Hyundai Kona running costs: what UK ownership really costs

Hyundai Kona UK running costs: fuel or electric, insurance group, road tax, servicing and depreciation.

Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

The Hyundai Kona offers competitive running costs, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious drivers. Fuel efficiency varies by engine type, insurance groups are reasonable, tax bands are manageable, servicing intervals are convenient, and depreciation rates are typical for the segment, ensuring a balanced total ownership cost.

Fuel and Electric Costs

The fuel economy of the Hyundai Kona varies depending on the engine choice. The petrol models typically return around 40-50 mpg, while the diesel variant can achieve up to 60 mpg, making it a cost-effective option for long-distance driving. The electric version, known as the Kona Electric, offers an impressive range of approximately 250 miles on a full charge, with running costs significantly lower than petrol or diesel counterparts.

Charging costs for the Kona Electric can vary based on electricity tariffs, but on average, it costs around £6-£8 to fully charge at home, translating to roughly 2-3 pence per mile. This makes the electric variant particularly appealing for urban drivers or those with short commutes. Additionally, the Kona Electric benefits from lower tax rates and exemptions from congestion charges in certain areas.

Insurance Group

Insurance costs for the Hyundai Kona are generally affordable, with most models falling within insurance groups 12 to 20, depending on the engine and trim level. This range makes the Kona accessible for a wide demographic, including younger drivers who may be more sensitive to insurance premiums.

For example, the entry-level models tend to be in the lower insurance groups, while higher-spec versions with more powerful engines may attract higher premiums. It is advisable to shop around for quotes, as prices can vary significantly between insurers. Overall, the Kona’s insurance costs are competitive within its class, contributing to its appeal as a family-friendly vehicle.

Tax Band

The Hyundai Kona’s tax band is influenced by its CO2 emissions, which vary based on the engine type. Petrol models typically emit between 130-150 g/km, placing them in tax bands C to E. Diesel variants are slightly more efficient, often falling into bands B to D, making them a more economical choice for tax purposes.

The Kona Electric, on the other hand, boasts zero emissions, which means it is exempt from road tax altogether. This exemption can lead to significant savings over time, especially for drivers who prefer electric vehicles. Additionally, the Kona Electric qualifies for the government’s plug-in car grant, further reducing the initial purchase price and enhancing its overall affordability.

Servicing Intervals

Hyundai recommends servicing the Kona every 12,000 miles or annually, whichever comes first. This regular maintenance schedule is in line with industry standards and ensures that the vehicle remains in optimal condition. Routine servicing typically includes oil changes, filter replacements, and checks on essential components such as brakes and tyres.

The cost of servicing can vary depending on the garage and location, but Hyundai’s competitive pricing and warranty packages help keep ownership costs manageable. Many owners find that the Kona’s reliability reduces the likelihood of unexpected repairs, contributing to a lower overall maintenance cost during the ownership period.

Typical Depreciation

Depreciation rates for the Hyundai Kona are fairly typical within the compact SUV market. On average, a new Kona may lose around 40-50% of its value over the first three years, depending on factors such as mileage, condition, and market demand. This rate is comparable to other vehicles in the same segment, making it a reasonable choice for those concerned about resale value.

The Kona Electric may experience slightly different depreciation trends due to the growing interest in electric vehicles. As more consumers seek eco-friendly options, the demand for used electric vehicles like the Kona Electric is likely to increase, potentially mitigating depreciation. Overall, the Kona’s depreciation is manageable, making it a sound investment for buyers looking for a reliable and stylish SUV.

Hyundai Kona MOT record

From 61,435 recorded MOT tests, 10.2% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
Registered	Tests	Failed	Median mileage
2023	1,011	9.0%	24,220 mi
2022	16,848	8.9%	22,255 mi
2021	16,107	10.2%	30,980 mi
2020	11,718	11.0%	35,495 mi
2019	8,742	10.8%	39,026 mi
2018	6,592	11.2%	44,406 mi
2017	417	12.7%	48,147 mi

Most common reasons for failure

A tyre seriously damaged37.3%
Tyre tread depth not in accordance with the requirements30.5%
a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm11.7%
Wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen10.5%
Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured10.0%

Figures cover every Hyundai Kona tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Hyundai Kona official figures

Median across 82 variants on sale, electricity, petrol, petrol electric.

Combined economy: 47.9 mpg; WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions: 135 g/km; Sets the first-year tax rate
Electric range: 291 miles; Manufacturer WLTP figure

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What are the typical fuel costs for a Hyundai Kona?

The Hyundai Kona generally offers good fuel efficiency, averaging around 40-50 mpg depending on the engine variant. For a typical driver covering 12,000 miles a year, this could translate to fuel costs of approximately £1,500 annually, based on current fuel prices.

How often does a Hyundai Kona need servicing?

Servicing for the Hyundai Kona is recommended every 12 months or 10,000 miles, whichever comes first. Regular maintenance includes oil changes, filter replacements, and checks on components like the brake system and tyres to ensure optimal performance.

What is the road tax band for the Hyundai Kona?

The Hyundai Kona falls into various tax bands depending on the model year and engine size. For example, the 2021 Kona with a 1.0-litre petrol engine is in tax band B, which means a lower annual road tax cost compared to larger engines.

Are there any specific maintenance issues to watch for?

Drivers should keep an eye on the Kona's brake pads, which may wear out faster if driven aggressively. Additionally, the 2018 model has had reports of issues with the infotainment system, so regular software updates are advisable.

What are the insurance costs like for a Hyundai Kona?

Insurance costs for the Hyundai Kona vary by model and driver profile, but generally, it sits in insurance groups 12 to 20. This means that younger drivers or those with less experience may face higher premiums, especially for the sportier variants.

What is the average cost of replacing a Hyundai Kona battery?

Replacing the battery in a Hyundai Kona can be a significant expense, especially for the electric model. The cost can vary, but it is advisable to budget for around £5,000 for a new battery pack, depending on the warranty and service options available.

How reliable is the Hyundai Kona in terms of running costs?

The Hyundai Kona is generally considered reliable, with low running costs compared to other vehicles in its class. Regular checks on the cooling system and transmission fluid can help maintain its reliability and prevent costly repairs down the line.