The new Hyundai Kona is due to launch in South Africa later in October 2018, but we’ve already unearthed pricing for the Korean automaker’s fresh-faced crossover.
At launch, the local range will comprise two derivatives, both front-wheel drive and both powered by petrol. The first is the Kona 1,0 TDGi Executive, priced at R379 900. This variant employs the brand’s turbocharged 1,0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, which sends its 88 kW and 172 N.m to the front axle via a six-speed manual gearbox. Hyundai claims a zero to 100 km/h time of 12,0 seconds and an average fuel consumption of 6,8 L/100 km.
The second derivative in the range is the Kona 2,0 Executive, which comes in at R399 900. This naturally aspirated four-cylinder petrol mill makes 110 kW and 180 N.m, which is directed to the front axle through a six-speed automatic transmission. The obligatory dash to three figures takes a claimed 10,0 seconds, while Hyundai says it sips at 7,2 L/100 km.
The Executive trim level will include items such as LED daytime running lights, blind-spot detection, lane-change assist, rear cross traffic alert, rear parking sensors, a reverse camera, an infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay) and cruise control. Other standard safety features include ABS (with EBD), electronic stability control, hill start assist and six airbags.
Boot space measures a claimed 361 litres (with utility space coming in at a claimed 1 143 litres), while Hyundai’s full seven-year/200 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan (with intervals of 15 000 km) will come standard. Both models employ torsion beam rear suspension arrangements, ride on 17-inch alloys (wrapped in 215/55 rubber) and feature a mix of faux-leather and cloth inside.
Of course, Hyundai Automotive South Africa already offers a light SUV in the form of the recently facelifted Creta. And there’s certainly some crossover (if you’ll excuse the pun) between the two in terms of pricing, what with the three-strong Creta range starting at R339 900 and running through to R399 900. But the brand has long held that the two vehicles will appeal to different types of buyers.
In addition, the Hyundai Kona is a little smaller than the Creta, measuring 4 165 mm long (some 105 mm shorter than its sibling), although its wheelbase is slightly lengthier at 2 600 mm.
We’ll be driving the new Kona in Cape Town later in October, so keep your eyes peeled for our first impressions…
