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HYUNDAI in Malaysia should be celebrating the launch of their fully imported Crossover, the Kona 1.6 Turbo.
By now they should be having a high number of bookings with decent profit margins. But, sadly this is not happening because the management of Hyundai Sime Darby cannot match the selling price of the recently launched Proton X50 Crossover. It sits side by side with their fully imported Hyundai Kona 1.6 Turbo.
So, why is the Hyundai Kona not locally assembled to get a better selling price? Well, it's simple, there is no possible way that a local assembled Hyundai Kona can match the selling price of a ‘Malaysian National Car’ with its very favourable tax structure. Yes, the Proton X50 may be a product of Geely (Geely Bin Yue) but with its Proton partnership, it enjoys national car status. And so its selling price is hard to beat.
The Hyundai Kona was launched globally in April 2017. From its first appearance, it was clear that Hyundai Motor was targeting the fast-growing popularity of the Subaru XV, Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V in many markets.
Hyundai Kona looks
The Hyundai Kona is fitted with body styling that follows its well-proportioned, dynamic silhouette. This crossover’s styling is very adventurous. With its long wheelbase and short overhangs, it ensures a sporty and nimble handling drive.
Fitted with a range of ’composite lamps’ on the front, it shows a high-tech and mechanical appearance. The slim daytime running lights (DRL) incorporate turn signals and are positioned in a 'stack', separate to the LED headlights. The rear light configuration is unique for Hyundai. The slim brake lights, turn indicators and reverse lamp are placed in a separate configuration, surrounded by protective skin that begins at the C-pillar garnish.
Hyundai Kona cabin
Step inside this Kona and even with its compact dimensions and low roofline, it delivers best-in-class interior space (against its rivals the X50, CX-3, HR-V and CH-R).
The sleek and simple layout interior contrasts with the bold, adventurous exterior design. The AVN (Audio, Visual, Navigation) monitor incorporates Hyundai Motor's advanced infotainment features. The air vents and functional button arrangement reflect the high-tech functionality of the exterior. The controls are surrounded by soft, fluid details.
The SUV-like ground clearance and an elevated seating position ensure better visibility for drivers. It also increases comfort on long journeys.
The Kona designers also optimised interior space to maximise luggage storage capabilities, reflecting the requirements of customers with active lifestyles. The split-folding rear seats fold flat, with a two-level loading floor that allows easy access for a bicycle or a couple of golf club sets.
Hyundai Kona 1.6i turbo drive
From ignition, this Hyundai’s well-insulated cabin keeps engine and traffic noise to the minimum for its passengers. Look around you and the cabin returns a premium car feel with its high-quality fit, good finish and tight build quality. The 1.6-litre turbocharged engine is mated to the 7-speed gearbox that delivers a lively and responsive drive.
The 177hp engine is docile in traffic speeds and when you work it a little more on the highway, it shows its 265Nm of torque. Rear passengers get good space if there are two of them, with a third adult, it is a little tight just like its rivals (except the XV which is slightly wider).
Hyundai has equipped this crossover with good safety features from the factory.
Kona active safety
This Kona offers advanced active safety features. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), which uses the car’s front-facing camera and radar to detect an imminent collision and avoid impact or minimise damage by braking autonomously. Three more systems also utilise the front-view camera to boost safety and convenience: Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist (HBA), and Driver Attention Warning (DAW).
By sensing road markings, Lane Keeping Assist helps to prevent accidental lane departure by automatically steering the car if required. High Beam Assist automatically controls the high beam headlights depending on the surroundings. While the Driver Attention Warning system monitors a spectrum of driver-related characteristics to detect driver fatigue or careless driving.
Kona radar systems also assist with the Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) to detect approaching vehicles that may be obscured from view during highway driving. The Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) detects when another vehicle may have entered the car’s rearward path, such as backing out of a parking spot and provides a driver alert.
Hyundai has also equipped the cabin with more features than really needed.
Kona infotainment
The Kona offers a full suite of sophisticated technologies paired with user-friendly functionality to keep passengers informed and entertained. The premium infotainment system offers various advanced connectivity features, including standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The standard 7-inch colour LCD display includes AM/FM/MP3 touchscreen audio, auxiliary input jacks, voice-command recognition and Rear View Monitor.
A Heads-Up Display system is available, projecting a virtual image onto the transparent panel mounted behind the instrument panel and helping the driver keep his or her eyes on the road. With a generous, eight-inch projected-image size and outstanding luminance, the Heads-Up Display ensures both excellent day and night-time visibility. Information projected includes speed, navigation instructions, and audio system information. Deployed vertically by a simple touch of a button beside the steering wheel, the display disappears into the dashboard when not in use.
The Kona also offers smartphone wireless charging which is a segment-first feature. To charge a device, place a compatible smartphone on the wireless-charging interface located in the centre console storage. It would recharge without the need for cables. The system indicates when the phone has fully charged, reminds occupants to remove their phones when exiting the vehicle, and detects when a foreign object is in the recharging area that could interfere with charging. The system is fully compliant with Wireless Power Consortium’s Qi standard for ease of use.
Kona conclusion
Yes, the Proton X50 might be priced lower, but this Kona is a high-quality crossover with proven after-sales and a strong factory warranty of 5 years. Test drive this Kona before dismissing it. – The Vibes, Feb 1, 2021
Hyundai Kona 1.6i Specifications
Engine: 4-cylinder Gamma Turbo GDI
Power: 177bhp @ 5500rpm
Torque: 265Nm @ 1500-4500rpm
Capacity: 1591cc
Transmission: 7-speed Eco-Shift Dual-Clutch Auto
Price: RM143,888.00
