Hyundai Kona Electric Long Range

Overview

The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric Long Range burst onto the scene as a vibrant and capable compact SUV, offering impressive real-world legs thanks to its 64 kWh battery. It quickly became a popular choice for US buyers seeking an affordable EV that could handle more than just city commutes. Though this specific 2018-2019 production run is now discontinued, it established the Kona Electric as a serious contender. When new in the US, well-equipped versions with this larger battery typically started in the mid-$40,000s, and they now represent compelling value on the used market.

What's New for 2019?

For the US market, the 2019 model year was monumental as it marked the grand debut of the Hyundai Kona Electric! This wasn't merely an update; it was an entirely new, battery-powered variant joining the Kona family. The 'Long Range' version, with its substantial 64 kWh battery, immediately set a competitive benchmark for range and features in the mainstream EV segment. Everything was fresh: the zippy electric powertrain, the unique design tweaks differentiating it from its gas counterparts, and its comprehensive suite of available tech and safety features for American drivers.

Design & Exterior

The 2019 Kona Electric Long Range sports a distinctive and funky design that definitely turns heads, featuring a unique closed-off grille and a split-headlight signature. Its compact SUV proportions are accentuated by protective body cladding, giving it a dash of rugged charm. Dimensionally, it measures 164.6 inches in length, 70.9 inches in width (excluding mirrors), and stands 61.8 inches tall. Aerodynamically styled wheels were a key feature, helping to maximize its efficiency and visually setting it apart as the all-electric variant. It's a compact SUV with a big personality!

Interior, Tech & Cargo

Step inside the 2019 Kona Electric Long Range, and you'll find a modern, well-laid-out cabin with a user-friendly vibe. Materials are generally good for the class, and the unique push-button gear selector adds a futuristic touch. Passenger space is adequate, though rear-seat legroom is best for smaller adults or kids. For your gear, there's a practical 19.2 cubic feet of trunk space, which expands to an impressive 45.8 cubic feet when you fold the rear seats flat. Unfortunately, there's no frunk. Infotainment is typically handled by a responsive touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Performance & Driving Experience

This ain't no slow-poke EV! The front-wheel-drive 2019 Kona Electric Long Range is surprisingly zippy, thanks to its potent Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor delivering 150 kW (around 201 horsepower) and a stout 291 lb-ft of instant torque. This powertrain catapults the Kona from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 7.3 seconds. The driving experience is smooth and quiet, with nimble handling ideal for city driving and enough punch for confident highway merging. Multiple levels of regenerative braking, including a one-pedal driving mode, enhance efficiency and driver engagement.

Range, Battery & Charging

The heart of the Kona Electric Long Range is its 64 kWh (usable) battery pack, which Green Cars Compare calculates to deliver a real-world range of approximately 237 miles – plenty for most daily needs and even some road trips! It boasts an efficiency of around 3.7 mi/kWh. For charging in the US, it uses a CCS Type 1 port. Hooked up to a Level 2 AC charger, the standard 7.2 kW on-board system can replenish the battery fully in about 9-10 hours. On a DC fast charger, it can accept up to 77 kW, getting you to 80% charge in under an hour.

Safety & Driver-Assistance Features

Safety is a strong suit, with this European version of the Kona Electric earning a top 5-star rating from Euro NCAP. In the US, the broader 2019 Kona lineup also received high marks, including IIHS Top Safety Pick+ accolades for models equipped with specific headlights and crash prevention. US versions of the Kona Electric Long Range typically offered Hyundai's SmartSense suite, often including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Driver Attention Warning, making it a reassuringly safe choice for families.

Warranty & Maintenance Coverage

Hyundai's industry-leading warranty was a big selling point for the 2019 Kona Electric Long Range. Buyers typically received a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty, an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, and, crucially for an EV, a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty for the battery system. While specifics could vary, some dealers may have included complimentary maintenance for a set period. Overall, the Kona Electric has demonstrated good reliability, offering peace of mind alongside its zero-emission motoring.