The latest edition of the Hyundai Kona Electric turns heads, and rightly so. It is commencing its 2nd generation as a cyborg-inspired electric crossover with a majorly revamped design. The new Kona EV has grown in wheelbase, width, and length, resulting in a smooth ride, roomy interior, and adequate space for a large battery. Its maximum driving range has also increased to 260 miles. The Kona EV’s price appeals to customers because of its affordability.
What’s new?
The latest model marks the beginning of the new age of Kona Electric generation. It is now more comprehensive and longer than the previous models. Moreover, its extended wheelbase accentuates its utility. Its revamped look makes the Kona EV remarkably different from the outgoing model. It has wide-spanning tail lights and LED lights for traveling during low lights. The theme for this new Kona is pixels. It is a front-wheel-drive-only vehicle that offers a choice between two battery options.
Pricing
The Kona EV’s price starts at $32,675. But depending on the available options and trims, this value can reach $41,045.
- SE: $32,675
- SEL: $36,675
- Limited: $41,045
While SE is the base model, buyers get various standard equipment in the SEL trim. The heated front seats are crucial for areas with low temperatures. So, those residing in colder regions must consider the SEL trim over the SE. Beyond this, the SEL and Limited trims have a bigger battery pack and a power-packed electric motor.
Power, performance, and handling
The Hyundai Kona EV is a powerful car engineered by the 133 hp electric motor matched with a front-wheel drive and a 46.8 kWh battery pack. This battery gives an estimated range of 200 miles. Customers can also opt for the bigger 64.8 kWh battery pack. It will amplify the horsepower to 201 and has an estimated driving range of 260 miles. Both these powertrain setups yield 188 pound-feet of torque. The Kona EV sprints from 0 to 60 mph with its powerful battery pack. These values are quite competent for its class.
Its quick acceleration is praiseworthy. The power-packed 201 hp variant is easy to maneuver around the town and through the highway. It offers a pleasant ride with its responsive steering. Its agile handling is also an add-on benefit.
Battery life and fuel economy
The Hyundai Kona EV’s battery can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent with DC charging in 43 minutes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates its fuel economy at 103 mpg on the highway and 129 mpg in the city.
Interior
The all-new Hyundai Kona EV’s high-tech design and interiors are appealing. It is preferred for its user-friendly tech features and subtle and minimalist design.
Like its exterior, the interior is unique without being too loud. The latest version of this EV has been upgraded, so there is greater interior room than what was available with the predecessor. The cargo space is decent, and the rear seat legroom is also enough. Plus, 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and the front trunk with one cubic foot of volume provide the passengers with more space to accommodate their belongings. In fact, the manufacturer increased the trunk space by 32 percent for the latest model.
Exterior
The plush Hyundai Kona exterior reflects well from its sharp signature light, bold body lines, and parametric pixels. So, it stands out in class. The additional 5.7 inches of length from the predecessor makes the new Kona EV look even more stylish.
Connectivity and infotainment
The new Kona Electric comes with two 12.3-inch touchscreen displays that double as an infotainment system and offer vehicle information. This easy-to-use, intuitive unit replaces the standard 8.0-inch touchscreen from the last generation. Moreover, Android Auto and Apply CarPlay integration come standard. Both displays have a user-friendly interface and appealing graphics.
Driver assistance and safety attributes
The Kona EV offers a similar driver-assistance suite as the gas-powered Kona. It comes with some top safety features.
- Adaptive cruise control
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Automated emergency braking
- Self-parking feature
- Driver-monitoring system
- Lane departure warning with lane-keeping assist
- Highway driving assist (a semi-autonomous driving mechanism)
Other notable features
i-Pedal
This is the latest attribute in the new Kona Electric. With this feature, the customers can indulge in one-pedal driving. So, they can accelerate, decelerate, and halt the vehicle solely with the accelerator pedal.
Bidirectional charging
The Kona Electric has a vehicle-to-load feature. It allows the customer to employ the EV as a generator. So, they can use the vehicle to charge devices or power the necessities in the home during an emergency.
Tips to get the best Kona EV price
Research deals
Check for manufacturer incentives and rebates.
Negotiate
Always negotiate the price with dealerships.
Shop around
Get quotes from multiple dealers.
Trade-in
Maximize the trade-in value.
Time the purchase
Buy at the month’s or quarter’s end for great deals.
Finance wisely
Look for low-interest financing offers and compare lenders.
Consider buying a used Kona EV
Explore certified pre-owned Kona EV options for maximum savings.