In the latest batch of Euro NCAP’s crash tests, Hyundai’s Kona SUV has managed to score five stars, making it one of the safest models in its segment.
With 87 percent in adult occupant safety, 85 percent in child occupant safety, 62 percent in pedestrian safety and 60 percent in safety assistance systems, all versions of the Euro-spec Nissan Juke rival earned the five-star rating.
The Kona which is being evaluated for India will be an all-electric model rather than the petrol and diesel ones that were tested.
The model that was tested possessed an array of driver assistance systems that Hyundai calls SmartSense – such as lane keep-assist, autonomous emergency braking, a driver alert, blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert. In addition to these, the Kona tested comes with nine airbags.
Hyundai’s Kona EV, which was showcased at the 2017 Frankfurt motor show (and is expected to launch internationally at the 2018 Geneva motor show in March) is expected to be powered by a more powerful version of the all-electric Ioniq’s 28kWh battery that develops 120hp and has a claimed range of 280km. The Korean brand is targeting a range of about 384km for the electric Kona.
The model – which is still under evaluation for the Indian market – will be on display at the upcoming Auto Expo, in February 2018. It will share space with a new electric sedan at Hyundai’s stall at the event, along with an i20 facelift and a new hatchback that will replace the Eon.
Rivan RS 
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
