Hyundai Kona 2017 Review: Specs, Driving Impressions

The 2017 Hyundai Kona burst onto the scene as Hyundai’s entry into the fiercely competitive compact SUV market, challenging established players with its daring aesthetics and feature-rich lineup. Built on a modified platform shared with the i30 hatchback, this model promised a blend of urban agility and family-friendly utility, complete with a raised ride height of 170mm for better visibility and versatility. Early drives revealed a vehicle that prioritizes driver engagement without sacrificing everyday comfort, making it a compelling choice for buyers seeking style and substance.

Eye-Catching Exterior Design

Hyundai took a risk with the Kona’s exterior, opting for aggressive lines and chunky proportions that set it apart from the crowd. The front fascia features split headlights with LED daytime running lights, giving it a modern, predatory stance. Flared wheel arches and a sculpted tailgate emphasize its SUV credentials, while available 18-inch alloys add a premium touch—though testers noted smaller 17-inch wheels better suit rough roads.

• Bold cascading grille anchors the face, flanked by slim upper and larger lower headlights.
• High ground clearance (170mm) aids light off-road capability and easy entry/exit.
• Compact dimensions (length around 4.16m) make it nimble in city parking.

Colors range from vibrant oranges to sophisticated blues, enhancing its youthful appeal. Compared to boxier rivals, the Kona’s design is polarizing yet memorable, drawing compliments for its ‘wow-factor’.

Interior Comfort and Tech Highlights

Step inside, and the Kona welcomes with an airy cabin boasting good headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers. Seats are elevated for a commanding view, and materials feel solid, with soft-touch surfaces on higher trims. A small digital display between analog dials delivers key trip data at a glance.

The star is the responsive touchscreen infotainment system, intuitive to navigate with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on most models. Mid-spec versions include sat-nav, while all offer reversing cameras and tyre pressure monitoring.

Build quality impresses, though lower plastics show some scratchiness. Rear space suits adults for short trips, but the 361-litre boot expands to 1,143 litres with seats folded—adequate but trailing rivals like the Nissan Juke.

Engine Options and Performance

Powertrains cater to varied needs. The entry-level 2.0-litre four-cylinder (around 110kW) pairs with a six-speed auto, delivering smooth acceleration despite modest paper figures. It’s refined on highways, with a claimed thirst of 7.1L/100km.

The punchier 1.6-litre turbo (130kW) in top models like Highlander offers AWD, excelling on twisty roads with locked 50:50 torque split for slippery conditions. Reviewers praised its ‘lusty’ pull and progressive throttle, feeling quicker than specs suggest.

• 1.6T: 0-100km/h in under 9 seconds, top speed ~200km/h.
• Efficient six-speed gearbox keeps revs low at cruise.
• AWD variants handle dirt tracks confidently.

Fuel economy hovers at 6.7-7.1L/100km combined, competitive for the class.

Driving Dynamics and Ride Quality

The Kona shines behind the wheel, with responsive steering that’s weighty and precise, though some wished for more feedback. Suspension tuning, especially Australian-specific setups, minimizes body roll in corners while absorbing potholes effectively on 17-inch wheels. Grip is strong, even in wet conditions, thanks to capable traction control.

Brakes are progressive, and the chassis—derived from the i30—feels planted. Top turbo models add sportiness without harshness, ideal for mixed urban and rural driving. Ground clearance handles UK-style bumpy roads well.

Safety and Reliability Features

Hyundai’s Smart Sense suite includes autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring on higher trims. All models feature six airbags, stability control, and LED lights. The five-year unlimited-km warranty underscores confidence in reliability.

A five-star ANCAP/Euro NCAP rating was anticipated, bolstered by standard tech like forward collision warning.

Pricing, Value, and Rivals Comparison

Starting at ~$24,500 for base Active, topping at $36,000 for Elite AWD, the Kona undercuts some foes while packing generous kit. It targets Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, SEAT Arona, and Citroen C3 Aircross.

The Kona edges on warranty and tech, but loses on practicality. Mid-trims offer best value, avoiding ride-compromising big wheels.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

• Pros: Striking design, engaging handling, loaded spec list, long warranty, intuitive tech.
• Cons: Smaller boot, polarizing looks, firmer ride on 18s, average rear space.

Real-World Ownership Insights

Owners appreciate the Kona’s low running costs, with 50-litre tank and efficient motors suiting commutes. Servicing intervals are 12 months/10,000km, and resale holds steady thanks to Hyundai’s rep. It’s family-viable for small groups, though larger loads favor rivals.

For urban dwellers, its maneuverability and visibility excel; enthusiasts enjoy the turbo’s pep.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2017 Hyundai Kona good for families?

Yes, it seats five comfortably with ISOFIX points, but boot space (361L) suits lighter loads better than some competitors.

How does the Kona handle off-road?

AWD models with 170mm clearance tackle gravel and mud confidently via lockable torque split, but it’s no hardcore 4×4.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 6.7-7.1L/100km combined; the 2.0L is smoother for highways, turbo punchier in town.

Any common issues with the 2017 Kona?

Early models had minor infotainment glitches, fixed via updates; overall reliability is strong under the 5-year warranty.

How does it compare to the Hyundai Venue?

Kona is larger, more powerful, with better tech; Venue is subcompact and cheaper.

Verdict: Worth Buying in 2017?

The 2017 Kona redefined Hyundai’s SUV game with flair, fun, and value. Opt for mid-spec petrol autos for the sweet spot—stylish, safe, and satisfying to drive. It won’t win luggage tests, but for dynamic daily motoring, it’s a standout.