Volkswagen T-Roc vs Seat Arona vs Hyundai Kona
All of these cars combine stylish SUV looks with practical interiors and surprisingly low running costs, but which is best?...
Our verdict
The Volkswagen T-Roc has previously lost out to the Audi Q2 in range-topping four-wheel-drive diesel form. Fortunately, it makes heaps more sense in this 1.0-litre petrol guise. Yes, interior quality remains a disappointment, but VW’s smallest SUV is otherwise a thoroughly recommendable choice.
The Seat Arona runs it close, though. That it’s massively cheaper each month if you’re buying on PCP finance is a big consideration, and it’s also smarter inside, better equipped and a bit more fun to drive. However, it’s also quite a lot noisier, has a smaller boot and will cost private cash buyers more in the long run.
Last place goes to the Hyundai Kona. It’s way off the pace in this company, being the most cramped inside and the least comfortable on the road. Yes, it’s extremely well equipped on the luxury front, but then you have to pay extra for automatic emergency braking, which really should be standard.
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1st – Volkswagen T-Roc
For Most comfortable ride; hushed road manners; biggest boot; best for safety
Against Disappointing interior quality; no sat-nav; pricey PCP repayments
Recommended options Non-standard paint (from £280); sat-nav (£1130)
What Car? rating 4/5
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2nd – Seat Arona
For Most entertaining to drive; cheapest PCP payments; most rear head and leg room; largely comfy ride
Against Road and suspension noise; no optional extras; driving position won’t suit everyone
Recommended options None
What Car? rating 4/5
Read our full Seat Arona review
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3rd – Hyundai Kona
For Very well equipped; agile handling; punchy engine
Against Unsettled ride; low-rent interior; emergency braking costs extra; heavy depreciation; least practical
Recommended options Safety Pack (£235)
What Car? rating 3/5
Read our full Hyundai Kona review
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Specifications: Hyundai Kona 1.0 T-GDi 120 Premium SE
- Engine size 3cyl, 998cc, turbo, petrol
- List price £22,105
- Target Price £20,668
- Power 118bhp @ 6000rpm
- Torque 127Ib ft @ 1500-4000rpm
- Gearbox 6-spd manual
- 0-60mph 10.4sec
- Top speed 112mph
- Gov't fuel economy 44.1mpg (WLTP)
- CO2 emissions 125g/km
Specifications: Seat Arona 1.0 TSI 115 FR Sport
- Engine size 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
- List price £21,200
- Target Price £19,676
- Power 114bhp @ 5000-5500rpm
- Torque 148Ib ft @ 2000-3500rpm
- Gearbox 6-spd manual
- 0-60mph 9.5sec
- Top speed 113mph
- Gov't fuel economy 45.6-48.7mpg (WLTP)
- CO2 emissions 114g/km
Specifications: Volkswagen T-Roc 1.0 TSI 115 Design
- Engine size 3cyl, 999cc, turbo, petrol
- List price £22,370
- Target Price £21,348
- Power 114bhp @ 5000-5500rpm
- Torque 148Ib ft @ 2000-3500rpm
- Gearbox 6-spd manual
- 0-60mph 10.3sec
- Top speed 116mph
- Gov't fuel economy 43.5-44.1mpg (WLTP)
- CO2 emissions 117g/km
Read more: The best small SUVs >
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