Hyundai is filling the gap in its Kona small SUV line-up by adding a hybrid model.
The newcomer, in showrooms from August, will join the existing Kona petrol and full-electric models that have now been on sale for more than a year.
Alongside the full hybrid powertrain, the new Kona version also offers connectivity, active safety and infotainment upgrades.
The hybrid combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine of 105hp with a 32kW (43.5hp) electric motor. Combined output is 141hp with 265Nm of torque. Hyundai quotes 0-62mph times of 11.2 seconds for the Kona Hybrid on 16-inch wheels, with combined cycle fuel economy of 72.4mpg and CO2 emissions of 90g/km.
Electronic upgrades include the Blue Link connectivity system that allows such niceties as locking/unlocking the car remotely using a smartphone app. Standard versions include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while an optional Audio Video Navigation (AVN) system displays information across a ten-inch screen and includes a five-year subscription to Hyundai live, offering weather, traffic and parking updates and other services.
Cars with AVN also get the ECO-Driving Assist System that reads the route programmed into the navigation to advise the driver when deceleration is imminent (such as approaching junctions or turns) to allow them to coast ahead of the deceleration and save fuel.
Also optional are a head-up display projecting information onto the base of the windscreen and a wireless phone charging pad.
All Kona Hybrid variants are expected to be sold with the Hyundai SmartSense technology package that includes a front collision warning and avoidance system with pedestrian and cyclist detection. Full autonomous emergency braking is part of the optional Smart Cruise Control package that will also in slow-moving traffic brake the car to a standstill.
Prices of the Kona Hybrid are yet to be announced.
