Overview
The Hyundai Kona Electric has become a genuinely strong small EV option, combining a bold new design, improved practicality and a more comfortable driving experience. Starting from €32,695, it offers an appealing balance of price, features and everyday usability.
First launched in 2017 and completely redesigned in 2023, this latest version was developed as an electric car from the beginning rather than being adapted from a petrol model. While it may not be the class leader for range or charging speeds anymore, it gets the important things right. It is practical, efficient, well equipped and offers good value with the right deal. The Kona Electric shows that you do not always need the newest technology to have a great all-round car.
Pros
- Affordable starting price
- Good real-world range
- Spacious and practical interior
- Comfortable ride quality
- Easy to drive in town
- Not very sporty to drive
Cons
- Charging speed not class-leading
Exterior
The Kona Electric stands out in the small SUV market, where many cars can look very similar. The sharp LED lights and full-width front and rear light bars give it a modern and futuristic look.
Higher specification models add features like larger 19 inch alloy wheels and sportier styling details, although this can slightly reduce efficiency. The charging port being located at the front is a simple feature that makes everyday charging easier. It might not be to everyone’s taste, but it definitely has its own identity.
Interior
Inside, the Kona Electric focuses on being practical and easy to use rather than overly complicated. The twin digital screens handle the infotainment system and driver information, while physical buttons for things like climate control make it much easier to operate.
There is plenty of storage space, good room for rear passengers and a flat floor that makes the back seats more comfortable. The 446 litre boot is impressive for a car of this size and expands to over 1300 litres with the seats folded down. Some areas of the cabin could feel a little more premium, but overall it is a very user-friendly interior.
Performance
The Kona Electric is built for comfort and everyday driving rather than excitement. With around 218hp and a 0 to 100 kmh time of roughly 7.8 seconds, it has enough power for most situations without feeling too aggressive.
The 65kWh battery offers an official range of around 514 kilometres, while real world driving will usually vary depending on conditions and driving style. Charging speeds reach around 101kW, allowing a 10 to 80 percent charge in about 40 minutes. It is not the fastest charging EV anymore, but it remains perfectly usable.
Reliability
Hyundai has built a strong reputation for producing reliable cars, especially with its electric models. The Kona Electric benefits from being on a platform that has already been tested and improved over time.
This makes it feel like a safer choice than some newer EVs that are still proving themselves. There are no major reliability concerns and it should be a dependable long-term option.
Running Costs
Efficiency is one of the Kona Electric’s biggest strengths. EV servicing is generally cheaper than petrol or diesel vehicles, which adds to its appeal. Choosing larger wheels can have a noticeable impact on efficiency, so the specification you choose can make a difference.
Handling
The Kona Electric is designed with comfort in mind rather than sporty driving. It handles rough roads well and feels stable, although there is some body movement when cornering.
The steering is light which makes it easy to drive around town, while features like one pedal driving make it simple to use every day. It is not a car for enthusiastic drivers, but it does exactly what most buyers will need.
Safety
Hyundai includes a good level of safety equipment as standard, including lane assistance, adaptive cruise control and a range of driver assistance features. The rear visibility is slightly affected by the thicker pillars, but cameras and parking sensors help with this.
Overall, it offers the level of safety technology most buyers will expect from a modern SUV.
Summary
- Exterior
- 93%
- Interior
- 90%
- Performance
- 81%
- Reliability
- 92%
- Running Costs
- 95%
- Handling
- 81%
- Safety
- 90%
The Hyundai Kona Electric might not win every category on paper anymore, but it remains a very well-balanced car. It is practical, efficient, comfortable and easy to live with, while still having a design that stands out.
Some competitors offer longer range or faster charging, but they often cost more. If you can get a good deal, the Kona Electric still makes a lot of sense and remains a smart choice for everyday driving.