New Hyundai Kona vs Volkswagen T-Roc: verdict
Fuel efficiency is at the heart of Hyundai’s new small SUV, but does it have enough strings in its bow to beat the five-star Volkswagen T-Roc? Let’s find out...
Our verdict
There’s a lot to like about the new Kona, including its spacious interior, user-friendly infotainment system and generous standard spec. Plus, its hybrid technology has the potential to dramatically reduce your fuel bills.
Overall, though, the Kona doesn’t do quite enough to beat the T-Roc, which is better to drive, classier inside and more comfortable. And remember, this isn’t even our favourite version of the T-Roc; the 1.0 TSI 110 Life model offers the same strengths for a lot less money.
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1st – Volkswagen T-Roc
For Stronger performance; more agile handling; smoother ride; higher-quality interior materials; more practical boot
Against Fiddly touch-sensitive controls; hesitant automatic gearbox; no full hybrid option; fuel economy isn’t great
Recommended options Rear-view camera (£290)
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Volkswagen T-Roc review >>
For Better fuel economy; cheaper to run as a company car; loads of rear leg room; lots of standard kit; user-friendly controls
Against Fidgety low-speed ride; depreciates at a faster rate; wallowy handling; small fuel tank
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Hyundai Kona review >>
Hyundai Kona deals >>
Specifications: Hyundai Kona 1.6 Hybrid N Line S
Engine 4cyl, 1580cc, petrol plus electric motor
Peak power 139bhp (combined)
Peak torque 195lb ft (combined)
Gearbox 6-spd automatic, front-wheel drive
0-60mph 9.9sec
30-70mph in kickdown 9.9sec
Top speed 103mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.4m
Braking 70-0mph 46.2m
Noise at 30mph 61.0dB
Noise at 70mph 66.4dB
Kerb weight 1525kg
Tyres size (standard) 215/55 R18
Test fuel economy 46.1mpg
Official fuel economy 62.8mpg
Fuel tank 38 litres
CO2 emissions 106g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 TSI 150 R-Line
Engine 4cyl, 1498cc, turbo, petrol
Peak power 148bhp at 5000rpm
Peak torque 184lb ft at 1500-3500rpm
Gearbox 7-spd automatic, front-wheel drive
0-60mph 8.5sec
30-70mph in kickdown 7.8sec
Top speed 128mph
Braking 30-0mph 8.9m
Braking 70-0mph 47.1m
Noise at 30mph 60.9dB
Noise at 70mph 66.1dB
Kerb weight 1301kg
Tyres size (standard) 215/55 R17
Test fuel economy 37.9mpg
Official fuel economy 36.2mpg
Fuel tank 50 litres
CO2 emissions 138g/km
Test weather conditions Dry, 24deg C
Cars pictured
Hyundai Kona 1.6 Hybrid N Line S with Ecotronic Grey metallic paint (£585)
Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 TSI 150 R-Line DSG with Kings Red Metallic paint and black roof (£1350), Dynamic Chassis Control (£1105), Black Design Pack with 18in alloy wheels (£680), towbar (£745), keyless start/entry (£390), wireless phone charger (£375) and rear-view camera (£290)
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