2023 Hyundai Kona Electric Performance 48.6-kWh (133 HP)

Vehicle Overview

After unveiling the second generation of the Kona lineup in March 2023, Hyundai released the electric version of this subcompact crossover for the U.S. market a month later at the New York International Auto Show.

The Korean automaker introduced the first generation of the Kona in 2017 and conceived the vehicle in such a way that it could be fitted with ICE and electric motors as well. For the second generation of this moniker, the car manufacturer changed its paradigm and designed it as an EV that could be powered by an internal combustion powerplant. This change helped Hyundai have the Kona Electric available right from the sales start. In the first generation, the ICE-powered version was introduced a couple of years before the electron-powered one. Another significant advantage was the increased length of the vehicle compared to its predecessor, a change that led to a roomier cabin, especially for those seated in the back.

Hyundai adopted a new design language for its cars, and the 2024 Kona Electric followed it. It featured a horizontal LED stripe that delimitated the line between the hood and the wrapped-around plastic bumper. Its headlights mounted lower, flanking the panel that sported the charging port’s door and the trapezoidal-shaped trim on the car’s apron. In addition, the automaker installed the radar for the advanced safety systems just above the chin spoiler, neatly integrated into a black panel that sported rectangular dots.

From its profile, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric still sported the same B-segment crossover stance, with a higher ground clearance than a regular sedan or hatchback. The automaker used body-colored trims around the wheel arches, taming down the vehicle’s rugged aspect. Like on the previous generation, the 2024 model year of this subcompact crossover came with sculptured doors. However, the carmaker’s design team came up with new ideas, such as creating a carved line that connected the front wheel arches with the roof spoiler. Finally, at the back, the car manufacturer echoed the elements from the Kona’s front fascia. It placed a red horizontal LED stripe that crossed the tailgate and arrow-like taillights below the car’s waistline.

The Korean automaker created a cozy cabin for its customers. In the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, customers were greeted by comfortable front seats. 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. Between the front occupants, on the comfortable, mild-bolstered seats, the automaker installed a center console that housed two large cup holders. At the same time, the center stack housed the HVAC controls.

At first sight, the second generation of the Kona Electric didn’t have an upgraded drivetrain. However, the automaker used a new 400-volt architecture fed by a 64.8-kWh battery. This allowed customers to travel up to 260 miles (418 km). Furthermore, the car could be charged faster and allowed buyers to replenish it from 10 to 80% in around 43 minutes. Besides this battery, the automaker also offered a smaller-capacity one, which could still ensure a 197-mile (317 km) range.