Video Summary
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric can be had as a base model or premium model. The entry-level model can be had with two battery sizes: standard or extended range. The premium model comes with the bigger battery only. The base Kona Electric with the standard range is $54,000 before on-road costs, while the extended range version of the same car is $58,000. The premium is $68,000, making it slightly more expensive than the BYD Atto 3 and cheaper than a Tesla Model Y.Both share 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, dual 12.3-inch screens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a wireless phone charger, dual-zone climate, keyless entry, a push-button start, and a pretty full active safety suite. The premium grade gets synthetic leather interior trim, heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, a head-up display, a Bose premium audio system, remote smart parking assist, a sunroof, and a powered tailgate.
The sharp body creases suit the Kona EV well. Modern and fresh, but not too futuristic. The base model's electric motor produces 99 kilowatts and 255 Newton-meters; the premium’s produces 150 kilowatts. The base has a reported 9.9 second, while the premium reports 8.1 second sprint to 100 kilometers an hour, respectively.
Fuel use or the lack of it is a key perk. The car has a 27-liter frunk and a 407-liter boot. There is also an actual powerpoint to keep your devices topped up, with vehicle-to-load capability and bidirectional charging and 750 kg brake towing capacity and back seat. The cabin experience is good, but there are a few too many hard plastic touchpoints.
The range for standard is 370 kilometers; extended is 505 kilometers; premium extended is 444 kilometers. There is a 84-kilowatt DC fast charging, which will take 45 minutes to get to 80%. Most charge at home.
The drive feel is familiar, but slightly dulled down. It feels a little softer and sensible. The vehicle wasn’t tuned here in Australia, but it still feels well suited to Australian conditions. The steering is nice and confidence-inspiring, but it’s never overly sharp. The ride is on the firm side but doesn't stray into uncomfortable very often.
The Kona Electric is officially a 4-star ANCAP vehicle due mostly to the performance of active safety kit, like the AEB.
The Kona is covered by Hyundai’s 5-year unlimited kilometer warranty, while the battery is covered for 8 years or 160,000 kilometers. Servicing intervals are 24 months or 30,000 kilometers and capped at $520 dollars per visit for the first three services, for a total of 6 years. The reviewer rates this electric car with 7.4 out of 10.
