The new Kuga is safer and roomier than before. Less fun, but a better family car
Pros Safer, more affordable, more spacious and more convenient than before
Cons Not as fun as it used to be. It's grown up and got some proper trousers...
The Ford Kuga has recently been facelifted to keep it competitive, but its dashboard still lags behind some rivals.With attractive styling, decent practicality and an impressive safety record, the Kuga is a convincing family SUV. It can't quite match the extremely high all-round standards of some of its latest rivals – the SEAT Ateca in particular – but for the right deal it's worth considering.
PROS Good value and well equipped Economical diesel engines Spacious interior
CONS Too many buttons inside Outshone by several rivals Inferior automatic gearboxes
Amongst other family SUVs, the previous Ford Kuga was a good looking car. Now, though, it’s even more distinctive to look at and its engine choices are bang up to date.
Pros Good fun to drive for an SUV Keen price and generous equipment Plug-in hybrid has a decent electric range
Cons Alternatives have plusher interiors Smaller boot than alternatives Poor tow rating for plug-in hybrid
The 2020 Hyundai Kona comes with all wheel drive, and front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic.Adaptive cruise control added to top-trim Kona Ultimate.Small changes to standard and optional equipment.
PROS Optional turbocharged engine provides quick acceleration Nimble handling makes it enjoyable to drive Lots of features for your money
CONS Weak base engine Gear shifts from the turbocharged engine's transmission are often unrefined Interior is trimmed with a lot of hard plastic panels
A few high-end features trickle down to the new mid-range SEL Plus model for 2020. Previously only available on the top-spec Ultimate, the SEL Plus comes with a 4.2-inch color display located between the two analog gauges and a wireless charging pad for smartphones. The auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink is now standard on both the Limited and Ultimate models as well as a new orange interior accent kit that automatically is added to either trim if the Sunset Orange or Ultra Black exterior colors are chosen.
Pros Standout styling, punchy turbo four, packed with features.
Cons Tight cargo space, numb steering.
The 2020 Hyundai Kona is an eyeful, but has nearly everything crossover buyers want in a city-friendly package.
Pros Smart and stylish cabin Standard active safety tech Great infotainment system Decent fuel economy EV version available
Cons Overwhelming styling Lackluster acceleration Unrefined dual-clutch transmission Small-ish back seat and cargo hold Price on top-end models
