New Hyundai Kona SUV is brewing
We’re at the world premiere of what is one of Hyundai’s most important vehicles yet – a brand-new small SUV. Rob Maetzig files from Seoul, South Korea.
lamps in Hyundai-speak) that are stacked one on top of the other and are separate from very slim daytime running lights and tail lights.
At the world launch, Hyundai Design Centre head Luc Donkerwolke said the aim was to create a new model that would better reflect rapidly changing market preferences towards the SUV style.
‘‘People want vehicles thare are enjoyable and easy to use, and better reflect their active lifestyles,’’ he said. ‘‘That’s why, for instance, we took our inspiration for the body armour from the protective gear skateboarders wear.’’
Although the Kona is shorter than both the CX-3 and the C-HR, Hyundai claims it offers best-inclass interior space – largely due to an all-new compact platform with reduced central tunnel intrusion. Rear suspension has also been arranged so rear seating can be lower, resulting in easier access and more headroom for passengers.
When it does arrive in New Zealand, there will be two petrol models – a 2WD version powered by a 111kW/179Nm Atkinson Cycle multi-point injected engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, and anAWD version powered by a 132kW/ 265Nm direct injected and turbocharged engine paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch auto. Both versions are likely to be available with two levels of specification – entry and Elite.
MacPherson strut front suspension is essentially the same on both models, but different rear suspension systems have been developed for the 2WD andAWD versions. The 2WD version has a high-stiffness torsion beam for greater stability and control, while theAWDconfiguration features a dual-arm multi-link system for better driving dynamics on all surfaces.
During the world launch there was the opportunity to take the Kona out for short drives at the brand’s Namyang research and development centre. We grabbed a 1.6 turbo, and immediate impression was this is a good small SUV.
Interior space is good for what is a fairly diminutive vehicle, and ride and handling feel very good. We’re looking forward to driving it on New Zealand roads.
Safety looks set to be a high priority with the Kona. Safety features will include forward collision avoidance which uses a forward facing camera and radar and autonomous braking to help prevent or minimise rear-end impacts.
Front-view cameras will also be used for three other safety systems – lane-keep assist, highbeam assist, and drive attention warning.
The car’s radar systems will also assist with blind-spot collision warning, and rear-cross traffic alert. Much of this information will also be projected on to a head-up display which will be standard aboard the Kona.
And in a first for the segment, the Kona will feature smartphone wireless charging as an option.
Hyundai NZ has expressed confidence that this new Kona will have the goods to move the brand to the top of the small SUV category, a position the ix35 enjoyed before being replaced by the Tucson. The company may well be right.
Take a nervous swig of your Hawaiian coffee, opposition car companies. And while you’re at it, consider this: at the world launch, Hyundai promised that an EV version with a range of more than 390 kilometres may be launched as early as next year.