Hyundai Kona vs. Hyundai i30: Which Is Better?
July 30, 2023
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Could you be wondering which car is better, between Hyundai Kona vs Hyundai i30? If you’re in the market for a vehicle that takes you places and becomes an extension of your identity, you’re in for a treat.
The automotive arena has never seen a thrilling face-off where innovation, design, and performance engage in a symphony of supremacy. Today, we embark on a journey of discovery that lays bare the strengths and distinctions of these two automotive powerhouses.
But wait, let’s clarify one thing from the outset – this is not your run-of-the-mill comparison. We’re not here to feed you a rehearsed script of marketing jargon. We’re here to peel back the layers, unveil the nuances, and bring you an honest, unbiased evaluation. There will be no shortcuts or compromise on the truth.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, tech enthusiast, or pragmatist, this car battle will provide insights to guide your decision-making. Get ready to witness the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai i30 in a head-to-head clash. The stage is set, and the engines are revving.
Design and Exterior
Hyundai Kona Design Features
Muscular, Sculpted Shapes
Hyundai Kona’s bold exterior displays muscular and sculpted shapes, complemented by sleek LED lighting that adds a touch of modern elegance. The attention to detail is impeccable, with unique elements that proudly showcase the strong Hyundai SUV DNA at the heart of its design.
High-contrast Fender Cladding
Distinctive high-contrast fender cladding sets Hyundai Kona apart from other vehicles and contributes to its rugged and adventurous character. This ruggedness is further emphasized by sensuous and muscular surfaces atop a stable and wide stance, giving the Kona a powerful and robust presence on the road.
Cascading Grille
The front of the Kona is graced by Hyundai Motor’s signature Cascading Grille with a mesmerizing mesh pattern, adding a touch of sophistication to its already expressive and dynamic appearance. This family identity design element ties the Kona to its Hyundai heritage while elevating its aesthetics.
A two-tone roof and exterior colours
Additionally, the Hyundai Kona offers personalization options to suit every individual style. A striking two-tone roof and ten distinctive exterior colours allow potential owners to create unique combinations that speak to their taste and personality. This emphasis on individuality ensures that the Kona caters to diverse preferences, making it a versatile and inclusive choice for all.
Hyundai I30 Design Features
Exterior Styling
The Hyundai i30 typically features a sleek, modern exterior design with smooth lines and a dynamic profile. It often includes a distinctive front grille, stylish headlights, and LED daytime running lights, giving it a contemporary and eye-catching appearance.
Aerodynamic Efficiency
The design of the i30 often incorporates aerodynamic elements to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce wind resistance. This may include carefully crafted body contours, air curtains, and rear diffusers.
Alloy Wheels
The i30 usually comes equipped with stylish alloy wheels that add to its aesthetic appeal and improve the vehicle’s performance and handling.
Panoramic Sunroof (Optional)
Some models may offer a panoramic sunroof, allowing ample natural light into the cabin and enhancing the overall sense of space and openness.
Space and Versatility
The i30, especially in its wagon version, often provides ample cargo space, making it suitable for families or individuals who require extra versatility.
Environmental Considerations
Hyundai tends to incorporate eco-friendly design features, such as using sustainable materials and energy-efficient technologies, to minimize the vehicle’s environmental impact.
Interior Features and Comfort
Hyundai Kona Interior Features
The Hyundai Kona offers a range of impressive interior features designed to enhance the driving experience and keep passengers entertained and connected. Standard features include
An 8-inch touchscreen
The touchscreen supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, seamlessly integrating smartphones. Bluetooth connectivity enables hands-free calling and audio streaming. The audio experience is delivered through a six-speaker stereo system, ensuring clear and immersive sound. Additionally, remote keyless entry and three USB ports make the mix convenient.
For those seeking a more enhanced experience, the Kona offers an available 10.25-inch touch screen, which provides a visually impressive display. Accompanying this is a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that provides essential driving information in a modern format. Navigation ensures drivers can easily find their way, and wireless device charging keeps smartphones powered up without the hassle of cables.
Infotainment system
The touchscreen infotainment system in the Kona is designed to be user-friendly. It features intuitive controls, sharp graphics, and an easy-to-navigate menu structure. Including redundant physical knobs and buttons for climate and audio settings enhances ease of use and accessibility.
Satellite radio and HD Radio
Entertainment options are expanded with satellite radio and HD Radio, while voice recognition makes controlling features effortless and hands-free. The Kona offers an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system for audiophiles, delivering premium sound quality throughout the cabin. Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system provides advanced connectivity and remote control functionalities, adding another layer of convenience and security.
Automatic climate control
Comfort is also taken care of, including automatic climate control. It allows occupants to set their preferred temperature easily.
Hyundai I30 Interior Features
Touchscreen Infotainment System
The Kona comes with an easy-to-use touchscreen infotainment system. In the facelifted version, the touchscreen is wider, making it even more convenient to access various features.
CarPlay Connectivity
The car offers a simple CarPlay connection, allowing users to integrate their compatible iPhones seamlessly and access various apps and features hands-free.
Driver Aids
The Kona comes equipped with a range of driver aids. These aids can be easily deactivated with straightforward button presses, giving the driver more control over their driving experience.
Physical Climate Controls
The important climate controls are designed as physical buttons or knobs rather than being buried deep within the touchscreen. This makes adjusting the temperature and other climate settings easier and quicker.
Adjustable Front Seat Squabs
The front seat squabs in the Kona can slide fore and aft, similar to a feature found in BMW cars. This adjustability allows the driver and front passenger to find the most comfortable seating.
‘N’ Performance Button
The steering wheel of the Kona includes an ‘N’ performance button. This button combines various drive and chassis settings, allowing the driver to access their favourite configuration quickly, akin to what is found in high-performance ‘M’ cars from BMW.
Increased Luggage Room in Fastback Version
For those opting for the Fastback version of the Kona, it provides an impressive 69 extra litres of luggage room, enhancing the car’s practicality even further.
Performance And Handling
Hyundai Kona’s Performance Details
The Hyundai Kona’s performance features an intriguing 2.0-litre petrol engine with 110kw, displaying a “pedestrian” pace taking 11.9 seconds to reach 100km/h. While it lags behind rivals, it avoids sluggishness.
The Hybrid version combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, delivering up to 139bhp. The electric motor offers swift and spirited acceleration from a standstill and can run on electric power for short distances at lower speeds.
The Kona’s suspension is “choppy” with a firm setup, causing a somewhat tumultuous ride on uneven roads. Opting for 18-inch alloy wheels improves resilience, allowing nimble handling in turns.
The Kona’s hybrid nature provides a serene experience in slow traffic, with the electric motor contributing to a smooth drive. The transition to the petrol engine is generally seamless, occasionally showing slight buzziness during intense acceleration.
Hyundai I30 Performance Details
The Hyundai i30 N, in its standard trim, boasts impressive performance details. It is powered by a torque of 392 Nm, providing excellent acceleration and responsiveness. The car can reach a top speed of 250 km/h, making it suitable for both exhilarating drives and everyday use.
For driving enthusiasts, the i30 N has a 6-speed manual transmission featuring a carbon synchronizer ring. This feature enhances gear-shifting efficiency and precision, creating a more engaging driving experience. Additionally, the standard trim includes a robust clutch, ensuring optimal power delivery and handling on the road.
Safety Features
Hyundai Kona Safety Features
The Hyundai Kona boasts a comprehensive array of advanced safety features to enhance driver confidence and protect occupants. Among these features are
- Lane Departure Mitigation
- Forward Collision Mitigation
- Blind-Spot Warning System
- Lane Keeping (Maintaining) System
- Rear Cross-Traffic Warning System
- Safe-Exit System
All these features collectively prevent potential accidents and promote safe driving practices.
The vehicle is also equipped with 4-Wheel ABS, Traction Control, and Stability Control, further enhancing its ability to maintain stability and control during various driving conditions. With these cutting-edge safety technologies, the Hyundai Kona ensures passengers a safe and secure driving experience.
Hyundai I30 Safety Features
The Hyundai i30 has comprehensive safety features to ensure a secure driving experience. These include
- Lane Following Assist (LFA) for effortless lane centering
- Forward Collision-avoidance Assist to prevent potential front-end collisions
- Blind Spot Collision-avoidance Assist to detect vehicles in blind spots
- Rear Cross-traffic Collision-avoidance Assist for safe reversing
- Leading vehicle departure alert to warn against inattentive starts
- High Beam Assist for optimal night visibility
- Lane Keeping Assists in maintaining proper lane positioning
- Intelligent Speed Limit Warning to provide speed limit information
- Driver Attention Warning to alert drivers of potential fatigue or distraction.
These advanced safety technologies combine to enhance the overall safety of the Hyundai i30 on the road.
Pricing and Value
Hyundai Kona Pricing And Value Proposition
The pricing of Hyundai Kona offers a diverse range of options to cater to various preferences and needs. According to Edmunds, the 2023 model presents an enticing MSRP range of $22,140 to $34,9501. In 2024, the upgraded Kona, boasting increased size and power, introduces a starting price of $25,4352.
This pricing structure allows prospective buyers to select from various trim levels, engine configurations, and drivetrain choices.
Hyundai I30 Pricing And Value Proposition
The Hyundai i30 lineup offers diverse options to cater to various preferences and budgets. At the entry-level, the i30 hatchback 2.0T GDi manual S presents an affordable starting point, priced at $23,720 in Australia1.
For those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience, the i30N hatchback 2.0T GDi manual Performance Package costs $56,4801.
Hyundai i30 balances accessible pricing and premium offerings, appealing to a wide spectrum of drivers looking for both value and performance in their vehicle choice.
Pros and Cons
Hyundai Kona pros
The Hyundai Kona boasts many exceptional attributes that make it a standout choice in the competitive SUV market. Here are some of them
Power and Performance
With a focus on power and performance, the Kona offers an exhilarating and efficient driving experience. Its impressive engine options deliver swift acceleration and responsive handling, ensuring that every journey is thrilling.
Excellent steering Dynamics
One of Kona’s notable strengths lies in its excellent steering dynamics. The precision and agility of the steering system provide a sense of control and confidence, making maneuvering through various driving conditions a breeze.
Attractive and comfortable Interior
High-quality materials and thoughtful design elements create a welcoming and refined cabin space. Ergonomically designed seats offer ample support for short commutes and long journeys, ensuring that drivers and passengers enjoy a comfortable ride.
Top-notch technology
In the realm of technology, the Hyundai Kona shines with its abundance of modern tech features. From intuitive infotainment systems to advanced driver-assistance technologies, the Kona is equipped to keep you connected, informed, and safe on the road.
World Class infotainment System
The Kona offers an amazing sound system for audiophiles and music enthusiasts, elevating the in-car audio experience.
Wide Range of Safety Features
Advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking contribute to a safer driving environment. They provide extra protection for the driver and passengers.
Saves on Fuel
In terms of efficiency, the Hyundai Kona delivers great fuel economy numbers. This makes it a cost-effective choice for those who want to minimize their environmental impact and save on fuel costs.
Hyundai Kona cons
Unrefined Shifting
The transmission’s shifting behaviour is another aspect that could use improvement in the Hyundai Kona. Drivers might notice that the shifts, particularly in the automatic transmission variants, can feel less smooth and more pronounced than desired.
Lots of Hard Plastic
Inside the Hyundai Kona’s cabin, an issue that might catch your attention is using hard plastic materials in various areas. While compact SUVs often have hard plastics, the Kona’s excessive use gives a less refined feel.
The Base Engine Could Be Better
Hyundai Kona’s base engine’s performance may adequately handle daily commutes and city driving. But it might need help with more demanding situations like highway merging or passing.
Engine and Road Noise
Another area where the Hyundai Kona needs to improve is cabin noise insulation. The engine noise can become quite pronounced, especially during hard acceleration or higher speeds.
Hyundai I30 Pros
Here’s an elaboration on the pros of the Hyundai i30
Comfy and Easygoing
The Hyundai i30 stands out for its comfortable and easygoing nature. Its well-tuned suspension and thoughtful chassis design provide a smooth, relaxed driving experience.
Practical
The i30 excels in practicality, making it a versatile option for various lifestyles. The well-designed interior space offers ample legroom and headroom for front and rear passengers. Additionally, the i30’s cargo area is intelligently laid out, providing a generous amount of storage for groceries, luggage, or other items.
Economical
Fuel efficiency is a strong point of the Hyundai i30, making it a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious drivers. The i30’s range of efficient engines, with its aerodynamic design and advanced technologies, helps keep fuel consumption in check.
Good Infotainment
The Hyundai i30 boasts a well-designed, user-friendly system that enhances the driving experience. The intuitive interface, responsive touchscreen, and convenient controls make accessing various entertainment, navigation, and connectivity features easy.
Hyundai I30 Cons
Mediocre Performance of Entry-Level Engine
One of the notable drawbacks of the Hyundai i30 is the performance of its entry-level engine. The engine might lack the punch and responsiveness some drivers seek, especially when accelerating or merging onto highways.
CO2 Emissions and Fuel Consumption Aren’t Great
The Hyundai i30 might need help regarding CO2 emissions and fuel consumption. In an era where environmental concerns and fuel efficiency are increasingly important. The i30’s emissions and fuel consumption figures might not be as competitive as some of its rivals.
Uninspiring Handling
Another drawback of the Hyundai i30 is its handling characteristics, which might not be as engaging or dynamic as some drivers desire. The handling could need more sharpness and agility enthusiasts to look for in a vehicle.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Hyundai Model Is More Suitable For City Driving?
The Hyundai i10 is the more suitable Hyundai model. The latest i10 is well-suited for the city. This is possible following its refinement, styling tweaks, digital instrument panel, mood lighting, and additional safety systems.
What Are The Differences In Cargo Space Between Hyundai Kona And Hyundai I30?
The Hyundai Kona has a larger cargo space compared to the Hyundai i30. With the rear seats upright, the cargo capacity of the i30 is 395 litres, whereas the Kona offers a slightly larger cargo capacity of 407 litres. It indicates that the Kona provides more space for carrying items in the trunk or cargo area when the rear seats are in their normal position.
Does The Hyundai Kona Or Hyundai I30 Offer Better Fuel Efficiency?
The Hyundai i30 offers better fuel efficiency compared to the Hyundai Kona. The i30 has an average fuel consumption of 4.7 L/100km, whereas the Hyundai Kona’s fuel economy ranges from 6.9 to 8.8 L/100km.
Therefore, based on these figures, the i30 has a more favourable fuel efficiency rating. Keep in mind that actual fuel efficiency can vary based on factors such as driving conditions, engine size, and transmission.
Can I Tow A Trailer With Hyundai Kona Or Hyundai I30?
Yes! The Hyundai i30 is suitable for towing trailers, especially in the sub-1,400kg towing weight class. It has impressed judges in towing competitions, making it a good choice for trailer campers and micro-caravans owners.
What Is The Warranty Coverage For These Models?
Hyundai models, the Kona, and the i30 come with a 5-year or 100,000 kilometres mileage warranty. This coverage indicates that Hyundai offers a comprehensive warranty for both models, providing coverage for a specified period or mileage.
Conclusion
The decision between the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai i30 ultimately depends on your preferences and driving needs. Both models have proven their worth in the automotive landscape, offering unique qualities that cater to different lifestyles.
As you embark on this exciting decision-making process, remember that Madman Motors stands ready to be your trusted partner, guiding you toward the perfect choice that aligns with your desires and requirements.
Visit Madman Motors today, and let your Hyundai journey begin with confidence and excitement. Your ideal driving experience awaits – whether it’s the daring Kona or the refined i30, Madman Motors has the keys to elevate your driving experience to unparalleled heights.
