Introduction

The compact SUV scene has become very crowded, very quickly. Standing out from your neighbour is critical - as the popular Nissan Juke proves - and that is exactly what Hyundai hopes to achieve with the Kona. Meet one of the most polarising cars on sale today, which must take on competition not only from the Juke, but also from the Kia Stonic, VW T-Roc, Seat Arona, Citroen C3 Aircross and more.

Did you know? The Hyundai Kona is designed by the same man behind the handsome Kia Stinger and the already-iconic Mk1 Audi TT, Peter Schreyer.

Verdict | Design | Interior | Technology | Performance | Safety | Specs | Running Costs | Pricing

It’s a brave move from Hyundai to make the Kona so unique-looking when compared with the rather anonymous shapes of its rivals — we’re looking at you Honda HR-V. Love it or hate it, the Korean brand deserves some recognition for daring to be different. The same goes for the car’s colour pallet and customisation options.

At this point in time the Kona is hindered by a choice of just two engines, one of which is too costly to justify. However, this SUV has the ingredients to do very well with the addition of diesel and electric power in the near future.

It might not be the most refined or practical SUV, but in a segment that’s ...