2023 Hyundai Kona Electric Long Range 65.4 KWh (218 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Hyundai introduced the second generation of its B-segment crossover, the Kona, in March 2023 during an online event, and the new model was a total change of paradigm compared to its predecessor.

While the first generation of the Kona was introduced as an ICE-powered vehicle, with the electric version adapted to the platform, the second iteration of this nameplate was made the other way around. Hyundai developed it as an EV but with the capability to be fitted with a classic engine. Furthermore, the automaker confirmed its commitment to the electric-car revolution, especially after it had already launched the Ioniq 5 and the Ioniq 6 lineups. On the other hand, the Kona was still destined to be a transition model that could be easily accepted by those who preferred internal combustion engines and those who aimed for cleaner, electric motors. It had a longer wheelbase and an increased length compared to its predecessor, but it still remained in the same segment of vehicles as before, trying to please its older customers and attract new ones as well.

The 2023 Kona Electric was sold in the U.S. as a 2024 model year, and it had a front fascia that clearly resembled the refreshed version of the Kona’s first generation. It featured a slim LED stripe that crossed the car from side to side on the upper side of the wrapped-around bumper. Instead of a classic main grille, the Kona Electric had a puled-out, V-shaped panel that integrated the charging port cover. Lower, the automaker created a trapezoidal decoration that integrated an air intake and sported the radar for the advanced safety systems. The LED headlights had an unusual shape, like arrows that pointed towards the car’s center, sporting the high and low beams and the turn signal lamps.

From its profile, the second generation of the Kona lost the black plastic cladding on the wheel arches. Hyundai adopted body-colored ones, like those on the previous generation’s N trim level. However, the sculptured doors remained, albeit with an ascending line that visually connected the front wheel arches and the roof spoiler. The roofline was sloped down towards the back of the vehicle, followed by an arched tailgate. Hyundai echoed the look of the front DRLs with a red light stripe that crossed the tailgate from side to side, even though it wasn’t used as taillights. Those were integrated into the lower bumper.

Despite the rugged exterior, the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric greeted its customers with a cozy cabin where four adults could sit comfortably. Since the car was designed right off the bat as an EV, it was fitted with an almost flat floor for the rear occupants. Furthermore, the rear split-folding (60/40) bench seat was fit to host three adults on it, albeit not for long distances. At the front, the high-mounted bucket seas had mild bolstered areas and flanked a center console dominated mainly by two large cup holders. At the same time, the center stack housed the HVAC controls. On the dashboard, Hyundai installed a curved display consisting of two 12.3-inch screens. The one fronting the driver was for the instrument panel, while the one placed atop the center stack was for the infotainment system.

Under its skin, the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric, or the Kona EV, featured a choice of two motors and two battery packs. For the long-range version, the automaker promised a range of 490 km (304 miles) on a single charge, which was more than what customers could expect for a budget-friendly subcompact EV crossover.