2022 Hyundai Kona Premium GDI HEV S-A 1.6L Hybrid electric · AV22 SWY

The most recent DVSA MOT test was conducted on 26 June 2026 and resulted in a PASS classification, although two items were recorded against the vehicle. A wiper blade was identified as defective under the minor defect category, and the front tyres were flagged with an advisory for slight damage, cracking, or perishing. The previous test dated 26 June 2025 was a clean pass with no advisories or defects recorded. While the vehicle remains roadworthy and the absence of any major or dangerous failures is positive, the emergence of tyre deterioration and a wiper blade issue after a completely clean prior test suggests that age-related wear is beginning to manifest on items subject to environmental exposure and UV degradation. The trend is not one of worsening mechanical condition but rather the early signs of consumable and rubber-component ageing that one would reasonably expect on a four-year-old hybrid crossover. The recorded mileage of 40,950 miles over a four-year registration period equates to an average of approximately 10,238 miles annually, which sits comfortably within the typical usage bracket for a privately or lightly fleet-operated vehicle. There are no recorded mileage gaps between consecutive tests that would suggest extended periods of standing or, conversely, any rapid accumulation that might indicate high commercial or motorway use. This consistent and moderate usage pattern is generally favourable for a hybrid powertrain, as regular running helps maintain battery conditioning in both the high-voltage traction pack and the 12V auxiliary system, while also preventing the brake discs from corroding excessively through lack of rotation. However, even moderate annual mileage does not eliminate the need to consider calendar-based servicing of items such as brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid, all of which degrade with time regardless of distance covered. Given the advisory recorded on the front tyres for cracking and perishing, a prospective buyer should carry out a close physical examination of the sidewalls and tread surfaces for evidence of UV-induced dry rot, small surface cracks, or bulges, all of which can be symptomatic of ageing rubber compounds even when the tread depth remains legal. On a test drive, pay close attention to any tramline vibration through the steering wheel at speed, which may indicate tyre deformation, and listen for a faint drone or hum that could point to uneven sidewall stiffness. It is also prudent to check the manufacturing date stamped on the tyre sidewall, as tyres fitted new at the factory may now be six years old by the time of purchase, and most manufacturers recommend replacement after five to six years regardless of tread wear. Furthermore, the previous advisory suggests replacement may be advisable in the near term, so a small negotiation point may be appropriate. Additional inspection points relevant to this hybrid vehicle at its current age and usage profile should include a thorough check of the 12V auxiliary battery state of charge and terminal condition, as hybrid vehicles still rely on a conventional lead-acid battery for ancillary systems, and failure of this component can immobilise the vehicle entirely. Brake discs and calipers should be examined for any signs of binding, surface corrosion, or uneven pad wear, particularly given that hybrid braking systems blend regenerative and friction braking in a manner that can occasionally lead to rear caliper seizure from under-use. Under the bonnet, inspect coolant and brake fluid for age-related discolouration, and verify that the hybrid system displays no warning messages on the instrument cluster during a cold start. Finally, confirm that the service book or digital service record shows evidence of timely oil changes, hybrid system checks, and any required recalls or software updates have been completed, as consistent servicing is the most reliable indicator of long-term mechanical integrity in a self-charging hybrid of this age.