While not quite as popular as the brand's Tucson or Creta SUV's, the quirky Kona has found favour with numerous South African's looking for a distinctively styled midsized crossover.
It's recently received a comprehensive facelift, debuting in South Africa to fend off the attack from VW's wildly popular T-Roc and Audi's elegant Q2. Now priced between R449 900 and R579 900, it's the perky 1.0-litre turbopetrol that sees itself being cut from the range.
Still being offered is the base-model 2.0-litre, naturally aspirated derivative. Now mated exclusively to an eight-step CVT transmission, the base-model is also only available in the Executive Line.
New to the range is the powerful 1.6-litre turbopetrol, with 146 kW and 265 Nm on tap. Unlike the 2.0-litre, the range-topping turbo model receives a dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox. Both send their power to the front wheels, though.
The Executive trim level remains, available with both engine options. As standard, the Kona Executive receives automatic climate control, automatic headlamps, rear parking sensors (and a reverse camera) as well as cruise control. Naturally, a suite of safety features are made available, with ABS, ESP and an array of airbags making the cut.
Available only in conjunction with the 146 kW 1.6-litre is the new N-Line. Not only do N-Line models receive sportier exterior styling - 18-inch alloys, black-painted roof and more aggressive styling - but more luxurious innards, too.
At R579 900, it's currently the most expensive Kona available in SA. But to make up for that, Hyundai has packed it with leather seats (with electric adjustment for the driver), adaptive cruise control and keyless-go. It builds on the safety theme, with accident avoidance systems, like Lane-Keep Assist, Forward Collision and Blind Spot Collision Avoidance, all standard.
The brand has also said that a performance N model will arrive in SA in 2022, serving as the flagship, and ready to duel with the VW T-Roc R (if it ever gets here).
Pricing:
2,0 Executive – R449 900
1,6 TGDI Executive – R499 900
1,6 TGDI N Line – R579 900
Also worth a look: the Hyundai Creta: Matte Edition Headlines 2024 Refresh and the IONIQ 5 N Wins TopGear's 2023 Car of the Year.
FAQ
Q: What does the Hyundai Kona cost in South Africa?
The facelifted Hyundai Kona is priced between R449,900 for the base 2.0-litre Executive and R579,900 for the range-topping 1.6-litre N-Line variant.
Q: What engines are available in the new Hyundai Kona?
The updated Kona offers two engine options: a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated unit with CVT transmission and a powerful 1.6-litre turbopetrol producing 146 kW and 265 Nm paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Q: Is the Hyundai Kona worth buying over the VW T-Roc?
The Kona offers distinctive styling and competitive pricing starting at R449,900, making it a solid alternative to the T-Roc, especially if you want something that doesn't blend into every shopping centre car park.
Q: What's the difference between Kona Executive and N-Line models?
The N-Line adds sportier exterior styling with 18-inch alloys, leather seats with electric adjustment, adaptive cruise control, and advanced safety systems, but it's only available with the 1.6-litre turbo engine at R579,900.
Q: Will there be a Hyundai Kona N performance model in South Africa?
Yes, Hyundai has confirmed that a full-fat Kona N performance model will arrive in South Africa during 2022 as the range flagship, ready to take on the VW T-Roc R.
Should You Buy It?
The facelifted Hyundai Kona is definitely worth considering if you're after a distinctive crossover that won't break the bank. At R449,900, the base 2.0-litre Executive offers solid value with decent kit including climate control, cruise control, and a reverse camera. However, the real sweet spot is the 1.6-litre turbopetrol with its punchy 146 kW output and proper dual-clutch gearbox. The N-Line at R579,900 pushes into premium territory but delivers the goods with leather, adaptive cruise, and aggressive styling that actually backs up the sporty pretensions. Yes, you should buy the Kona if you want something more interesting than the usual crossover suspects, just avoid the CVT-equipped base model if you enjoy driving.
