Funk and soul

Takes Hyundai’s eye-catching Kona crossover for a first spin on UK roads.

In keeping with other manufacturers, Hyundai has released its own compact SUV – the Kona. Going up against the likes of the Seat Arona and Kia Stonic, the Kona is aimed at younger families who want a little more space without sacrificing any “look at me” styling touches.

While Hyundai admits that for the most part people buy its cars due to an impression of value for money and reliability, it hopes customers will opt for the funkily designed Kona as a heart-led purchase. Available with two- and four-wheel-drive, a good amount of standard equipment should draw in more cost-conscious owners. speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Economy figures are good – a claimed 54.3mpg on a combined cycle.

You can certainly feel that the Kona has been well set-up. The steering has plenty of weight, and you can place the car just where you want it. The six-speed gearbox is slick, while the 1.0litre engine is punchy enough – although it can get a little out of puff on steep inclines or when overtaking on the motorway.

The Kona is a funky-looking thing. There are a variety of colours, and contrasting roof shades. It certainly looks its best in brighter finishes. But even in black it looks quite different to anything on the road. £17,495 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol 118 172

11.8 54.3 113 The interior is, in general, a nice place to be. There are a few harder plastics, but it’s worth remembering that prices start at £16,695. Our Se-spec car benefited from a leatherwrapped steering wheel and electric driver’s seat lumbar support, which helped give the car a far more premium feel. There’s plenty of room for those sat up front, too, with a large windscreen giving the cabin a spacious, airy feel. Boot space is decent too.

Standard equipment levels are good throughout, with even base S-trim cars receiving 16in alloy wheels, air conditioning and automatic headlamps. Digital radio and Bluetooth connectivity are standard across the entire Kona range, regardless of trim level.