2021 Hyundai Kona Ultimate GDI HEV S-A 1.6L Hybrid electric (clean) · SA71 FNH

A clean MOT history across three consecutive annual tests from 2024 to 2025, combined with a fully retested pass on 25 March 2026 after a prior test entry the previous day, points to a vehicle whose mechanical condition has consistently met DVSA roadworthiness standards. The single failed entry on 24 March 2026 is recorded without any defects logged, which strongly suggests an administrative or tester-observed issue that was resolved immediately and does not reflect an underlying structural or mechanical concern. With no advisories or categorised defects across any of the four recorded tests, this Kona presents an unusually tidy inspection record for a five-year-old crossover, particularly given that hybrid powertrains and EV-associated components such as regenerative braking systems frequently attract wear-related observations even at modest mileages. The absence of any recorded advisories over three test cycles means there is no documented pattern of developing concerns in the usual wear areas of suspension, braking, or underbody corrosion. An average annual accumulation of roughly 8,676 miles places this Kona squarely in the middle of typical usage for its age band, suggesting steady rather than sporadic use. There are no significant gaps between testing intervals that would imply long periods off the road, and the mileage progression across the recorded tests is consistent with regular commuting or mixed driving rather than heavy motorway mileage or short-trip abuse. For a hybrid powertrain, this moderate usage profile is mechanically favourable: the high-voltage battery benefits from regular cycling rather than prolonged standing, the petrol engine has accumulated enough running time to keep seals lubricated and internal components free of stagnant oil, and the braking system has not been subjected to the heavy thermal loading associated with towing or mountainous driving. Wear on consumables such as brake pads, discs, and tyres is therefore likely to be progressing at a normal pace rather than accelerating towards replacement thresholds. Given the absence of any flagged components in the MOT history, a prospective buyer should focus their physical inspection on the typical mid-life wear items that a five-year-old Kona might exhibit but that fall outside strict MOT failure criteria. On a test drive, listen carefully for any clonking or knocking from the front suspension over speed humps and uneven surfaces, as control arm bushes and anti-roll bar links are known wear points on this platform and would only register on an MOT if play has become excessive. Pay particular attention to brake pedal feel, watching for any sponginess or inconsistent response that could indicate caliper binding or uneven pad wear, and verify that the vehicle pulls up in a straight line without steering pull. Inspect the underside for any early signs of surface corrosion on subframe components, particularly around the rear beam axle mounting points, even though no such deterioration has yet been recorded. Inside the cabin, verify full operation of the hybrid system changeover between petrol and electric drive, and check the infotainment and driver display for any warning messages relating to the hybrid battery or emissions system. Inspect all four tyres for even tread wear across and along the tread face, as uneven wear can indicate alignment issues or suspension geometry concerns that would not necessarily be flagged at MOT if within legal limits. Finally, confirm that the service history is complete and that hybrid-specific items such as the inverter coolant and petrol engine oil have been changed at manufacturer intervals, since the MOT record alone does not verify these maintenance actions. Overall, the clean DVSA record combined with typical mileage accumulation presents a low-risk basis for purchase, provided the standard physical checks above do not reveal any developing concerns.