Summary
The 2025 Hyundai Kona is a small SUV that grows up in size, design, and technology over its predecessor.
It’s available with several powertrains—2.0L petrol (FWD), a 1.6L turbo (AWD), or a 1.6L hybrid—to accommodate a wide range of driver needs, from everyday commuting to more spirited driving.
Inside, you’ll find a dual-screen layout with an advanced infotainment system that supports over-the-air (OTA) updates.
The new body is longer and wider, translating to more rear-seat legroom and a 407L boot (up 33L from the old model). While the base 2.0L engine is adequate for city driving, the turbo or hybrid models offer either better performance or improved fuel efficiency.
Specifications
| Body Style | 5-door Small SUV |
|---|---|
| Engines | 2.0L Petrol, 1.6L Turbo, 1.6L Hybrid |
| Launched | Mid 2023 (Australia) |
| Last Updated | N/A |
| Upgrade Date | TBA |
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| - Top-notch infotainment & connectivity | - Base engine’s modest torque output |
| - Comfortable ride and more spacious interior | - Some cheap-feeling interior materials |
| - Crisp, modern design packed with advanced features | - Price increase compared to the outgoing Kona |
Pricing
Pricing Information
Before on-road costs
View LIVE driveaway pricing for the Hyundai Kona using our free tool here.
Interior & Features
- Layout & Tech: 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, crisp reversing camera, plus OTA software updates.
- Seating: Manually adjustable cloth seats on the base trim; higher trims get leather with heating/cooling.
- Connectivity: Hyundai Bluelink app for remote start, door-lock status, vehicle location, etc.
- Practicality: 407L boot with a space-saver spare; more rear-seat headroom and legroom than the old Kona.
Engine & Fuel Economy
- 2.0L Petrol (FWD): 110kW/180Nm, CVT, ~6.6L/100km claim.
- 1.6L Turbo (AWD): 146kW/265Nm, 8-speed auto, more performance.
- 1.6L Hybrid (FWD): ~104kW combined, ~3.9L/100km claim.
Image Gallery
Expert Media Reviews
Score: 8.1 / 10
"Eye-catching design, excellent technology, and more spacious than ever."
Link: Read review
Score: 7.0 / 10
"Packed with modern features, though the interior plastics feel basic."
Link: Read review
Score: 7.7 / 10
"The new Kona addresses space and tech concerns, offering a more upscale feel."
Link: Read review
Score: 7.4 / 10
"Hyundai’s small SUV is bigger, more refined, and more competitive than ever."
Link: Read review
Safety Rating
The 2025 Hyundai Kona holds a 4-star ANCAP rating (equivalent to about 8.0/10 in our system). Sub-scores include:
- Adult Occupant Protection: 80%
- Child Occupant Protection: 84%
- Vulnerable Road User: 64%
- Safety Assist: 62%
It comes standard with:
- Autonomous emergency braking (AEB)
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Lane-keeping assist
- Adaptive cruise control
- 7 airbags (including driver’s knee)
- Rearview camera & rear sensors
(Premium models add 360° cameras, reverse AEB, and blind-spot camera displays.)
ECO Rating
We do not have a specific Green NCAP or official local eco score for the 2.0L petrol Kona, so we allocate a baseline rating.
The Kona EV, however, does boast a 5-star rating in overseas testing—but that’s a separate powertrain. Fuel consumption of 6.6L/100km (official) for the petrol engine is acceptable for its class.
Reliability Rating
We’ve taken into account owner feedback from reputable sites and some recall information to assign the Kona a moderate reliability score of 6.2/10 overall.
Hyundai has a strong reputation for after-sales support, and the brand’s 5-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty helps boost buyer confidence—though owners should check relevant recalls to ensure any necessary repairs have been completed.
Recall Information
Multiple recalls have been issued for certain 2023–2025 Hyundai Kona models in Australia. These address potential safety or mechanical risks:
- Rec-005931 (Engine/Engine Cooling) – A potential loss of drive power may increase the risk of a crash.
- Rec-005931 (Electrical System) – A short circuit could lead to an increased risk of fire.
- Seat belt functionality issues from a prior recall, which could reduce occupant restraint effectiveness.
Owners should contact their Hyundai dealer or check the official government recall site for more details.
Cost of Ownership Rating
Servicing:
$399 annually for the first 5 years (2.0L engine, 15,000km intervals).
Insurance:
Example quote is approx. $1353 per year (varying by driver profile).
We consider these costs about average for a small SUV in Australia, assigning a 7.0/10 for Cost of Ownership.
Buy a Hyundai Kona
If you're looking to buy a new or used Hyundai Kona, CarExplore can help you find the perfect match.
Find your next car with CarExplore. Find out more
Sell Your Hyundai Kona
If you're looking to sell your Hyundai Kona, CarExplore can get you the best price.
Sell your car with CarExplore. Find out more
Bottom Line
The 2025 Hyundai Kona represents a major improvement over the previous model—more interior space, polished ride and handling, and a user-friendly infotainment setup.
The base 2.0L engine suffices for daily commuting, but those seeking either better performance or improved efficiency should consider the turbo or hybrid variants.
While price increases and a few recalls may give some buyers pause, the Kona remains a strong contender in the small SUV segment—particularly for those who value up-to-date tech, connected services, and sharp styling.
View More Hyundai
Aize Carter
