Hyundai Kona N Line S Hybrid (2023) Review

WHEN it comes to new models Hyundai isn’t in the habit of doing a light makeover.

One look at the new Kona speaks volumes of a manufacturer at the cutting edge of design. Ironically, the old Kona remains a smart little SUV, which will help retain its appeal and keep up the residual values. But one glance at its successor tells you this is a new model from the ground up.

Viewing it from the front prompts a double-take. Gone have the traditional ‘two eyes, one mouth’ aesthetic that once left cars sporting a human face.

Kona gets a seemingly blind face with the lights dropped to the corners and the nose is then dominated by a full-width LED strip-light. It is certainly very different and striking.

The tail is similarly arresting. The taillights drop to the corners and a red LED strip travels across the rear. Front and rear really do grab the attention during the day and at night when you wonder with what you are sharing the road.

Trick and trendy on the outside, this innovative design stretches to the interior where it is centred on the huge touchscreen TFT dashboard. Virtual clocks merge into the touchscreen infotainment centre but, thankfully, primary functions are on old fashioned buttons and there are even a couple of knobs to keep us in touch with the past.

Kona’s interior is spacious, well-equipped, easy to live with and very comfortable. It leaves you appreciating just how much thought has gone into its design and this translates into very easy motoring indeed, particularly over long distances, which leave you feeling relaxed and wanting more.

Test car is the Kona Hybrid in sporty N Line S trim. That means it is fitted with a super-efficient 1.6 litre petrol engine backed with an electric motor. There’s a combined output of 141PS which comes through a dual clutch automatic gearbox.

When it runs on electric it is completely silent and when extra power is needed the revs go straight to the powerband. It all works well to provide sufficient power for climbs and overtakes while on the straight stuff it cruises happily while merely sipping at the fuel.

Instantly, new Kona feels bigger on the road and that’s because it is. Compared to the previous generation it is now 145mm longer, with a wheelbase which is 60mm greater. It is also 25mm wider and 20mm taller. That and the new looks and interior make Kona feel completely new.

The list of standard technology is eye-watering which is great for those who love it and a dip-into-it-if-you-fancy extra for those who aren’t fussed.

So the dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens are backed by full over-the-air updates and something called a Connected Car Navigation Cockpit. There is a standard navigation and infotainment system comprising Bluetooth, DAB radio, LIVE services, MapCare, Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, linked to steering wheel controls and front and rear USB C charging points.

Kona is also available with a digital key that can use a compatible device to lock, unlock and start the vehicle – don’t worry they claim to come with a high level of security.

The SUV also comes with so many driver aids that you will barely need to drive yourself at all. You do get the feeling that we humans are fast becoming superfluous to the driving of modern cars.

But not just yet, thankfully, because the new top-to-toe makeover has made Kona even better to drive.

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