The Hyundai Kona Electric stands out in the electric vehicle market with its unique features and value proposition. It offers a base price of $34,270 and secures a 200-mile EPA range from a less than 50 kwh battery. This makes it an attractive option for those seeking an affordable and efficient electric vehicle.

Unbeatable Value in the Electric Vehicle Segment

Smart Interior Design and Modern Infotainment

The interior of the Hyundai Kona Electric is a testament to smart design. It features a latest infotainment system that gives it a modern look and feel. All models come with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a built-in wifi hotspot, and over-the-air update capability. This ensures that you stay connected and updated while on the go. Additionally, the V2L (vehicle-to-load) compatibility in all versions offers up to 3.6 kw of AC power for various uses, adding to its usefulness.The packaging is also smart, allowing a roomy 25.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 63.7 cubic feet when folded forward. This makes it capable of fitting four adults comfortably or five in a pinch, providing ample space for both passengers and cargo.

Performance and Refinement

This time around, the Kona Electric outshines gasoline versions of the small-car family in performance, ride, and refinement. All models except the base SE get a perky 201-hp electric motor at the front wheels, giving it a lean and responsive feel. It drives smoothly and with precision, making every journey a pleasure.The crisp, modern displays and switchgear feel directly inherited from Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 EVs, adding to the overall quality and sophistication of the vehicle.

Fast-Charging and Battery Options

The Kona Electric runs on 400 volts, which is different from the 800-volt Ioniq models and their E-GMP platform. However, its DC fast-charging time of 43 minutes from 10-80% is respectable for urban commuters who take the occasional highway trip.There are different battery pack options available, with the SE getting a 48.6-kwh battery pack and a 200-mile EPA range rating, while the SEL steps up to the 64.8-kwh battery pack and a 261-mile range rating. The SEL models are likely the sweet spot of the lineup for most considering this model, as they offer more range and additional features.

Competitive Pricing and Value

The Kona Electric starts at $34,270, including the $1,395 destination fee. This makes it one of the most affordable electric vehicles in its class. When compared to other competitors such as the dated Nissan Leaf and the Fiat 500e, it offers better value for money.The Sporty N Line versions start at $40,270 and get various sporty cosmetic upgrades plus Bose premium audio, while the top $42,445 Limited versions have a hands-free tailgate, a surround-view camera system, and several additional active-safety systems.However, at this price, it faces some value-for-money hurdles similar to the Kia Niro EV. But overall, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a great balance of features, performance, and price.Competition in this segment is sparse, with only the dated Nissan Leaf, the Fiat 500e (a two-door model), and the Mini Countryman SE ALL4 (which starts at $46,195 and is now a larger vehicle than the Kona) as its main rivals. The overdue-and-delayed Volvo EX30, which was due to start at $36,245, will make an especially strong rival to the Kona Electric when it arrives.Does the Hyundai Kona Electric make a big enough impact on the EV market to top the other four Best Car To Buy 2025 Finalists? Check back Jan. 6.