The Hyundai Kona is one of Australia’s most popular compact SUVs and for good reason. Its wide range of models caters to different budgets and lifestyles, from petrol engines to hybrid and fully electric variants. The second-generation Kona, introduced in 2023, has grown in size, making it a more practical option for families than its smaller predecessor. On top of that, Hyundai now offers a seven-year warranty, adding extra peace of mind for buyers (conditions apply).

Whether you’re looking for an efficient city runabout or a zero-emissions EV, the Kona offers options that cover almost every need.

Book a test drive to experience the Kona for yourself.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Compact yet family-friendly size
• Multiple powertrains across a broad price range
• Comfortable ride and confident handling

Cons:

• Kona EV is expensive upfront
• Some driver-assistance alerts can be intrusive
• Lower trims have noticeable cost-saving touches

Pricing and Equipment (2025 Hyundai Kona)

The 2025 Hyundai Kona line-up includes 15 models when combining trims and powertrains. Key highlights:

• Trims: Kona, Elite, Premium, with N-Line packages for Elite and Premium.
• Powertrains: 2.0-litre petrol, 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid, and full EV.
• Pricing: Starts at $32,950 for the entry-level 2.0 petrol, rising to $71,000 for the Kona Premium N-Line EV (64.8 kWh, 155 kW).

Key rivals: Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-3/CX-30, Nissan Qashqai, Kia Seltos, and for EVs, Kia EV3. Budget-friendly alternatives include MG ZS, Chery Tiggo 4, and GWM Haval Jolion.

Exterior features: Alloy wheels from 17 inches, roof rails; N-Line adds sporty cladding and dual chrome exhaust tips.

Interior features: Curved digital dual-screen display for infotainment and instruments, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Hyundai Bluelink app, six-speaker audio, cloth seats, and dual-zone climate control. Upgrades include leather/Alcantara trim, Bose eight-speaker audio, embedded navigation, and N-Line styling touches.

Warranty and Servicing

Hyundai now offers a seven-year/unlimited km warranty, provided servicing is done at a dealer.

• Hybrid and EV batteries are covered for eight years.
• Lifetime roadside assistance is included with dealer servicing.
• Service intervals: Petrol/hybrid 12 months or 15,000 km; EV  every two years or 30,000 km.

Safety Ratings and Equipment

The Hyundai Kona scored four stars from ANCAP in 2023, primarily due to autonomous emergency braking and lane-keeping performance. Key safety features include:

• Rear cross traffic braking, blind spot monitoring, collision avoidance
• Speed limit assist and driver monitoring
• Seven airbags, parking sensors, reversing camera (Premium adds surround-view camera)
• Two ISOFIX mounts and three child seat top tethers

Note: Some safety alerts can be intrusive but can be adjusted via the touchscreen.

Space, Comfort, and Quality

The second-generation Kona has grown in length, width, and wheelbase, improving cabin space.

• Rear seating comfortably fits two 180cm adults.
• Cabin materials are generally high quality, though lower trims show hard plastics.
• Curved digital screen enhances the interior look.
• Storage: Front cubbies generous, rear adequate; boot capacity 407 litres.

Book a test drive to see how it fits your family.

Powertrain and Dynamics

Hyundai upgraded the Kona platform for the second generation, offering a stronger, quieter ride with improved suspension.

• Petrol 2.0-litre: Adequate performance, ideal for city driving.
• Hybrid 1.6-litre: Sweet spot for fuel efficiency and zippy city driving.
• EV: Zero-emissions with excellent acceleration but higher upfront cost.

All models are front-wheel drive, and ride comfort varies slightly with tyre size and rear suspension type. The compact dimensions make it nimble in urban settings, yet capable for longer trips.

Verdict: 2025 Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a standout in the compact SUV segment. It balances size, comfort, safety, and technology across a range of price points. Depending on your choice of petrol, hybrid, or EV, it can suit families, city drivers, and environmentally conscious buyers alike.

Rating: 8/10

2025 Hyundai Kona Specifications