Hyundai launches Kona SUV 14 | 06 | 2017

    THIS IS THE Hyundai Kona, the Korean manufacturer’s rival to the Nissan Juke and new Citroen C3 Aircross, which will go on-sale at Scottish dealerships in November. Prices are expected to start around £15,000.

    Targeted at young buyers, the Kona boasts a number of styling lines which aim to set it apart from rival small SUVs.

    One of the most notable features is the large, cascading grille. This is flanked by twin headlights, and the Kona gains a purposeful like thanks to its black body cladding.

    It also looks powerful and squat, thanks to its short rear overhang and a low roofline. Standard-fit roof bars and contrasting accents on the exterior further enhance the Kona’s SUV stance.

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    In contrast, the design of the interior of the Kona pulls back slightly with many recognisable features from the latest i30. That said, the cabin does include lashes of bright plastic trim to match the exterior paint.

    The main feature in the dashboard is the optional 8in touchscreen satnav, which has been carried over from the i30. Cleverly, the satnav comes with free map updates for 10 years.

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    In standard trim, the Kona gets a 7in screen which works with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, meaning you can use your phone and other apps in any Kona.

    The Kona — which measures 1800mm wide, 1550mm high and 4165mm long — is slightly longer and wider than the Juke. Interestingly, it’s not quite as tall as the Nissan.

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    It does though boast along wheelbase, which means there’s more space inside for passengers and luggage. The boot can carry 361-litres compared to the Juke’s 544-litres.

    At launch in November only two petrol engine will be available. The entry-level 118bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo is lifted straight from the i30 and is mated to a six-speed manual. Available only in front-wheel drive, it will return 53.3mpg at the pumps.

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    There’s also a 175bhp 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto box and four-wheel drive. Capable of 0-62mph in 7.9s, Hyundai says it will return 38.7mpg.

    A 1.6-litre diesel — delivering either 113bhp or 131bhp — will join the range soon after launch. The 113bhp will be manual and front-drive only, while the larger diesel gets the auto ‘box and can be ordered with front or all-wheel drive.

    Related: 2017 Hyundai i10 starts at £9250

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    Jim McGill

     

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