Hyundai has increased dimensions to give more usable space for families whilst still retaining the city-friendly footprint.
Hyundai KONA Exterior
From the outside, the Hyundai KONA makes an impression. It features a distinctive front end, sharp lines, and design touches that set it apart – including the full-width light bar across the rear on some versions.
Trim-by-trim, you’ll notice the differences. On the Advance you’ll find 17″ alloy wheels (or 18″ on hybrid) and practical roof rails, while the N Line and N Line S bring sportier styling, 18″ (or 19″ on EV) wheels and N-Line design elements.
The Ultimate trim adds premium touches such as full-LED projection headlights, a glass sunroof and distinctive exterior finishes.
The stance is confident, the detailing is strong, and for those who want a little sportiness (especially in the N Line guise) the exterior delivers. The plastic cladding and chunkier design around the wheel arches and lower body give it that SUV character, whilst still being manageable in town and easy to manoeuvre.
Hyundai KONA Interior
Inside the Kona, the cabin balances modern tech with functional design. The dual-screen setup (with a 12.3″ digital instrument cluster alongside a 12.3″ (or large) infotainment screen) gives a premium feel.
Materials and build quality are good, with a proper solid feeling, even if it’s not as premium as more pricey rivals.
Some trim-specific highlights we enjoy are;
Advance: Cloth upholstery, practical front seat adjustment, dual-zone climate control, front and rear parking sensors and keyless entry/start.
N Line: Adds heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, power tailgate (on some versions) and wireless phone charging (on certain models).
N Line/Ultimate: Leather or leather/Alcantara upholstery, luxury features such as Bose premium sound system, sunroof and advanced driver assistance/surround view camera systems.
Hyundai KONA Space
Practicality is a key strength of the KONA. Boot space is generous for the segment - 466 litres in the new model with all seats in place, and up to approximately 1,300 litres with the rear seats folded.
Rear-seat comfort is improved thanks to the increased size of the new generation, head and legroom are competitive for the class.
The shape of the load area is usable, the loading lip is relatively low which helps when loading luggage, and the split-folding rear bench (e.g., 40:20:40) adds flexibility.
Behind the wheel of the Hyundai KONA
The KONA is super easy to drive, it’s particularly at home around town and on those ‘everyday drives’ between school, the office, and the shops.
You get good visibility from its high-up driving position, and handy front and rear parking sensors make squeezing into small parking spaces a lot easier.
It’s quiet on the motorway and offers a pretty comfortable ride with barely any bumps from uneven roads or noisy wind.
Lane-keeping assist and cruise control as standard are also a big help to the driver.
Vertu’s Verdict
The Hyundai KONA is a compelling choice for anyone looking for a stylish, technology-rich and practical compact SUV. At its core, it offers:
Eye-catching design that doesn’t sacrifice usability.
A modern, well-equipped interior with strong value across the trim range.
Genuine space for passengers and luggage, making it suitable for families and day-to-day life.
The KONA punches above its weight in terms of features and practicality, and shows that a small SUV can look great, feel modern and still deliver sensible usability.
- Hyundai