The Kona also features the latest version of Hyundai’s infotainment system. The brand’s software was already one of the most intuitive and user-friendly set-ups we had tested, but the new system in the Kona is even better. For instance, the home page is now made up of large blocks, so finding the right menu is straightforward, but you can always use the physical shortcut buttons below the screen if you want. Alternatively, you can also use your favourite music and navigation apps via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which are standard-fit but not wireless.
The second-gen Hyundai Kona has grown, finally making it practical enough to be considered as a family car
The original Hyundai Kona was not the most practical of small SUVs, but Hyundai listened to feedback from owners who requested more cabin space and a larger load bay. As a result, the second-generation model is significantly larger than its predecessor, having a longer wheelbase and considerably more space inside for luggage and passengers alike.
Charging everyone’s devices should be a doddle, because there are two USB-C ports in the rear, another two up front along with a 12V socket, with some models also featuring a wireless charging pad. We also like that there’s plenty of storage spaces dotted around the cabin, although we wish a couple more were covered in some way to help keep valuables out of sight.
Size
The Kona has grown in size for its second generation. The original Kona measured 4,205mm long, 1,800mm wide (2,070mm including door mirrors) and up to 1,568mm tall, while the Mk2 Kona is 4,350mm long, 1,825mm wide (2,100mm including door mirrors) and 1,585mm tall. The Kona’s wheelbase has also been stretched from 2,600mm to 2,660mm on the new model.
Leg room, head room & passenger space
The previous Kona offered about as much space inside as a supermini, but the new car’s cabin is far more spacious, offering ample room for five people. In fact, we found that the Kona now offers about the same knee and headroom as its bigger brother, the Hyundai Tucson mid-size SUV. The Tucson’s cabin is a little wider, which makes it better for carrying three adults in the rear, but otherwise there’s not much separating the two.
