Hyundai Kona Hybrid Review (2023)
Read Caroline's Hyundai Kona review for everything you need to know about buying Hyundai's compact crossover in Ireland.
The second generation Hyundai Kona has just gone on sale in Ireland, priced from about €30,895.
At launch, buyers can choose between a simple 1.0-litre petrol engine or a hybrid.
A new all-electric Kona is expected to go on sale before the end of the year with a range in the region of 500 kilometres.
What's so special about the Hyundai Kona?
The Kona is a small SUV-style vehicle that slots into the Hyundai range between the Bayon and the Tucson. It has been a big success for Hyundai Ireland since it launched here in 2017. Kona is a consistent bestseller, only outsold in the Hyundai range by the mighty Tucson.
Now Kona has grown up. The second generation Kona is a significantly bigger car than before - it's longer, wider and taller - which makes it a lot more spacious and practical than the previous version. It should perform now better as a small family car.
The styling is quite a radical evolution, taking inspiration from the brand's latest models with dramatic lighting and even more pronounced squared-off wheel arches finished in thick cladding for a classic crossover look. It certainly commands attention on the road and there's a premium touch to how K-O-N-A is spelt out across the boot lid.
There are three trim levels available for the petrol Kona - Signature, Elegance and a sporty N Line. There's just two for Kona Hybrid - Signature from about €34,000 and Elegance from about €36,000.
Wheel sizes vary from 16- to 18-inch, depending on trim level.
Inside the Kona
The new cabin also shows Kona's maturity and growing stature within the Hyundai range. The cabin feels more upmarket than before with a focus on improving the cabin quality, design and technology. The finish is excellent with a leather wrapped steering wheel as standard and plenty of soft touch materials, including nice fabric panels in the doors.
There has also been an upgrade in the digital tech. Kona gets a new touchscreen with intuitive design, modern graphics and over-the-air updates. It's easy to sync with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A full digital driver display comes as standard on all but the entry model.
The shift-by-wire gear selector has been moved to a stalk behind the steering wheel, creating more space in the centre console.
All Konas come very well equipped. Standard features include automatic climate control, cruise control, high beam assist and a parking camera.
Elegance models add features like heated front seats, heated steering wheel, driver lumbar support and wireless smartphone charging.
Is it practical?
Yes, the cabin is much more spacious than before. There's a longer wheelbase so legroom has improved a lot. It's also a bit wider so even seating three across the rear bench from time to time should not be a problem. There's a centre armrest, USB ports and separate vents for rear seat passengers.
Hyundai has also improved the boot space on offer. The volume has increased from about 361 litres to 466 litres in the new version. That makes the Kona now one of the best of the segment for boot space. There's also a false floor that can be used to create a flat loading sill.
Driving the Kona Hybrid
The entry into the range is a three-cylinder, 1.0-litre petrol engine with 120hp and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Then there's the Kona Hybrid, which is a 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid with a dual-clutch automatic transmission. It's a standard hybrid so does not need to be plugged in to get the best efficiency from it. With 141hp, it offers more power than the petrol Kona and the smoothness and ease of use of an automatic, which is very useful in traffic or town driving.
The refinement of the hybrid is excellent, aided by the dual clutch transmission that keeps everything very smooth and quiet. The driver is barely aware of any transitions between the EV and hybrid drive.
There are a few driving modes like Eco for the best efficiency, Sport for livelier acceleration and Snow mode for extra traction in low grip conditions.
The Kona Hybrid returns excellent economy, with my fuel consumption averaging at about 4.9 litres per 100 kilometres during my time with the car.
The Kona is smooth and easy to drive, with the compact dimensions and light steering making it feel very agile. It handles the road well, feeling secure and planted. It's comfortable by class standards with just more audible road and wind noise at high speeds on the motorway.
Did you like it?
Hyundai has made a very popular model more practical and upmarket than before. This car has seriously grown up and will now function very well as a small family car.
Elsewhere, the new styling is futuristic but might be a little divisive. Yet it's a car that really makes a statement.
The hybrid is a smooth and agile drive that consistently delivers good fuel economy - without trying too hard. For that, it remains a very good choice in the market and offers customers real options when it comes to finding the best power option - whether that be petrol, hybrid or the forthcoming electric model. It is a brilliant all-rounder that still manages to offer good value in the market.
Model tested: Hyundai Kona Hybrid Elegance
Price: €36,545
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid
Power: 141hp
Torque: 265Nm
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.2 seconds
Motor Tax: €140 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Hyundai Ioniq 6 Review
Read Caroline's Hyundai Ioniq 6 review for everything you need to know about buying Hyundai's new electric saloon in Ireland.
The new Hyundai Ioniq 6 has recently arrived in Ireland and is the follow-up to the Ioniq 5, which is already one of Ireland's bestselling electric cars.
Built upon the Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) just like Ioniq 5 before it, the new Ioniq 6 is styled as a sleek and sporty four-door coupé.
Priced from €48,295, the Ioniq 6 is available with the choice of two batteries, the largest of which can take this car over an incredible 600 kilometres on a single charge.
What's special about the Hyundai Ioniq 6?
Design, design, design! Like it or loathe it, the Ioniq 6 is a stunning and intriguing piece of car design. Hyundai call it a 'streamliner' and it was inspired by Hyundai’s Prophecy Concept EV from 2020.
Ioniq 6 certainly bucks the trend for crossovers and SUVs with its low and sleek, coupé-like design, which also happens to pay dividends for aerodynamic efficiency. The Ioniq 6 is the most aerodynamic Hyundai with a drag coefficient of 0.21 and is incredibly energy efficient, one of the best in the world at the moment when it comes to production cars. Active air flap, wheel air curtains, integrated rear spoiler, and wheel gap reducers all contribute.
The Ioniq 6 53kWh (from €48,295) has a range of up to 429 kilometres (WLTP), while the Ioniq 6 77.4kWh increases that to as much as 614 kilometres (WLTP) in single motor, rear wheel drive versions, with consumption as low as 14.3 kWh per 100 kilometres.
It also comes with 800-volt battery technology, double the industry standard of 400-volt. DC fast charging is possible up to 232kW and the battery can be 80 per cent charged in just 18 minutes.
Is it practical?
The wheelbase is almost three metres in length giving the Ioniq 6 an incredibly spacious, lounge-like interior. Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the floor of the car is completely flat so there is loads of legroom in the rear - it's quite limo-like really. Headroom is not too compromised either for that gorgeous roofline.
The Ioniq 6 has a saloon-style boot opening that is electrically powered as standard. The aperture is not quite as practical as the hatchback-style Ioniq 5 for example but the volume is good - 401 litres with up to 45 litres under the bonnet too.
Inside the Ioniq 6
There's a little more glam to the interior of the Ioniq 6, which suits the executive feel of this car. The dashboard has a simple, horizontal design with beautiful ambient lighting adding upmarket style to this car, especially at night. The pronounced centre console between driver and passenger adds a sporty, coupé-feel to the cabin and differentiates the car considerably from the more open cabin of the Hyundai Ioniq 5.
The doors are slim and minimalist with buttons for the electric windows moved to the centre console. Sustainable materials feature throughout the cabin including floor carpet made from recycled fishing nets.
It feels modern and high-tech inside with a full digital driver display and a large touchscreen as standard with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as over the air updates and a wireless smartphone charger.
In Ireland the 53kWh is available in a well-specced Signature trim only, while the 77.4kWh (from €54,315) gives you the option to upgrade to Elegance (from €62,495) for more equipment or the top of the range Finesse with all wheel drive (from €71,250).
Ioniq 6 also features Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology to use or charge other electrical equipment. Other high-end features include heated front and rear seats, Bose stereo, synthetic leather upholstery and lots of standard safety equipment.
Driving the 77kWh Ioniq 6
The single motor, rear wheel drive Ioniq 6 53kWh has 151hp, while the 77.4kWh with the same layout has 229hp.
Optional all wheel drive adds a second motor, offering more power (325hp) and torque (605Nm) for the best performance of the range - 0 to 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds!
But none of the Ioniq 6 cars are slow. The Ioniq 6 feels swift and agile on the road. The low centre of gravity makes it very enjoyable to drive. It can hold its own in the corners, with fluid, natural steering.
Refinement is very good thanks to the aerodynamic shape so it's quiet even at high speeds on the motorway, slipping through the air effortlessly.
It's mostly very comfortable too with just a bit of firmness over bumps in the road surface. The Ioniq 6 has a five-link rear suspension system and features an integrated drive axle (IDA), which combines wheel bearings with the driveshaft to transmit power to the wheels, reducing axle weight, improving comfort and enhancing handling stability.
There are a few levels of regenerative braking too, which is easy to adjust from paddles on the steering wheel.
Did you like it?
It's a big 'Yes'! The Ioniq 6 is a spectaular car with show-stopping looks that are as functional as they are stylish, and some incredible technology underneath for ultra fast charging and lots of electric driving between charges.
It is an ambitious car for Hyundai, competing in a market for more high-end electric cars like the Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 2. But the Hyundai has a true executive feel, excellent battery technology and rapid charging that means it can absolutely compete.
Model tested: Hyundai Ioniq 6 Elegance 77kWh
Price: €62,495
Battery: 77.4kWh
Range: 614 km (WLTP)
Power: 229hp
Torque: 350Nm
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.4 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review
Read Caroline's Hyundai Santa Fe review for everything you need to know about buying Hyundai's flagship SUV in Ireland.
In 2021, Hyundai launched a new version of the popular Santa Fe seven seat SUV in Ireland.
The big news for the launch of this new model is the arrival of a new plug-in hybrid to the Santa Fe range.
With pricing starting from €56,445, the Hyundai Santa Fe plug-in hybrid is now the entry into the Santa Fe range. The Premium trim version with more equipment is available from €60,445.
Hyundai will also sell you a diesel Santa Fe from €64,895, with diesel four wheel drive models priced from €69,995.
What's so special about the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Hyundai Santa Fe is following the move in the industry towards electrification. Hyundai's largest SUV is now available for the very first time as a plug-in hybrid on the Irish market.
But for drivers where diesel still makes a lot of sense, that's available in the range too.
All models for the Irish market come with 7 seats.
The big Hyundai has had some work done beyond powertrain in the latest series of improvements. Everything has been done with the aim of making this popular SUV more premium.
The profile and rear remain almost identical to the generation of the Santa Fe that launched in 2018. But the front end has a new look that is more bold and distinctive than what has come before.
At the rear, there's a new taillight design and a red reflector band has been added to connect the taillights. The rear bumper has also been gently reshaped for a more sophisticated design. The car looks great, with a substantial presence for a flagship SUV.
19" alloy wheels, roof rails and chrome door handles come as standard for the Santa Fe plug-in hybrid.
Inside the Santa Fe
Inside, the interior of the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe has also been significantly updated for a more premium feel.
It works well. There's a new lower dashboard design, a redesigned centre console and a new 10.25-inch touchscreen. There are new shift-by-wire buttons for the automatic transmission. For the first time, the new Santa Fe comes with a Terrain Mode selector in the centre console to switch between different drive modes. There's also a new 12.3-inch fully digital cluster for the driver.
Leather upholstery, parking camera, wireless phone charging, heated steering wheel and heated seats come as standard. The Premium model gets a powered tailgate, around view monitor and panoramic glass roof.
All cars come with a suite of safety equipment including adaptive cruise control and lane follow assist.
In terms of practicality, the Santa Fe has seating for seven, with two extra seats in the third row. The battery pack for the hybrid is positioned beneath the driver and passenger seats, with no impact on cabin or boot space.
As a result of the platform update, the new Santa Fe has 3 cm more leg room in the second row. While there is 4 cm more leg room for passengers in third row. Boot capacity has been increased too, with a total of 571 litres in 5 seat mode.
The cabin is huge, with plenty of headroom and legroom in the second row. The seats in the third row are ideal for children and can be folded down and stored neatly when not in use.
Driving the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid
The new Santa Fe is the first Hyundai model in Europe to be based on the brand's new, third-generation vehicle platform. The new platform allows for significant improvements in performance, handling, efficiency and safety for the latest version of the Santa Fe.
Steering has been altered for more agile handling. Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance is improved through reinforced sound-absorbing systems in vibration-sensitive parts of the body.
On the road the Santa Fe is every inch the premium SUV with a smooth and refined drive, no matter the road surface. It handles well for a large SUV, with great visibility all round.
The Santa Fe plug-in hybrid uses a 1.6-litre T-GDi ‘Smartstream’ petrol engine paired with a 66.9 kW electric motor drawing its power from a 13.8 kWh battery. It's available with four-wheel drive and the total power output is 265 PS, while combined torque is 350 Nm. It's paired to a newly-developed 6-speed automatic transmission.
Plug-in hybrid happens to suit the Santa Fe very well, with plenty of power available and a serene cabin experience. This model has the advantage of allowing you to charge the Santa Fe at home for example, and then drive it electric for a range of up to 58 km. This is ideal for drivers who have a short commute perhaps or spend a lot of time driving in and out of town.
Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 6.8 litres per 100 km, so with regular charging the Santa Fe will really come into its own.
Did you like it?
Hyundai brings the Santa Fe into the big time.The Hyundai Santa Fe is a salubrious and well-kitted out car that feels like a flagship from behind the wheel.
With a well-appointed cabin featuring the latest digital technology features, Hyundai delivers on its ambition to move Santa Fe upmarket. The new interior design is a big improvement over the previous version of the Santa Fe.
Large family seven seat SUVs like this one don't come cheap, but in return the Santa Fe offers fabulous interior space and practicality.
Interestingly the petrol plug in hybrid is now the most affordable entry into the Santa Fe range. With four wheel drive and a healthy power output, it's a feasible alternative to a diesel SUV.
On the road the Santa Fe is smooth and refined, with the hybrid adding a serene quality to this car. For urban drivers, it's a large SUV with a conscience, running happily on electric power for a range that is ideal to exploit in low speed driving situations around town for example.
The brand is on a roll here with the new generation Tucson still Ireland's bestselling car so far this year and the Hyundai IONIQ 5 the bestselling electric car. With seating for seven, the Santa Fe offers even more flexibility in a hotly contested segment of the market.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid Executive Plus Auto 4WD
Price: €56,445
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 261 hp
Torque: 350 Nm
0-100km/h: 8.8 seconds
Top speed: 187 km/h
CO2 emissions: 37 g/km
Motor tax: €140 per year
Hyundai Ioniq 5 Review
Read Caroline's latest Hyundai IONIQ 5 review for everything you need to know about buying Hyundai's exciting new electric car in Ireland.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5, the first model from Hyundai’s new IONIQ electric vehicle-exclusive brand, arrived in Ireland in 2021. The IONIQ 5 goes on sale priced from €37,995, with two batteries available - a 58 kWh with up to 384 km of range and a 72 kWh with up to 481 km of range (WLTP).
With striking good looks, revolutionary Hyundai interior, long range and fast charging, the IONIQ 5 makes a dramatic debut!
Hyundai as a brand has an impressive pedigree in electric vehicles already with the Hyundai Kona Electric being one of Ireland's most popular compact electric vehicles. The small crossover was a game changer when it arrived in Ireland at the end of 2018, with an electric range in excess of 400 km.
Since then the electric vehicle market has got even more competitive, but Hyundai strikes back with the launch of the IONIQ 5. It's a larger car than the Kona Electric. In fact the space inside is more comparable with the Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai's large family SUV. Let's take a closer look.
What's so special about the Hyundai IONIQ 5?
The IONIQ 5 marks a new direction for Hyundai in design. It is built on Hyundai Motor Company’s dedicated battery electric vehicle architecture called Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which allows it to have unique proportions on an elongated wheelbase.
The IONIQ 5 looks like a concept car. It's a fresh new look for the Hyundai brand, with a futuristic presence on the road. The front of the car has Hyundai’s first clam shell bonnet that minimises panel gaps for the best aerodynamics.
The front bumper has an eye-catching V-shape incorporating distinctive daytime running lights that provide an unmistakable light signature unique to IONIQ 5. Small pixel-like light clusters also appear at the rear of the vehicle. Auto flush door handles provide clean surface styling and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. It's a beautiful car that really makes a statement.
Inside, the IONIQ 5 has a lounge-like feel. The dedicated electric vehicle platform has allowed for an innovative use of space inside the vehicle. There's great width to the cabin and loads of space beneath the dashboard and where a centre console traditionally lies.
It's a new interior design concept for Hyundai - futuristic but functional. Yet it's easy to get comfortable in here. The controls are all intuitive to use. The quality is worth a mention too. It's truly excellent. Everything feels good to touch from the dials and switches, to the inside surfaces of the doors.
Digital technology is on point as you would expect from a trendsetter like the IONIQ 5. Two 12.3” LCD screens give an almost widescreen effect - one for the driver information display and one for multimedia. There's also wireless phone charging for compatible devices, a rear view camera and smart navigation-based cruise control.
Is it practical?
Hyundai pitches the IONIQ 5 between the Tucson and Santa Fe in size. In fact space inside is more comparable to the Santa Fe. There's loads of room in the front of the cabin.
Hyundai has reduced the thickness of the front seats by 30 percent, providing more space for those seated in the second row. You can also recline almost flat in those front seats!
Rear leg room is really excellent because of the stretched wheelbase. The rear seats split fold 60:40 and also slide as standard. There's a flat floor too making it more comfortable for a middle passenger.
The boot has over 500 litres of space and a traditional hatchback-style opening. There's also a handy space under the boot floor to store charging cables away cleanly. There is a small amount of extra storage under the bonnet too.
What's available in the IONIQ 5 range in Ireland?
In Ireland there is a choice of three battery and drive types for IONIQ 5: a 58 kWh, single motor, rear wheel drive; a 72 kWh, single motor, rear wheel drive; or a 72 kWh dual motor all-wheel drive model.
The 58 kWh model on test for Changing Lanes is single motor and sends 170 hp to the rear wheels. There's 350 Nm of torque available, with 0 to 100 km/h achieved in 8.5 seconds. The electric range of this model is up to 384 km (WLTP) and it's priced from €37,995, including all relevant grants and reductions.
The 72 kWh, single motor IONIQ 5 starts from €44,995. The same car with all wheel drive is available from €64,995 with the best performance of the entire range - 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
There are four trim levels in Ireland: Executive, Executive Plus, Premium and Premium Plus, with high levels of equipment across the range. Standard equipment includes 19” alloy wheels, interior mood lighting, 12.3” LCD audio, visual and navigation system with DAB, Apple Car Play™ and Android Auto™, LCD drivers instrument cluster, and wireless phone charging for compatible devices. There's also a rear view camera, LED Multi-Faceted Reflector headlamps, LED stop, tail and turn lamps, rear parking sensors. Highway Drive Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Lane Keep Assist with Lane Following Assist.
Driving and charging the Hyundai IONIQ 5
On the road, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 58 kWh is swift and supple. There's a natural feeling to this car on the road that is very pleasant; it doesn't feel too heavy. It's not designed to be sporty but it is still agile and well-balanced through corners.
The transmission is very refined. The IONIQ 5 is quiet and comfortable on the move with little transmission noise entering the cabin. It's capable of driving long distances on one charge, while being comfortable too for an electric car with a balanced ride quality.
IONIQ 5 features 800V charging as standard, which makes it one of the best EVs on the market right now for charging. Of course this depends on the infrastructure available to you but the IONIQ 5 has a lot of things in its favour. If you can find an IONITY station, you can charge at the IONIQ 5's maximum charging rate of 220 kW, and get 80% battery charge in just 20 minutes.
There is also a powerful 11 kW on-board charger with more flexibility for AC charging. It allows the IONIQ 5 to charge almost twice as fast as a lot of other EVs on the market using those 22 kW public chargers in Irish cities and towns.
WATCH MY VIDEO OF THE NEW IONIQ5 !
Did you like it?
Hyundai has already proven itself as a front runner in the race to electric with the launch of the Kona Electric back in 2018 and its stellar electric range for a sub-premium compact.
But IONIQ 5 brings the game on again for the Korean car brand. The IONIQ 5 feels fresh, new and a generation ahead with its innovative design and 800V fast charging capabilities.
The 11kW on board charger brings even more flexibility in AC charging and is a great feature to have as standard.
It's no doubt an unusual car, more a hatchback than an SUV. Though the raised ride height will make it popular among drivers seeking a more crossover-style vehicle.
The IONIQ 5 deserves to draw attention to itself with its futuristic design, considering what Hyundai has packed into this car. All things considered, the IONIQ 5 58 kWh is well-priced, loaded with equipment and technology, and a sound buy. The 72 kWh version will bring even more comfort when it comes to range, with over 400 km available on a full battery charge.
The new Hyundai IONIQ 5 is just one more reason why electric is closer than you think.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Hyundai Ioniq 5 58 kWh Premium
Price: €44,995
Battery: 58 kWh
Power: 170 hp
Torque: 350 Nm
0-100km/h: 8.5 seconds
Top speed: 185 km/h
Motor tax: €120 per year
Hyundai Bayon Review
Read Caroline's Hyundai Bayon review for everything you need to know about buying Hyundai's small crossover in Ireland.
Hyundai broadens the appeal of the brand's small car line-up with the arrival of the new Hyundai Bayon in 2021.
It has been designed for Europe and has been given a European name to reflect that – Bayon is inspired by ‘Bayonne’, the capital of the French Basque Country. With on-trend crossover styling, it is now the most compact of Hyundai’s SUV family – joining the popular Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe.
Responding to trends in the market for crossover-style vehicles, the brand launched the Kona compact crossover in Ireland back in 2017 and it has been a great success with electric, hybrid and petrol variants, starting from €24,395. Hyundai now has a young range of compact cars with the new Hyundai i10 and Hyundai i20 on sale here since just 2020.
Where does the Bayon sit in the Hyundai range?
The Bayon now slips in to the Hyundai range just below the Kona, offering a more crossover-inspired design to traditional small cars like the i10 and the i20, with an attractive entry price of €20,795.
Though based on the i20 supermini, the Bayon looks like a more substantial car in the metal with a slightly raised ride height and some characteristic new generation Hyundai design cues like slim headlights and arrow-shaped lights at the rear. It's longer and higher than an i20 with roof rails giving the required injection of attitude for the urban crossover.
Keeping things simple is the order of the day with just petrol power for the new Bayon - a choice of a 1.2-litre petrol manual or a 1.0-litre automatic. There are two trim levels - Comfort Plus and Executive - with a two tone roof option available for Executive models.
Inside the Hyundai Bayon
Inside the Bayon has a simple cabin design that's easy to navigate. There is lots of hard plastic but at this price that goes with the territory and it feels solid and well made throughout. Simple and functional, drivers will enjoy a slightly elevated ride height behind the wheel.
The instrument cluster is fully digital (10.25") while Executive models (from €22,795) come with an 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The interior of the new Bayon has been designed to be clean, roomy, and well-lit with ambient lighting available as standard on Executive models. This is a small car but there is a good use of space inside the vehicle with rear legroom and headroom decent for a compact. There has been a focus on maximising front and rear passenger comfort and increasing boot space, with 411 litres available, excellent for a car of this size.
Standard equipment includes roof rails, air con and Bluetooth, while the Executive model adds 16″ alloys, heated from seats, automatic air con, 8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charger and digital instrument panel.
In Ireland, the new Bayon launched with a 1.2-litre petrol engine with 84 hp and a 5-speed manual gearbox. Motor tax is €200 per year for the Bayon 1.2 manual. The 1.0-litre automatic joins the range in time for January 2022. Motor tax is €210 per year for the Bayon 1.0 automatic.
Driving the Bayon
On the road the Bayon feels light and easy to drive. It provides comfort for passengers over a variety of roads and road surfaces.
The 1.2-litre engine is a simple naturally aspirated affair with 84 hp, while 0 to 100 km/h is 13.5 seconds. This makes it ideal for driving around town where it is smooth and free-revving.
The Bayon feels less at home out on larger roads where the revs run high at cruising speeds on the motorway. It is a four cylinder engine so the refinement is good inside the vehicle with not too much intrusive engine noise. It is a cheap car to run. My fuel consumption averaged at about 5.3 litres per 100 km during my time with the car.
Did you like it?
Hyundai has had a busy year with a number of new product launches including a facelifted Hyundai Kona, new Tucson and Santa Fe. There was also the arrival of the all-electric IONIQ 5.
New Bayon strengthens the compact portfolio while meeting consumer demand for more crossover-inspired vehicles.
The Bayon surprises with its practicality and comfort. It is a simple and straightforward motoring experience in these days where everything seems to be either hybrid or electric.
While those needs are catered for elsewhere in the Hyundai range, the Bayon offers a practical and comfortable small car at just over €20,000. Executive models offer the full digital experience, with even wireless smartphone charging included.
Cheap to run, Bayon is an ideal city car with a little more crossover style!
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Hyundai Bayon Executive
Price: €22,795
Engine: 1.2-litre petrol
Power: 84 hp
Torque: 118 Nm
Top speed: 165 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 13.5 seconds
CO2 emissions: 128 g/km
Motor Tax: €200 per year
Hyundai Bayon Pricing For Ireland
The Hyundai Bayon has arrived in Ireland and goes on sale priced from €21,645 rising to €24,245.
It has been designed for Europe and has been given a European name to reflect that - Bayon is inspired by 'Bayonne', the capital of the French Basque Country.
With on-trend crossover styling, it is now the most compact of Hyundai's SUV family - joining the Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe. Bayon is the latest model from Hyundai to showcase the brand's “Sensuous Sportiness” design identity, with strong lines, slim headlights and arrow-shaped lights at the rear.
In Ireland the new Bayon goes on sale with a 1.2-litre petrol engine with 84 hp. It's available from launch with a 5-speed manual gearbox, with an automatic to join the range in January 2022. Motor tax is €200 per year for the Bayon 1.2 manual.
The interior of the new Bayon has been designed to be clean, roomy, and well-lit with ambient lighting available as standard on Executive models, which also get the full digital look with touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital cluster for the driver.
There has been a focus on maximising front and rear passenger comfort and increasing boot space, with 411 litres available.
New Bayon goes on sale in Ireland in two trim levels - Comfort Plus and Executive - with a two tone roof option available on the Executive model.
Standard equipment includes roof rails, air con and Bluetooth, while the Executive model (from €23,645) adds 16" alloys, heated from seats, automatic air con, 8" touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charger and digital instrument panel.
The launch of the new Bayon means Hyundai has now launched or enhanced seven new models in just 12 months.
The Bayon is in Hyundai dealers around Ireland now.
New Car Registrations For Ireland April 2021
The Society of the Irish Motor Industry has released the latest vehicle registration data for Ireland in April 2021.
7,166 new cars were registered for the month of April compared to 343 in April 2020 and 8,904 in April 2019.
55,207 new cars have been registered year to date compared to 50,138 for the same period in 2020 (+10.11) and 73,030 in 2019 (-24.41%).
For the month of April, 596 new electric vehicles were registered. So far this year 3,414 new electric cars have been registered in Ireland.
Electric Vehicle, Plug-in Hybrids and Hybrids continue to increase their market share, with their combined market share now over 22.61%. Diesel now accounts for 36.86%, Petrol 32.06%, Hybrid 16.66%, Electric 6.18% and Plug-in Electric Hybrid 5.95%
The top five bestselling car brands in April were: 1.Toyota, 2.Volkswagen, 3.Hyundai, 4. Skoda and 5. Ford. The bestelling car models were 1.Hyundai Tucson, 2.Toyota Corolla, 3.Toyota RAV 4, 4. Ford Focus and 5.Volkswagen Tiguan.
The bestselling car in Ireland in April was the Hyundai Tucson.
Light Commercials Vehicles (LCV) saw an increase of 2,385 registrations compared to April last year 231 and 1,798 for the same month in 2019. Year to date 13,722 new LCVs were registered an increase on last year’s 9,500 (+44.4%) and 12,853 on 2019 (+6.67%).
Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) saw 325 registrations in April when compared to 96 in April 2020 and 305 April 2019. Year to date HGV's registrations total 1,223 compared with 1,004 in 2020 (+21.81%) and 1,189 in 2019 (+2.86%).
5,676 used cars were imported in April 2021, compared with 200 imports in April 2020, a decrease on the 8,887 imports in April 2019. Year to date used imports are up 36.4% (24,095) on 2020 (17,666) and down 32.54% on 2019 (35,719).
Brian Cooke, SIMI Director General commenting:
“While new cars sales to the end of April have now overtaken sales for the same period last year, they are still over 24% behind pre-COVID 2019. The investment in on-line selling platforms over the last year and the ability to offer a click and deliver service to car buyers has been a lifeline to the Industry during this difficult time. The phased re-opening of showrooms announced by Government last week has been welcomed by the Industry, and retailers are cautiously optimistic about car sales, both new and used, in the weeks and months ahead. It is hoped that pent up demand allied with the increase in personal savings will see customers returning to showrooms. It should be underlined that car retailing operates in large open spaces, and with low footfall and the ability to social distance well beyond the recommended two metres, showrooms are a safe environment for customers.”.
Hyundai Tucson Review
Read Caroline's Hyundai Tucson review for everything you need to know about Hyundai's latest generation of the popular Tucson SUV, no available as a hybrid and Tucson plug-in hybrid.
The Hyundai Tucson has undoubtedly been a huge success for the Korean brand. Since it launched back in 2004, more than 7 million units have been sold worldwide, with the Tucson becoming something of an Irish sweetheart too. This car really hit its stride in 2015 with the launch of the third generation model. Almost immediately it took a stranglehold of the Irish new car market, closing in on established bestsellers and retaining the title of Ireland's bestselling car for much of the last few years.
Late in 2020, an all-new generation of the Hyundai Tucson arrived. Similar patterns are emerging with this car already securing the position of Ireland’s bestselling car so far in 2021.
What's new for the Hyundai Tucson?
It’s out with the old and in with the new. The previous generation of the Tucson has great notoriety on Irish roads. But the latest model will lift things up a gear. Hyundai is taking it to the next level with bold design and electrified powertrains for the first time.
Convention has gone out the back window with more angles, curves and dramatic light signatures that give the fourth generation Hyundai Tucson the taste of the avant-garde for the first time. Yes competition is fierce in the family SUV segment. The new Tuscon does not want to be vanilla.
With pricing starting from €33,595, the Hyundai Tuscon is moving up a gear. Yet presence, design, technology and quality speak volumes about this car.
Sportier and more dynamic proportions have been made possible by the new platform. On approach the car is characterised by a striking light architecture dubbed 'Parametric Hidden Lights’ that means the lights blend into the grille to give a jewel-like effect.
Inside the new Hyundai Tucson
New Tucson marks a significant change in design direction for Hyundai and the theme continues inside. The brand has done a wonderful job transforming the cabin. The Tuscon now reflects a more premium experience inside. It’s a combination of lots of soft touch materials, glossy digital screens for the infotainment and a digital instrument panel. There's also ambient lighting, and neat design touches like a rather avant-garde steering wheel!
Smartphones connect seamlessly to the infotainment system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The new 10.25-inch screen fills the centre of the vehicle. This is the first Hyundai model to feature a full touchscreen console with everything controlled from it but it is intuitive to use.
There are three trim levels, Comfort Plus, Executive and Executive Plus. Standard equipment includes 17″ alloys, heated front seats with electric lumbar support for the driver, automatic lights, high beam assist, reverse parking camera, 8″ touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and safety equipment including lane keep assist, driver attention alert and forward collision alert.
Is it practical?
The latest Hyundai Tucson is longer and wider than the car it replaces, and the wheelbase has also been increased by 10 mm. So now passengers can enjoy more space inside the vehicle. Boot space has been increased, offering up to 620 litres overall.
The new interior feels open and roomy. There is 26 mm of additional legroom in the rear. The rear seats of the all-new Tucson can now be folded in a 4:2:4 ratio with folding levers located on the side walls of the boot for extra convenience. This is a versatile family SUV, comfortable to travel in with competitive space on board for this class of vehicle.
The clever packaging of the battery for the hybrid means that there is no difference in interior space between diesel and hybrid models.
What's on offer?
On that note, the new Tucson completes the electrification of Hyundai’s SUV fleet in Europe, with mild hybrid, hybrid and plug-in hybrid available as well as a trusty diesel/diesel mild hybrid.
The diesel Tucson range uses a 1.6-litre engine and is available from €33,595. Pricing rises to €46,745 for a fully loaded four wheel drive model. Diesels cost between €210 and €280 to tax in Ireland.
The new Tucson petrol hybrid is available from €37,195 rising to €48,745. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor, and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery to reduce fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and motor tax ranges from €200 to €210 per year in Ireland for this model.
A plug-in hybrid will join the new Tucson range in 2021. It has 265 hp and the ability to drive for short ranges on electric power only.
Driving the new Hyundai Tucson
The latest Hyundai Tucson has been developed and tested in Europe. The conventional dampers on the suspension use a new valve technology that offers more tuning flexibility. A MacPherson strut on the front and multi-link suspension on the rear are designed to ensure good levels of comfort and handling. The Tucson’s steering features a new generation Belt Drive steering gear for more smooth and connected steering.
The hybrid version I was testing uses a new 1.6-litre T-GDI turbo petrol engine, 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission (6AT). The system is the most powerful in the 2021 Hyundai Tucson powertrain line-up, with a combined output of 230 hp.
On the road, we can say that the new Tucson feels more premium than ever before. The cabin ambience is hugely rewarding. There's now a more comfortable and stable drive across motorway, town and rural roads. It’s comfortable for long distance motoring. The Tucson's hybrid transmission is seamless at work in the background.
Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 6.7 litres per 100 km. There is plenty of power and smoothness from the accelerator, with an amazing 230 hp available. The Tucson Hybrid is quiet around town and we think the fuel economy is respectable. But for high mileage motorway users, the diesel will still return the best economy.
Did you like it?
The Hyundai Tuscon has enjoyed an impressive drive to notoriety in Ireland and Europe. This new generation looks set to make this car an even more compelling choice than ever before. This SUV icon has been suitably modernised to help it lead in its segment. And command its price.
The outside of the car is smart and stylish, making a statement like never before. The interior of the car is a revelation, bringing a new premium style to the Tucson and a much anticipated digital upgrade.
This now feels like a design-led car. The ambition of Hyundai is palpable but it’s backed up by real choice in the powertrain department. With mild hybrid, hybrid, plug-in hybrid and diesel available, buyers now have amazing choice in the range. This hybrid gives the Tucson some great credentials as an alternative to diesel.
The Tucson sells itself with a reputation that precedes. But now it really delivers. Tucson can enjoy the time at the top; it won’t be going anywhere else anytime soon.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Hyundai Tucson Executive Plus HEV
Price: €42,195
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 230 hp
Torque: 265 Nm
0-100km/h: 8 seconds
Top speed: 193 k/h
Economy (WLTP): 5.7 l/100 km
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 130 g/km
Motor Tax: €200 per year
Hyundai Tucson (2021) Pricing For Ireland
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson has arrived in Ireland and will go on sale here priced from €32,495 with radical new styling, technology and new electrified powertrains, including hybrid and plug-in hybrid technology for the first time.
The all-new Tucson is the fourth generation of Hyundai’s successful bestseller with more than 7 million units sold around the globe since it launched in 2004. Of these, 1.4 million units have been sold in Europe. That makes it the company’s bestselling SUV globally. In Ireland the Tucson is consistently a top five bestseller and has been a huge success here.
Hyundai’s new compact SUV arrives on the market with a revolutionary new look that follows the company’s new 'Sensuous Sportiness' design identity. There is also a new interior with soft touch materials and a full touchscreen console.
The 2021 Hyundai Tucson is longer and wider than the car it replaces, and the wheelbase has also been increased by 10 mm so passengers can enjoy more space inside the vehicle. Boot space has been increased, offering up to 620 litres overall.
There are three trim levels, Comfort Plus, Executive and Executive Plus, with standard equipment including 17" alloys, heated front seats with electric lumbar support for the driver, automatic lights, high beam assist, reverse parking camera, 8" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and safety equipment including lane keep assist, driver attention alert and forward collision alert.
The diesel Tucson range uses a 1.6-litre engine and is available from €32,495 rising to €38,245. This model will cost €270 to tax in Ireland.
The new Tucson petrol hybrid is available from €35,995 rising to €41,745. It uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, electric motor, and 1.49 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery to reduce fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. It is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and motor tax is €210 per year in Ireland for this model.
A plug-in hybrid will join the new Tucson range in 2021.
Hyundai Kona Hybrid Review
Read Caroline's Hyundai Kona Hybrid review for everything you need to know about Hyundai's popular compact crossover, now with a hybrid engine.
Hyundai hit the jackpot when they launched the new Kona back in 2017. Riding on a wave of success with the popular Tucson family SUV, the Korean brand took a grip on the compact crossover class with the Kona and hasn’t let go since. It’s slipped quietly into a top 5 position as one of Ireland's bestselling cars and trounced all upon the competition.
So what's so special about the Hyundai Kona?
The Hyundai Kona offers buyers an on-trend compact car with rugged crossover-inspired styling and stance. But aside from aesthetics, it also offers buyers impressive choice. In what is still unusual for the compact crossover class, the Kona is now available in Ireland as a hybrid, electric vehicle or with a simple combustion engine (petrol or diesel).
The Hyundai Kona Electric has been a favourite at Changing Lanes since we drove it in 2019. We were impressed with how well the electric powertrain blended with the charismatic crossover and a range in excess of 400 km made range anxiety a thing of the past.
Now in 2020 the Hyundai Kona Hybrid comes to market with a 1.6-litre petrol electric powertrain that means emissions are rated at just 101 g/km. Fuel consumption is quoted by the manufacturer as 5.0 l/100km under WLTP. With the Kona Hybrid, buyers who require a traditional fuel powered car can now reconcile their conscious with a more fuel efficient hybrid.
The new Kona Hybrid goes on sale from €29,050, using a 6-speed automatic gearbox to deliver power to the front wheels. For reference, the Hyundai Kona 1.0-litre petrol manual goes on sale from €21,400, while the diesel range starts from €23,400. At the top of the range, the Hyundai Kona Electric retails from €39,300 including grants and VRT relief.
What's new for the Kona Hybrid?
Hybrids are all the rage at the moment. The Kona Hybrid packs this technology into an already successful compact. On the outside a discreet hybrid logo at the rear. New 18" alloy wheels differentiate it from the rest of the combustion engined Kona range. Yet the Kona's rugged good looks are retained. Along with distinct front end lighting, robust plastic cladding around the sills, bumpers and wheel arches, and two tone colour combinations.
The Kona Hybrid still rides a little bit higher than a standard hatchback. But drives pretty much like the latter - part of its appeal. It's also a practical vehicle. Though being compact by dimensions means that legroom can get tight in the back for taller passengers. Boot space hasn't been impacted and it remains akin to any family hatchback with 361 litres and a flat loading sill.
Inside the Kona
The Hyundai Kona Hybrid has an identical interior to the rest of the Kona combustion engine range. Everything is simple and logically laid out. There are a few additional interfaces to relay information to the driver about the hybrid system and power flow between engine, battery and electric motor.
Hard plastics do feature a lot. Though the Hybrid does get its own dedicated interior colour pack to add interest to what is otherwise a relatively subdued affair. There are white accents around the air vent surrounds and gear shift bezel. There's glossy black accents on the door handles and steering wheel.
There is a good level of standard equipment: 7" touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated front seats, climate control, electronic parking brake, cruise control, rear view camera and wireless phone charger.
Driving it
On the road the Kona takes off in near silence, benefiting from that electrical assistance from the hybrid powertrain. The dual clutch automatic gearbox makes driving in town easy, while the Kona is naturally agile in that environment. It also performs well on larger roads despite its compact proportions, with decent levels of comfort and refinement.
The hybrid powertrain itself uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine, 1.56 kWh battery and 32 kW motor to deliver a maximum hybrid system power of 141 hp and 265 Nm to the front wheels. The bias in the transmission is to efficiency so it would be foolish to expect exciting performance from this car. But buyers should be more interested in how they can save fuel using the Kona Hybrid and drive in an eco-friendly manner. In that regard the hybrid does deliver and with a patient right foot, we achieved average fuel consumption of 5.4 litres per 100 km. Motor tax for this model is currently just €190 per year.
Did you like it?
Hyundai is a brand keen to try new things and embrace trends in the motor industry. In many ways, they are one of the driving forces behind innovation in the motor industry right now. They offer alternative technologies to more people, while creating stylish, practical vehicles that sit comfortably among consumers.
At Changing Lanes, we adore the Kona Electric. Yet the nature of the technology and powerful 64 kWh battery means the price tag still puts it out of reach of buyers of small crossovers.
At the entry into the range, the 1.0-litre petrol Kona will satisfy the needs of many compact crossover buyers. All at very competitive pricing.
The Kona Hybrid offers cheaper running costs. Yet the price positioning opens the field to more competition from the family crossover/SUV segment that may see it overlooked for more spacious vehicles. Yet the Kona Hybrid is undeniably an efficient vehicle using the latest hybrid technology. We look forward to seeing it evolve into 2021.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Hyundai Kona Hybrid with 2 tone roof
Price: €29,650
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol electric hybrid
Power: 141 hp
Torque: 265 Nm
0-100km/h: 11.6 seconds
Top speed: 160 km/h
Fuel economy (WLTP): 5.0 l/100km
CO2 emissions: 101 g/km
Motor Tax: €190 per year