Hyundai Kona (2023 – current) | Knowledgeable Ranking

Model reviewed: Range overview (including Kona Electric)
Score: 10 / 10
“Hyundai has grown its small SUV sensibly, delivering just enough additional practicality in this model to satisfy those looking for their next family car and to go along with a far more polished cabin feel compared with the original Kona.”
Author: Ellis Hyde
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol automatic N Line
Score: 7 / 10
“Like so many semi-performance editions, the 1.6-litre Hyundai Kona N Line S delivers extra pace but no more enjoyment compared with cheaper versions. Its two biggest problems are the Ford Puma ST, which is a proper small hot baby SUV and cheaper, and the fact that the Kona’s perfectly acceptable 1.0-litre powertrain is also available in this trim level, for a few thousand pounds less. If you’re really sold on the sporty styling pack, we’d advise you to save cash and spec it with the cheaper engine.”
Author: John McIlroy
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Model reviewed: 1.0-litre petrol manual Advance
Score: 9 / 10
“Well equipped, decent to drive and almost reassuringly simple, the entry-level Hyundai Kona petrol is a very capable all-rounder which retains the qualities that earned its pricier stablemates our top award. It should be at the sharp end of your shortlist if you’re in the market for a small family SUV.”
Author: John McIlroy
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid Ultimate
Score: 9 / 10
“The Hyundai Kona isn’t quite as accomplished in hybrid form as the EV version, but it’s still a solid contender in the small SUV sector. Its physical growth in size compared with its predecessor means it’s now big enough to comfortably cover typical family-car duties, and it does so with generous equipment levels, plenty of comfort and superb efficiency – especially on short trips around town. This more affordable Kona is a great SUV.”
Author: Alex Ingram
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Kona excels at what really matters in this class: style, comfort, ease of use and value.” (Illya Verpraet)
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric N Line
Score: 7 / 10
“The new Hyundai Kona was developed as an EV first. So, you might ask, have other powertrain options in the range been compromised? In terms of running costs, the hybrid can’t compete with the 2% BIK company car tax rate of the electric variant, but on a cost-per-mile basis it does work out cheaper thanks to its lower P11D. However, despite being more expensive, overall we’d say the Kona Electric is indeed the more convincing choice.”
Author: Sean Keywood
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid
Score: 6 / 10
“We just couldn’t fully get on with the Hyundai Kona Hybrid. The powertrain is uninspiring, not economical enough, and reluctant to use its electric power to the best effect. The busy ride will also destabilise some families. The good news is that the interior is very usable, and its B-road poise, distinctive looks, capable chassis, and technology on offer mark it out as being nearer the front end of the B-SUV grid.”
Author: Keith Adams
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 10 / 10
“We’ve been truly dazzled by the all-electric version of the new Hyundai Kona, thanks to its tempting mix of comfort refinement, practicality and quality. It has to be said the combustion-engined versions of the car don’t have quite the same level of wow-factor, but if you’re looking for a compact family car that’s stylish, practical, easy to live with and packed with tech, we can’t think of many cars that’ll suit you better than the Kona.”
Author: Ivan Aistrop, Andy Goodwin
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Model reviewed: Range overview
“Although the family resemblance is clear, the new Hyundai Kona is more striking than the old model. The pencil-thin lights and angular wheel arches give the car more presence on the road, and the aerodynamic shape is designed to improve economy and reduce emissions.”
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“The new Hyundai Kona is bigger and better than before, while still devent value for money. You get a lot of equipment for your money, while the Hyundai Kona Hybrid is efficient.”
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Model reviewed: 1.6-litre petrol/electric hybrid
Score: 7.6 / 10
“The Hyundai Kona in 1.6-litre hybrid form is a bit of a mixed bag. The powertrain is uninspiring, it’s not powerful or economical enough, and reluctant to use its electric juice to the best effect. The busy ride will also destabilise some families. The good news is that the interior is very usable, and its B-road poise, distinctive looks, capable chassis, and technology on offer mark it out as being nearer the front end of the B-SUV grid.” (Keith Adams)
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 6.7 / 10
“The second generation version offers more space, greater sophistication and smarter looks. Sounds promising.” (Jonathan Crouch)
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Model reviewed: Range overview (including electric models)
Score: 9 / 10
“Perhaps more impressive even than the Kona Electric is the model at the other end of the scale. Having driven the EV, we sampled a petrol model, and it was just as loveable as the one with no tailpipe emissions.”
Author: Matt Robinson
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Model reviewed: Range overview
Score: 8 / 10
“Hyundai has worked some magic with the Kona’s refresh, turning it into an efficient, spacious and very well equipped small SUV with lots of appeal.”
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