2023 Hyundai Kona SUV review

The second-generation Hyundai Kona small SUV kicks things up a notch in size, style and equipment

When the Kona was first launched here in 2017, Hyundai had almost double the Australian sales volume of its sister brand Kia, but a steady game of catch-up saw Kia come out on top for the first time in the 2022 annual sales figures.

The second-generation Kona is set to play a key role in stemming the tide for Hyundai, which hopes the SUV will become “the default small car” for its customers.

2023 Hyundai Kona SUV line-up

Two petrol models are available in two trim levels (Kona and Premium), before hybrid and EV variants complete the range later in the year.

The Kona kicks things off at $32,000 and the Premium costs $39,500, with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine developing 110kW and 180Nm and packaged with a continuously variable transmission and FWD.

The turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder starts at $40,000 and produces 146kW and 265Nm, with an eight-speed automatic transmission and AWD. It includes the sporty-looking N Line pack and the Premium variant costs $46,500.

It’s a substantial leap in price from the Kona’s $24,500 entry-model in 2017, but Hyundai says it’s all part of positioning it as a better-equipped and more upmarket vehicle.

For starters, the EV version led the design for the range rather than the other way round, which explains the EV-like front-end design with its horizon lamp and ‘hidden’ grille. It’s a futuristic look and opting for the N Line pack beefs it up with sporty bumpers, side skirts, a rear wing spoiler and dual exhaust tips.

2023 Hyundai Kona SUV design and features

The Kona is bigger across the board than its predecessor and rear passengers will benefit the most from the increase in interior space – including 77mm more leg room and 11mm more head room – where even tall occupants can stretch out and lean comfortably on the fold-down armrest.

Cargo area is 407 litres compared to its predecessor’s 374 litres.

This greater sense of space is also felt behind the wheel, with sweeping and seamless dual digital displays, an uncluttered dashboard and open-type centre console where, in 1.6-litre and Premium variants, the gear shifter has moved to a stalk behind a leather steering wheel.

Other standard nice-to-haves include four USB-C ports (two in the back), a grippy wireless charging pad that works well, smart cruise control, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and dual-zone climate control with rear air vents.

Premium variants get satellite navigation, eight-speaker Bose audio, a surround-view camera and heated front and rear seats.

2023 Hyundai Kona SUV safety and technology

While the Kona has safety technology in spades, it hasn’t yet been ANCAP tested and Hyundai’s driver aids continue to be a source of bugbears.

Jarring audible alerts for imprecise lane keeping or driving a few kilometres above the (incorrectly registered) speed limit are more unsettling than helpful, as is being similarly reprimanded for distracted or drowsy driving at unwarranted times.

The systems can be separately turned off, only to pop up again with every engine restart.

2023 Hyundai Kona SUV performance

Driving the 2.0-litre and 1.6-litre Konas on back roads around the Hunter Valley saw both perform adeptly. Drivers can select from eco, normal and sport modes to sharpen or dial back performance settings, with corresponding mood lighting in the cabin.

Unlike some other CVTs, it’s hard to fault the one in the 2.0-litre, which Hyundai calls an IVT (intelligent variable transmission).

The eight-speed auto in the 1.6-litre turbo feels a little smoother in comparison and its AWD provides more confidence outside the suburbs, while fuel consumption rises to 7.6L/100km.

2023 Hyundai Kona SUV verdict

Whichever engine option buyers select, there’s no question the all-new Hyundai Kona is more sophisticated and eye-catching than ever.

Features

• Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder
• Transmission: CVT
• Power: 110kW
• Torque: 180Nm
• Fuel consumption: 6.6L/100km (claimed)
• ANCAP: Not tested
• Price: From $32,000 (plus ORC)