Hyundai Kona (2023) – Back to Basics

Hyundai Kona 1.0 T-GDI 48V i-Motion – €29,995

Look at him, that Kona i-Motion. The all-new Kona is basically a nice and sleek, futuristic thing, but this version leaves no doubt that this is the entry-level model. Fair is fair: that is mainly due to the wheels. Hyundai provides the simplest Kona with steel wheels with hubcaps, which in itself is quite rare in 2023. The Koreans also choose to make those hubcaps very ‘open’, so that you can clearly see that the steel wheels behind them are not black, but silver. Our advice: remove those caps, then it will probably suddenly look pretty cool.

In terms of color, the basic Kona does get hands on here at the AutoWeek editors. The only color for which there is no additional charge is the ‘Mirage Green’, which looks great on the press images. Uni-white is also possible, but costs €695 extra. Then you better go for one of the metallic or pearlescent paints, which are hardly more expensive at €795.

When we talk about the base model of ‘the Hyundai Kona’, it automatically means that this is a 1.0 T-GDI. It is the only one that remains just under 30 grand, while the hybrid starts at almost 34 and the fully electric Kona will undoubtedly be even more expensive. The basic Kona gets a three-cylinder with 120 hp and 172 Nm, coupled to a manual six-speed gearbox. It comes in two versions, but they both look exactly the same. You read that right: the Kona in mild hybrid form always has this modest appearance with those steel wheels. This is different with the hybrid, because it is in all cases on light metal. You can also recognize simple Konas by the black window frame, the lack of roof rails and the fact that the daytime running bar in the nose is not fully lit. The middle part is not included here, while more expensive versions do have one continuous LED strip.

The real slip-on is called i-Motion and is secretly not as bald as its appearance suggests. The lighting may be a bit less extensive, but it does consist entirely of LEDs. A reversing camera is standard, as are parking sensors, a start button, a three-part folding rear seat, cruise control, air conditioning, a partial (!) Digital instrumentation and a 12.3-inch multimedia screen with a real navigation system. The latter is quite special, because we usually see that basic versions only work with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. By the way, those functions are simply present.

Is the i-Motion therefore recommended? Well no. It is certainly not a punishment, but the more luxurious Comfort is hardly more expensive at €30,995. For that €1,000 you get, among other things, fully automatic climate control with two zones, a height-adjustable passenger seat, a much more beautifully finished steering wheel and a rain sensor thanks to leather. As far as we are concerned, that version is the better choice, especially because you still get those wonderful hubcaps.