Hyundai Kona electric 2024: more than a poor man's IONIQ 5
The addition of the IONIQ 5 to Hyundai's line-up three years ago overshadowed the electric Kona, but the smaller of the two has bounced back nicely in its redesign for the 2024 model year, gaining plenty of interior space and a modern driving interface that's no match for its big brother.
Of course, the IONIQ 5 remains technologically and globally superior. But the appeal of the new electric Kona has soared, and even if it continues to play a secondary role, you shouldn't see it as a consolation prize. Especially if two-wheel drive is all you need.
Futuristic and ready to take on
In our opinion, the design of the second-generation Hyundai Kona Electric is a real success. The model's DNA has been preserved, then elements such as the slim light strip at the front and rear give it a futuristic look - reminding us of the Cyclops character in the X-Men gang. The option of a two-tone exterior with a black roof makes it even more eye-catching.
On the downside, while the overall assembly is well done, the junctions of some panels accumulate dirt over time, a detail that's not without annoyance and requires more frequent cleaning. Speaking of dirt, the charging port still located at the front is handy with all models and charging station locations, except that it gets dirty faster when the weather conditions are bad, for example in winter. And while we're at it, watch out for the battery, whose ground clearance is rather more restricted than the lower body suggests.
On board, the choice of materials and finish are pleasing, if not on par with the IONIQ 5. Bonus points for the absence of gloss black trim, which doesn't stay immaculate for long. As mentioned above, interior volume has taken a giant leap forward: two adults have no difficulty fitting into the back seat, although headroom is something to watch out for with taller passengers.
Also included is the trunk, which is almost as spacious as that of the IONIQ 5 (723 liters vs. 770 liters), and even more so when the bench seat is folded (1,803 liters instead of 1,680 liters). Surprised? For a small family, there's almost no need to compromise. And let's not forget that the electric Kona has finally gained a compartment under the hood (27 liters), for example, to store the charging cable, a windscreen washer fluid canister and a few tools.
It's also our pragmatic side that makes us appreciate the redesigned center console, with its prominent power sockets, a large receptacle for the wireless phone charging tray, intuitive drive mode selector, retractable cup holders and small removable partition. Some would prefer a larger enclosed storage area than the tiny bin under the armrest, for the sake of keeping the cabin looking tidy, but for others, having everything within easy reach is a nice bonus.
The two 12.3-inch screens (standard) are attractive, with the infotainment screen facing slightly towards the driver and powered by a state-of-the-art system for user-friendly operation. The shortcut buttons underneath are much appreciated, as are the temperature controls positioned further down.
Dynamic and surprisingly frugal
On the road, the new Hyundai Kona Electric has lost some of its zest and is less adrenaline-fuelled, thanks to a reduction in torque from 290 to 188 lb-ft (like the Kia Niro EV, by the way). Power remains at 201 hp. Count on 8 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint, at least a good second quicker than before. Our sporting spirit finds the whole thing regrettable, but for the majority of drivers and situations, the vehicle remains plenty frisky and quick. By the way, the single-motor IONIQ 5 (225 hp, 258 lb-ft) takes 7.3 seconds to reach triple-digit speeds.
Ranging from 1,705 to 1,765 kg, the electric Kona has put on a little weight, but its agility is still there, supported by well-calibrated steering. The Kumho Solus TA51 tires are not low rolling resistance tires designed for electric vehicles. However, once properly warmed up, their grip in bends becomes satisfactory. Add to this a comfortable ride, visibility that hasn't really improved and four-stage regenerative braking (adjustable via steering wheel paddles), the most intense of which allows single-pedal driving.
Be aware that the new N Line Ultimate package (new for 2025) increases the wheels from 17 to 19 inches and widens the tires from 215 to 235 mm. Those who choose it can expect a steadier, firmer ride, at the expense of range. Instead of 420 km (officially) as with other versions of the electric Kona, this drops to 370 km. A great deal to think about!
Our summer test confirmed that it's relatively easy to beat the advertised range of up to around 450 km. The dashboard even showed 484 km after a full charge. You see, while Natural Resources Canada gives an average of 18.1 kWh/100 km, our tester was much more frugal, consuming just 14.6 kWh/100 km and matching the Niro EV tested earlier in the year.
To replenish the battery, a Level 2 terminal brings it back to 100% in 6.1 hours, and a 100 kW DC terminal takes it from 20% to 80% in 43 minutes, as we observed. A practical detail: you can check the display to see if the battery temperature is optimal for recharging, and activate the preconditioning system if necessary. Thank you, Hyundai.
How much?
One of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market, the Hyundai Kona Electric 2024 ranges roughly from $49,000 to $53,800, including various expenses but excluding taxes and government subsidies. Note that prices hardly change for 2025, with the exception of the aforementioned N Line Ultimate package, which stretches the range to some $55,000. That's $2,500 less than the most affordable IONIQ 5, which doesn't offer as many gadgets and conveniences.
All in all, the Kona Electric is an attractive proposition in many respects, at least for those who can do without all-wheel drive. That said, unless you have Hyundai tattooed on your heart, we strongly recommend that you also try the Chevrolet Equinox EV with front-wheel drive, a vehicle that our colleague Antoine Joubert found very convincing, and which is similarly priced. The playful MINI Countryman SE 2025 is, unsurprisingly, more expensive.
