Hyundai Kona II (SX2) (2023 – Aujourd'hui)

Reliability score : 8.7/10

The second-generation Hyundai Kona (codename SX2) marks a radical break from its predecessor. Designed first as an electric vehicle before being declined into internal combustion and hybrid versions, it grows considerably (+15 cm in length) to position itself at the edge of the C-SUV segment, finally offering family-worthy interior space. Its futuristic design, characterized by the Seamless Horizon light strip, hides a very ergonomic interior that intelligently retains physical controls for climate control. Although this sheet focuses on gasoline engines (pure and mild-hybrid), the Kona SX2 shines with its extremely wide multi-energy offering, adapted to each global market. Being a very recent model, long-term reliability feedback is limited, but it relies on the K3 platform and widely pro

✅ Strengths

Significantly increased interior space (rear legroom and 466 L trunk).
Excellent interior ergonomics (retention of physical buttons for climate control and shortcuts).
Reassuring manufacturer warranty (5 years unlimited mileage in Europe, 10 years/100k miles in the USA).
Abandonment of the DCT7 gearbox on the 1.6 T-GDI (North Amer./Asia) in favor of a much more reliable 8-speed automatic.
Very well-executed mechanical sound insulation on gasoline and hybrid versions.

⚠️ Weaknesses

Wind and road noise still present on the highway (especially with 18/19-inch wheels).
Hard plastics omnipresent in the lower part of the cabin and on the rear door panels.
Very intrusive driving aids (ADAS), especially the overspeed warning (GSR2) which is tedious to deactivate.
Prices significantly higher compared to the first generation.

🎯 Verdict

The second-generation Hyundai Kona (SX2) is a vehicle that has matured. Growing up, it becomes a true primary vehicle for a small family. As for gasoline powertrains, the reliability outlook is excellent. In Europe, the 1.0 T-GDI does the job, but the 1.6 Hybrid (HEV) version represents the best purchase for its smoothness and fuel efficiency. In North America, the replacement of the dual-clutch gearbox with an 8-speed automatic transmission on the 1.6 T-GDI erases the main drawback of the previous generation. Onboard electronics (screens, ADAS) are the only real point to watch in the first few years, but the long-term manufacturer warranty (5 to 10 years depending on the market) allows for a worry-free purchase.