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Hyundai Kona (2017 to 2023)

NOTICE: This car is still assessed using our previous Expert Rating Index calculations. We are currently rolling out a completely overhauled Expert Rating Index in early 2024, so this vehicle will be updated shortly.

Expert Rating

Hyundai Kona (2017 to 2023)

Not a current model

    Summary


    The Hyundai Kona was a small SUV/crossover that was launched in 2017, sharing its platform with the Kia Stonic. It was updated for 2021, with improved connectivity and a new sporty-look trim dubbed N-Line. It was removed from sale in 2023, making way for a new version of the Kona.

    The Kona was available with a choice of petrol and hybrid power up until it was replaced – diesel versions were axed in 2019. Hyundai also sold the Kona Electric which is covered in a separate report as it is substantially different to this regular version. A Kona N performance model joined the range in mid 2021.

    The Hyundai Kona received mostly average to good reviews from the UK motoring media, with very consistent scores from different sources. Its equipment, especially the infotainment, and its five-year warranty comes in for praise, but the car is criticised for a dull interior and uninspiring drive.

    Reviewers pointed out that the car now faces some high-quality rivals, such as the Ford Puma and Skoda Kamiq. “The latest revisions have made it a bit more competitive, but it’s still not the most practical choice – nor the best drive,” comments Heycar.

    The Hybrid introduced as part of the 2021 update did not greatly impress either, Auto Express pointing out that it’s not a lot more eco-friendly than the 1.0-litre petrol version but cost a lot more to buy. Thankfully the hybrid system did not take up boot space because at 374 litres it’s pretty modest compared to rivals.

    Even the Kona’s updated looks didn’t chime with all – “surely the most outrageously styled Hyundai the world has ever seen,” commented Top Gear.

    No longer on sale, the Hyundai Kona has an Expert Rating of 59% based on 31 reviews. That puts it in the bottom half of the small SUV segment, while its electric sibling sits almost at the top of the class.

    In December 2022, Hyundai announced an all-new Kona range, which is expected to arrive in the UK by Summer 2023. It will be based on the new Kia Niro range, and will be slightly larger to provide more room for rear-seat passengers.

    Kona highlights

    • Reasonable value for money
    • Good specification
    • Quality infotainment
    • Long warranty

    Kona lowlights

    • Dull drive
    • Uninspiring interior finish
    • Hybrid pricey for modest green gains
    • Marmite styling

    Key specifications


    Body style: Small SUV/crossover
    Engines: petrol, hybrid
    Price when new: From £21,625 on-road

    Launched: Autumn 2017
    Last updated: Winter 2020/21
    Replaced: Summer 2023


    Media reviews


    Reviews, road test and comparisons from across the UK automotive media. Click any of the boxes to view.

    The Car Expert

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    Auto Express

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    Auto Trader

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    Autocar

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    Car

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    Car Keys

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    Carbuyer

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    Carwow

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    Green Car Guide

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    Heycar

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    Honest John

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    Motors.co.uk

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    Parkers

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    The Sun

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    The Telegraph

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    Top Gear

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    What Car?

    +

    Safety rating


    Independent crash test and safety ratings from Euro NCAP

    Overall score: 5 stars
    Date tested: December 2017
    Read the full Euro NCAP review

    Adult protection: 87%
    Child protection: 85%
    Vulnerable road users: 62%
    Safety assist: 60%

    Eco rating


    Independent emissions and efficiency ratings from Green NCAP

    No eco rating

    As of August 2023, the Hyundai Kona has not been lab tested by Green NCAP.

    Reliability rating

    MotorEasy logo 600x167

    As of August 2023, we don’t have enough reliability data on the Hyundai Kona to generate a reliability rating.

    The Car Expert’s reliability information is provided exclusively for us using extended warranty data from our partner, MotorEasy. As soon as MotorEasy has sufficient data on the Kona, we’ll publish the score here.

    Running cost rating

    Clear Vehicle Data logo close crop

    Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively for The Car Expert by Clear Vehicle Data

    Fuel consumptionAverageScoreVariationScore
    Petrol models45 mpgC34 – 47 mpgC – D
    Hybrid models56 mpgB52 – 58 mpgB – B
    CO₂ outputAverageScoreVariationScore
    Petrol models142 g/kmB135 – 189 g/kmA – C
    Hybrid models116 g/kmA112 – 123 g/kmA – A
    Insurance groupAverageScoreVariationScore
    All models11A8 – 19A – A

    The Hyundai Kona is cheaper to run in the long run if you opt for a hybrid model, according to data exclusively provided by our commercial partner Clear Vehicle Data.

    With an average fuel consumption of 56 mpg, hybrid models offer over 10 mpg more on average than petrol models. Regardless of the model chosen, insurance premiums should be pretty affordable.

    Similar cars


    If you’re looking at the Hyundai Kona, you might also be interested in these alternatives

    Citroën C3 Aircross | Dacia Duster | Fiat 500X | Ford EcoSport | Ford Puma | Honda HR-V | Hyundai Bayon | Jeep Renegade | Kia Stonic | Mazda CX-3 | MG ZS | Mitsubishi ASX | Nissan Juke | Peugeot 2008 | Renault Captur | SEAT Arona | Skoda Kamiq | SsangYong Tivoli | Suzuki Vitara | Toyota Yaris Cross | Vauxhall Crossland | Vauxhall Mokka | Volkswagen T-Cross | Volkswagen T-Roc

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    The Car Expert has the ultimate ranking of the best and worst new cars on sale, based on scores from 30 of the top UK motoring websites. We'll be adding more cars and more lists all the time, so keep checking back for the latest results.

    The Hyundai Kona has received mostly average to good reviews from the UK motoring media, with very consistent scores from different sources. It has received praise for its value for money and decent specification, but criticism for its driving dynamics and overall quality compared to rivals.Hyundai Kona (2017 to 2023)