Hyundai Kona Play.
What to Check Before Buying.

The Hyundai Kona Play represents the entry-level trim in the range, making it ideal for budget-conscious first-time SUV buyers or those prioritising running costs over premium features. This variant typically comes with Hyundai's efficient 1.0-litre T-GDi petrol engine, offering decent fuel economy around 45-50 mpg, though the three-cylinder unit can feel strained when fully loaded or on motorways. While the Play trim includes essentials like air conditioning, electric windows and an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it lacks the larger alloy wheels and advanced safety features found on higher trims. When inspecting a used Kona Play, check the dual-clutch automatic gearbox for smooth operation if fitted, as early examples experienced software issues requiring dealer updates. Verify the infotainment system connects properly to smartphones, examine the interior plastics for premature wear particularly around door handles, and ensure service history includes the crucial engine oil changes every 10,000 miles. The Play's simpler specification means fewer electronic components to potentially fail, which can reduce long-term ownership costs.

The average used car has 3+ known model faults the seller won't mention.