Vehicle Overview
The 2017 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover debuting Hyundai’s new SUV nomenclature. Sharing its platform with the i30, the Kona offers raised ride height, distinctive styling, and a choice of punchy turbocharged or naturally aspirated engines. Slotted below the Tucson, it targets urban adventurers seeking crossover versatility in a compact footprint.
| Segment | Subcompact Crossover SUV (B-segment) |
| Body Style | 5-door SUV |
| Model Year | 2017 (first generation) |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD optional |
Key Specifications
| Specification | 2.0 L MPI Inline-4 | 1.6 L Turbo GDI Inline-4 | 1.6 L CRDi Diesel Inline-4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 175 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 136 hp @ 4,000 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 195 lb-ft @ 1,500–4,500 rpm | 236 lb-ft @ 1,750–2,750 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic | 7-speed dual-clutch DCT | 6-speed manual / 7-DCT auto |
| Drivetrain | FWD; AWD optional | FWD; AWD optional | FWD; AWD optional |
| 0–60 mph (0–96 km/h) | ~9.9 s | ~7.6 s | ~10.2 s |
| Top Speed | 119 mph | 127 mph | 118 mph |
| Fuel Economy (EPA) | 28 mpg city / 32 mpg hwy | 26 mpg city / 29 mpg hwy | 27 mpg city / 30 mpg hwy |
| Cargo Capacity | 19.2 cu ft (544 L) | Same | Same |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 4,165 × 1,800 × 1,550 mm | Same | Same |
Exterior Design
| Bold Styling | Diamond-cut grille flanked by split-lamp LED DRLs over main headlamps. |
| Muscular Proportions | High wheel arches, clamshell hood, and contrasting roof options. |
| Sport Trim | 18″ alloys, black wheel-arch cladding, and roof rails. |
| Color Palette | Eye-catching hues like Acid Yellow, Surf Blue, and Pulse Red. |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
| Urban-Chic Cabin | Two-tone dash, textured trim inserts, and soft-touch upper surfaces. |
| Seating | Cloth on base; leatherette or full leather optional, with heated front seats. |
| Space | Ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers in this class. |
| Storage | 19.2 cu ft boot expandable via 60:40 split rear seats, plus under-floor tray. |
Features & Infotainment
| Infotainment | 7″ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto; 8″ optional navigation display. |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB/AUX ports, and optional wireless charging pad. |
| Audio | Six-speaker system standard; Infinity® premium audio upgrade available. |
| Convenience | Proximity key with push-button start, dual-zone climate control on upper trims. |
Safety & Ratings
| IIHS Top Safety Pick | Good ratings in most crash tests; superior headlights on higher trims. |
Standard ADAS
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (AEB)
Lane Keeping Assist
Driver Attention Warning
| Available | Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Smart Cruise Control. |
Driving Performance
2.0 L MPI: Smooth, linear delivery; ideal for relaxed daily driving.
1.6 L Turbo: Strong mid-range torque, brisk acceleration, and crisp DCT shifts.
1.6 L Diesel: Efficient motorway cruiser with robust low-end pull.
| Ride & Handling | Independent suspension front and rear; composed over uneven surfaces with minimal body roll. |
| Steering | Electric-assist rack offers light city steering and adequate feedback at speed. |
Fuel Efficiency
2.0 L MPI: 28/32 mpg city/highway
1.6 L Turbo: 26/29 mpg
1.6 L Diesel: 27/30 mpg
| Real-World | Owners report within 5 – 10 % of EPA figures in mixed use. |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Boot | 19.2 cu ft under parcel shelf; 45.8 cu ft with seats down—class-leading flexibility. |
| Cabin Storage | Deep door bins, large glovebox, central cubby, and cupholders. |
| Visibility | Elevated driving position and slim pillars aid sightlines. |
| Urban Friend | 10.2 m turning circle and compact footprint for tight streets. |
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 5 years / 60,000 mi bumper-to-bumper; 10 years / 100,000 mi powertrain. |
| Maintenance | 10,000 mi or 12 months intervals; Hyundai’s prepaid maintenance plans available. |
| Roadside Assist | 5 years / unlimited miles. |
Price & Value for Money
Launch MSRP (2017)
2.0 L Base FWD: from $19,500
1.6 L Turbo FWD: from $22,500
1.6 L Diesel FWD: from $21,500
| Value Proposition | Strong standard equipment, bold styling, and outstanding warranty undercut many rivals. |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Power/Torque | Boot (cu ft) | Price (From) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Kona | 2.0 L / 1.6 T / 1.6 D | 147–175 hp / up to 195 lb-ft | 19.2 / 45.8 | $19.5–$22.5 k |
| Ford EcoSport | 1.0 T / 2.0 L | 123–166 hp | 20.9 / 45.9 | $19.9–$23.9 k |
| Nissan Juke | 1.6 L / 1.6 T | 117–190 hp | 10.0 / 35.9 | $20.4–$23.5 k |
| Mazda CX-3 | 2.0 L | 148 hp / 146 lb-ft | 12.4 / 44.5 | $20.6–$22.7 k |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Distinctive, head-turning styling
Excellent warranty and value
Versatile boot with flat-floor load area
Choice of efficient petrol, punchy turbo, or diesel engines
Cons
Rear headroom limited by sloping roofline
DCT sometimes hesitant in stop-start traffic
Firm suspension on Sport trim can feel choppy
AWD variants carry a weight penalty
Overall Rating
4.2 / 5 stars
A compelling subcompact crossover that stands out with bold design, strong warranty backing, and versatile utility.
Final Verdict
The 2017 Hyundai Kona is ideal for urban adventurers and style seekers who want a compact SUV with distinctive looks, versatile cargo space, and Hyundai’s renowned reliability—all at a very attractive price point.
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Pros & cons
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
Final verdict
The Hyundai Kona is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting balanced everyday usability. |
| Body style | Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Hyundai Kona good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.