Hyundai Kona review

The latest Kona’s interior is a big leap on from its predecessor. All versions now get dual 12.3in widescreen driver and infotainment displays which are joined at the hip, but it’s nothing like the iPad-style display you find in some rivals and there’s still proper buttons for most of the important functions. Great climate control panel, too.

The steering wheel also features masses of buttons and a couple of scrollers, and the instrument cluster behind is relatively conventional with its round rev counter and speedometer. The optional head-up display is now projected straight onto the screen, unlike its predecessor which got the cheaper flip-up sort.

The central touchscreen works rapidly and you mostly operate it by swiping between menus, though you might well find you never use the native systems with all versions getting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. On the centre console, there’s buttons for the heated steering wheel and seats, plus a drive mode rotary control.

Does it feel premium?

Again, a significant improvement here on its predecessor, which didn't age too well. The Ultimate trim Kona we tested got light-coloured dash and seat trim with lots of ambient lighting (plus a sunroof), which made it feel bright and inviting. Most of the touchpoints feel relatively high end.

It’s spec dependent, of course – base models get a black dash and cloth seats, which we imagine feels very business like and looks a little dreary for our liking, whereas N Line cars get red stitching, ambient lighting, aluminium pedals, and N logos dotted about the place. So it really depends what vibe you’re after from your family crossover.

What’s the space like?

This was one of our biggest complaints of the old version, and we’re pleased to say it’s a lot better than it used to be – particularly so in the rear. Thanks to slimmer front seats and an extended wheelbase, full-size adults will be a lot more comfortable back there. Any kids even more so.

It’s a similar story in the boot, where the old version got a slightly 'meh' 374 litres of space with the rear seats up. No longer: the pure petrol, hybrid and electric versions all now get 466 litres, rising to 1,300 litres when you fold the seats down. There’s also a split-level floor, for hiding any presents from the kids.