2021 Hyundai Kona Premium GDI HEV S-A 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · RY21 BZP

A pair of suspension component advisories noted during the October 2025 MOT test at 54,295 miles introduces the primary mechanical watchpoints for this five-year-old hybrid crossover, moving away from an otherwise unblemished compliance record that includes a clean pass in October 2024. While the vehicle has successfully navigated its statutory roadworthiness evaluations without recording a test failure, the emergence of wear on both the offside front and offside rear suspension arm bushes indicates that the undercarriage is now entering a phase where original rubber components are beginning to fatigue. This stability in the pass outcome, tempered by the introduction of structural bush wear, suggests a transitional wear phase typical of its age and usage rather than an escalating pattern of structural neglect. Accumulating approximately 10,859 miles per year across its five-year lifespan, the recorded mileage represents a normal, consistent operational cadence for a modern petrol-electric hybrid. This balanced driving profile avoids the accelerated thermal cycling and mechanical fatigue often found in heavily worked fleet vehicles, while equally avoiding the battery sulfation and brake disc surface corrosion risks associated with prolonged periods of inactivity. Mechanically, this regular usage pattern means the internal combustion engine, dual-clutch transmission, and regenerative braking systems have experienced steady operational cycles, though high-wear chassis components have still borne the brunt of standard UK road surfaces over nearly 55,000 miles. During a static inspection and dynamic road test, prospective buyers must direct their attention strictly to the flagged offside front and offside rear trailing arm bushes to assess the physical extent of the wear. On the road, listen closely for sharp knocks, dull clunks, or rubber squeaks emanating from the front and rear corners when traversing speed humps, potholes, or uneven tarmac. Pay attention to straight-line tracking and whether the rear end feels unsettled or twitchy through high-speed directional changes, as fatigued trailing arm bushes can compromise rear geometry alignment and stability. Beyond the suspension linkages, the hybrid powertrain and braking systems warrant careful evaluation given the mileage accumulation. Listen for any unusual whines or electrical hums from the electric motor and inverter during acceleration and deceleration, and ensure the transition between regenerative braking and friction braking feels smooth without any lateral pull, grinding, or excessive pedal travel. A thorough visual inspection of the underside on a vehicle lift should confirm whether the advisory-noted bush wear is isolated to the offside components or if symmetrical nearside wear is beginning to develop, ensuring all necessary suspension repairs can be budgeted for accordingly.