Hyundai KONA Review, What Makes This Compact SUV a Standout?

Right then, let’s talk about the new Hyundai Kona – the small SUV – or more accurately, sub-compact SUV – that’s been quietly turning heads and making life a whole lot easier for people who want something practical, stylish, and packed with clever tech.

You know the type – the crossover that fits just as well in a tight city car park as it does on a long weekend road trip.

So, whether you’re eyeing up the petrol, tempted by the hybrid, or fully ready to plug into the electric life, the Kona’s may have a version for you.

But who is it ideal for, and what are the pros and cons you need to know about before going and buying one?

Well, in this Hyundai Kona review, we will help to answer any question you may have about the 2025 and onwards model and help you understand if this is a car that should be on your buy list or not.

Table of Contents

• Exterior Design and Styling
• Interior Comfort and Features
• Engine, Performance & Driving Dynamics
• Fuel Efficiency and Economy
• What Models Are Available & How Do They Differ?
• Safety Features and Ratings
• Pricing
• Warranty
• Insurance Groups and Emissions
• Is the Hyundai KONA a reliable SUV?
• Does the KONA have AWD options?
• How does the KONA compare to the Tucson or Santa Fe?
• Hyundai KONA 2025 Dimensions
• Compared to other Cars
• So, Is the Hyundai KONA Worth It?
• Test Car
• Related Car News, New Car Reviews & Car Buying Guides
• Who is West Riding?

Exterior Design and Styling

The Hyundai Kona’s always had a bit of a bold look to it, hasn’t it?
But for 2025 and onwards, it’s had a proper refresh – and it looks smarter, stylish, and just that little bit more futuristic thanks to it.

It’s still a small SUV, but it’s got a big presence on the road as it does so, so let’s walk around it and show you what you want to know, shall we?

Front

Up front, the Kona’s face has really sharpened up. The most eye-catching bit is its full-width LED light bar that stretches across the top – making it, in our view, properly space-age and more futuristic as a result.

The actual headlights then sit lower in the bumper now, giving it a layered, high-tech look by doing so as well.

This is then supported well with the grille, which has been smoothed out a bit, too, depending on which version you go for – especially clean-looking on the electric models, we should note as well here.

Front Bumper

The front bumpers had a sporty little update as well, and this is especially noticeable on the N Line trims, which are more aggressive with big air intakes and angular edges that make them look ready to just pounce.

On the other trims, however, it can be a bit more reserved, but it still looks modern and fresh regardless – with nothing too fussy or overdone here in our view.

Side Profile

From the side, the new Kona looks more grown-up than its prior versions as well.

This grown-up status is due to it being slightly longer now than previous generations, which helps give it a better stance and more interior space as a direct result.

The wheel arches are also nicely sculpted – not too chunky, but still giving it that SUV vibe by doing so as well.

All of which is then supported really well, with some nice flush-fitting door handles on some trims, too?

All in all, it looks very slick, especially if you're into that minimal, tidy look that is all the rage these days as well.

Roofline

The roofline then gives it a subtle slope to it now, which adds a bit of sportiness without messing up the rear headroom in doing so.

That said, we liked how it still feels upright enough for a proper SUV, but it’s got that little coupe-like hint that just makes it feel a bit more premium.

Here, you also get some very nice roof rails, which are standard on most trims, too, so it’s ready for your bikes, boxes, or whatever your adventures need here.

Wheels

Its wheel designs also vary across the range – and they’ve all been refreshed as well.

For instance, here you will find everything from sensible 16-inch alloys on the entry trims to big, sporty 18- or even 19-inch wheels on the N Line and Electric variants as well.

This is all while some have that cool aero-style finish for better efficiency, too.

As a result, whichever you pick will fill the arches nicely and give it a planted confident look.

Rear

Then, around the back, the Kona continues its techy theme as well - which we liked.

For example, there’s another LED light bar stretching across the tailgate, matching the front to tie both ends together very nicely.

The rear lights also sit low, just like at the front, and the bumper’s got a clean design with some neat touches here – especially on the sportier trims.

No fake exhausts here either, just tidy styling that’s very modern and up-to-date as a result.

Paint Options

And let’s not forget colours – because Kona’s paint palette is anything but boring.

You’ve got your classy greys and whites, of course, but also some bolder choices like bright yellow, deep red, or even a zesty lime green.

You can even get a contrasting black roof on some trims if you fancy a bit of two-tone flair, making it fun, expressive, and just what you’d want from a crossover that doesn’t blend into the crowd as well.

For instance, here you have:

  
• Abyss Black (Pearl) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Atlas White (Solid) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Serenity White (Pearl) – ICE / N Line
  
• Cyber Grey (Metallic) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Shimmering Silver (Metallic) – ICE / N Line
  
• Ecotronic Grey (Pearl) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Mirage Green (Solid) (No-cost option) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Ultimate Red (Metallic) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Soultronic Orange (Pearl) – HEV
  
• Meta Blue (Pearl) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Denim Blue (Pearl) – ICE / HEV / N Line
  
• Amazon Grey (Metallic) – ICE / N Line

Interior Comfort and Features

Step inside the Hyundai Kona, and the first thing you’ll notice is the tidy, ultra-modern dashboard - well, at least we did.

It’s all clean lines and smooth surfaces – none of that old-school button overload we should add - just make everything nicely driver-focused.

There's also a subtle wrap-around effect here as well that just makes it feel a bit more premium than you’d expect from a small SUV, in our opinion.

This more premium feeling is then supported well with its Ambient lighting options that add a cosy glow in the evenings, too, especially in the higher trims.

Infotainment System and Driver’s Display Cluster

Your tech will also take centre stage here as well.

Standard equipment here, for instance, includes a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, which is very stylish, responsive, and easy to use – whether you’re poking around for a podcast or plotting your route.

Just next to it is another 12.3-inch digital driver’s display cluster as well, giving you crisp graphics for speed, maps, and drive info right in front of you, meaning you can keep your eyes on the road for longer as a result.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also come as standard as well, and you can also customise the display themes to suit your mood and driving style as well - be it enabling Sport Mode, Eco More, or Minimalist Mode (which all change how the car behaves to your inputs for instance.

Column mounted shift-by-wire

You will also get everything you need right at your fingertips. The rotary-type shifter, for instance, is located on the steering column.

Operation is quick, intuitive and precise, and it has been moved from the centre console to behind the steering wheel, which allows more storage in the open console area as well here.

Open centre console with rotational cupholders

The open centre console also features an integrated armrest and plenty of flexible storage spaces.

Here, these clever rotational cupholders can be retracted as well when not in use, giving you the flexibility to neatly store other items. Simply push the button to rotate them in or out.

Wireless charger pad

This then gives you quick and easy access to keeping your phone charged – as there’s a high-speed wireless charger pad in the centre console.

There’s also a 12V power outlet and two USB-C ports (one with data support) for fast charging and universal compatibility here, too, for you and your passengers to use.

Front Seats

The front seats are then supportive and well-padded – which is perfect for both short hops and longer hauls alike.

There are also loads of adjustments that you can make here, too, especially on trims with power seats.

For instance, in terms of space, you get about 1,015mm of headroom and 1,059mm of legroom up front, which is brilliant for taller drivers, especially even with the optional sunroof, which will make you feel airy and comfortable as well if you go for that model.

Rear Seats

In the back, it’s also surprisingly roomy here as well for a sub-compact SUV, in our expert opinion.

Here, for instance, your rear passengers will get around 972mm of headroom and 925mm of legroom – which is enough for adults to sit comfortably on longer journeys really well.

The seats here are also slightly raised, which will give your passengers a better view out and a more natural seating position, too.

All in all, this is great for keeping the kids happy or fitting in a couple of mates without any complaints here.

Rear seat comfort

Your rear-seat passengers will also love the comfort and convenience of rear-seat heating and air-conditioning vents placed back here as well.

For fast and flexible charging, two USB-C ports are also located under the rear seat vents for them to access easily as well.

Comfort Features

Comfort-wise, Hyundai’s ticked all the boxes.

Depending on the trim you then go for - more on that later - you can get heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and even a digital key for keyless access via your smartphone as well - all of which will only help to make your drive that bit more comfortable as well.

The cabin’s also well insulated, too, so it stays peaceful on the move, even at motorway speeds, we should note here.

Space

Looking at space, here the Kona might be a small SUV, but it’s got a clever sense of space to it.

The cabin layout also feels open and practical, with wide-opening doors and a flat floor in the back to make hopping in and out a total breeze.

There’s also decent shoulder room in the front and back as well, so it won't feel cramped, in our opinion, either.

Storage

Storage is also spot-on throughout as well.

For instance, upfront, here you have got a large centre console with sliding cupholders, a wireless charging pad, and a big cubby under the armrest for you to store your items as well.

The door bins here are deep enough for water bottles, and there’s a hand1y shelf below the infotainment screen for your phones and keys, too, which we also liked

In the back, there are seatback pockets, USB-C ports, and more than enough space for your bits and bobs as well.

It’s just one of those cabins where you won’t struggle to stash your everyday clutter.

Technology

The Kona is also loaded with useful tech here as well.

For instance, beyond the dual displays, you’ve got over-the-air updates, connected car services via the Hyundai app, voice controls, and remote start as well.

Some trims here even offer you a head-up display and a premium Bose sound system, which will really step things up for you on long drives, in our view.

Boot

Now, let’s talk boot space.

The new Kona offers you 466 litres of space with the seats up – which is pretty generous for a crossover this size.

Fold the rear seats down, and you get well over 1,300 litres of flat load space as well; there’s a low-loading lip for easy lifting, and the floor is adjustable, too - so you can hide valuables underneath or flatten it out completely.

So, whether it’s weekly shops, pushchairs, or camping gear, the Kona’s boot is up for it.

Engine, Performance & Driving Dynamics

Looking at your engines, there’s quite a range to choose from.

For instance, here you have got a 2.0-litre petrol engine for those who want simple and reliable.

A 1.6-litre turbo petrol engine is also on offer if you fancy a bit more punch as well, and, of course, there are hybrid and fully electric Kona engine options, too.

The hybrid Kona is the most efficient version, returning up to 60mpg – which is brilliant for commuting or school runs without needing to go full EV.

Hyundai Kona Powertrain Specifications

Handling and Ride Quality

On the road, the Kona just feels composed and easy to drive.

For instance, we were impressed with how it corners well for a small SUV, though the ride can be a little firm / jiggly over bumps, especially with the bigger wheels on sportier trims.

Still, it handles city streets and motorways with confidence, and noise insulation has been improved compared to the old model as well.

Fuel Efficiency and Economy

Fuel economy is also one of Kona’s real strong suits that we liked as well, especially if you’re trying to keep running costs down.

Petrol Engines

For instance, if you’re going for one of the petrol models – like the 1.0-litre turbo or the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine – you can expect around 42 to 47mpg in mixed driving conditions.

It's not bad at all for a small SUV that still feels zippy around town in our view.

Hybrid Version

But the real hero here is the hybrid version.

Here, you get a 1.6-litre hybrid, which is the most efficient version, returning up to 60MPG in real-world conditions and even a bit more if you’re gentle with the throttle as well.

Here this combines petrol and electric power so smoothly that you barely notice the engine switching – which is great for city stop-start traffic we found.

Electric Engines & Range

Then, if you’re ready to go fully electric, the Kona Electric is even more cost-efficient to run.

For example, here you get two battery choices to choose from - the 48.6kWh version gives you up to 234 miles of range, while the larger 65.4kWh battery stretches that to around 319 miles (official WLTP figures).

Charging

Charging from 10% to 80% also takes roughly 41 minutes on a 100kW fast charger, which is brilliant for quick top-ups during coffee stops, and around 7 hours on an at-home wall box charger as well.

So whether you’re on petrol, hybrid, or fully electric – there really is a Kona for you that will keep your fuel bills low and mileage high.

What Models Are Available & How Do They Differ?

For your models, here you have 4 to choose from, including:

• Hyundai Kona Advance
• Hyundai Kona N Line
• Hyundai Kona N Line S
• Hyundai Kona Ultimate

How Do They Differ?

They differ in a number of ways, including for instance:

🧾 Hyundai KONA 2025 – Feature Comparison by Trim

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety’s a big deal here, too, we found.

Here, for instance, you get loads of clever driver assistance tech, even on-base trims.

Safety features such as lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control come as standard, alongside blind spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and emergency braking as well, we should note.

Some safety features of note are:

  
• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
  
• Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)
  
• Lane Following Assist (LFA)
  
• Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)
  
• Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
  
• Driver Attention Warning (DAW)
  
• Safe Exit Warning (SEW)
  
• Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go
  
• High Beam Assist (HBA)
  
• Surround View Monitor (SVM)
  
• Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)
  
• Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA)
  
• Parking Distance Warning (PDW) – Front & Rear
  
• Highway Driving Assist (HDA)
  
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
  
• Traction Control System (TCS)
  
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
  
• Vehicle Stability Management (VSM)
  
• Multiple Airbag System (front, side, curtain)

Crash Test Ratings

While official 2025 crash scores are still pending, the outgoing model performed well with top marks from both the IIHS and Euro NCAP as well, and there is no reason not to expect similar safety credentials this time around, in our opinion - especially as it comes wiht more safety tech than ever before as well.

Pricing

The Kona offers good value for money compared to rivals, with prices starting around £26,000 for the SE and more for the fully loaded N Line S model.

Each trim also builds on the last, with the Advance and Ultimate models giving you a great tech and comfort mix here in our view.

Warranty

Hyundai really has built a strong reputation for offering some of the most generous warranty packages in the business, and the 2025 Kona is no exception.

In the UK here, for instance, every new Kona comes with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty as standard.

That means you’re covered no matter how far you drive – whether you're just popping to the shops or clocking up motorway miles every day.

For instance, here, this warranty covers the entire vehicle and includes parts, labour, and roadside assistance, giving you complete peace of mind if a covered part were to fail.

It’s fully transferable, too, so if you sell the car within that five-year period, the warranty goes with the used car – which we think is a lovely bonus, especially to help increase your resale value as well down the line.

Battery Warranty

On top of that, Hyundai also offers an 8-year or 100,000-mile warranty for the high-voltage battery in hybrid and electric Kona models.

That’s especially reassuring if you’re thinking about going electric, as it’s a clear sign Hyundai stands by the durability of its electrified tech in our view.

All in all, it’s a seriously strong aftercare package that shows Hyundai isn’t just selling you a car – they’re making sure you feel looked after for years to come.

Insursuance Groups and Emissions

For your insurance groups and emissions, here you have:

Petrol Models

Kona Hybrid Models

Is the Hyundai KONA a reliable SUV?

Hyundai has a strong reputation for reliability, and the Kona carries that on with a solid track record and long warranty.

For instance, it has won many awards, which also factor in its reliability.

Some awards it has won include:

  
• Best Small SUV Award at the What Car? Awards
  
• Subcompact SUV of the Year Award at the Auto Express Awards
  
• Best Electric Small SUV Award at the Carbuyer Awards
  
• Design of the Year Award at the Red Dot Design Awards
  
• Best Value Electric Car Award at the Auto Trader Awards
  
• Green SUV of the Year Award at the Green Car Journal Awards
  
• Best Hybrid SUV Award at the Top Gear Awards
  
• Best Subcompact Utility Vehicle Award at the Auto123 Awards
  
• Urban Green Car of the Year Award at the Green Car Awards
  
• Best Family SUV Award at the Carwow Awards
  
• Best Electric Vehicle Award at the U.S. News & World Report Awards
  
• Best Compact SUV Award at the UK Car of the Year Awards
  
• Best Car for First-Time Drivers Award at the Edmunds Awards
  
• Best Affordable SUV Award at the Kelley Blue Book Awards
  
• Best Technology Integration Award at the AutoTech Breakthrough Awards
  
• Best Small Crossover Award at the Parkers New Car Awards
  
• Electric Car of the Year Award at the Gear Patrol Awards
  
• Editor’s Choice Award at the Car and Driver Awards
  
• Top Safety Pick Award at the IIHS Awards
  
• Best Compact Electric SUV Award at the Motor1 Star Awards

Does the KONA have AWD options?

AWD is available on some petrol and turbo trims, giving you extra grip in poor weather or on rough roads.

How does the KONA compare to the Tucson or Santa Fe?

Overall, The Kona is smaller and nimbler – making it perfect for city driving – whereas the Hyundai Tucson and Hyundai Santa Fe are more spacious and suited to bigger families or people needing more towing power as well.

For instance, here you have some differences such as:

Hyundai KONA 2025 Dimensions

For your key dimensions, here you are looking at:

Compared to other Cars

When comparing it to key rivals here, the Kona really stands out in our view. For example, here you have:

Ford Puma

Comparing the Hyundai KONA to the Ford Puma, the KONA offers a longer body and more cargo space, making it a more practical choice for families or those needing extra storage.

The Puma, however, is slightly lighter, which may contribute to a more agile driving experience.

Skoda Kamiq

When comparing the Hyundai KONA to the Skoda Kamiq, the KONA stands out with its slightly larger dimensions and more powerful engine options.

The Kamiq, however, offers a more compact size, which can be advantageous for city driving and parking, for instance.

Volkswagen T-Roc

The Hyundai KONA and Volkswagen T-Roc are both strong contenders in the compact SUV segment.

Here, the KONA offers better fuel economy and a more affordable price point, while the T-Roc gives you a higher-quality interior and more agile handling.

Volkswagen T-Cross

Comparing the Hyundai KONA to the Volkswagen T-Cross, the KONA offers you more interior space and a larger boot, making it a better choice for families or those needing extra cargo capacity.

The T-Cross, being more compact, though, is easier to manoeuvre in tight urban spaces.

SEAT Arona

The Hyundai KONA and SEAT Arona both offer compelling features in the compact SUV market.

The KONA, though, provides you with a more spacious interior and a higher boot capacity, while the Arona is lighter and may offer better fuel efficiency.

So, Is the Hyundai KONA Worth It?

As you can see, the Hyundai Kona ticks a lot of boxes.

It’s clearly stylish, practical, well-equipped, and efficient.

Then, given all the kit, safety, and efficiency on offer, if you want a small SUV that feels big on value and features, this one’s hard to beat, in our opinion.

Test Car

Fancy experiencing this car firsthand to see if it is the perfect car for you? Then why not pop down to one of our local Hyundai dealerships and book a road test drive of some of the latest Hyundai test cars for yourself - our team is here to help you.

Alternatively, why not ask our team to send you a video review of the Hyundai Tucson that you are interested in buying or any other hybrid cars that you are interested in, and they can give you a walkaround of the car on the lot that you are personally interested in.

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Who is West Riding?

Here at West Riding Automotive, we were established in 2003 as a family-run business with a focus on providing you with excellent customer service, competitive car leasing deals and used and new car deals overall. As a result, our automotive company is FCA (Financial Conduct Authority) accredited and regulated, and we operate dealerships in Lancashire and Greater Manchester, as well as specialising in new and used Hyundai vehicles. We can also offer you servicing, MOT, and repair options. We are also well known for our commitment to customer service, as shown by our high ratings on Trustpilot as well. Lastly, we have also built strong relationships with major brands like Toyota, Lexus, and MG to give you a lot of options to choose from.