The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric marks a significant advancement in Hyundai’s electric vehicle lineup. Offering an impressive blend of range, practicality, and modern technology, it continues to be a strong contender in the compact electric SUV segment. This analysis consolidates insights from various reviews to provide a comprehensive evaluation of the Kona Electric’s key attributes, strengths, and areas for improvement.
Key Attributes and Ratings
| Attribute | CarTrade | WIRED | Top Gear | Car and Driver |
| Performance | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Range | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Interior Quality | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 | 3.5/5 |
| Technology | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Practicality | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Value for Money | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Charging Options | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
| Overall Rating | 4/5 | 3.5/5 | 4/5 | 4/5 |
Hyundai Kona Electric Summary
Performance:
- CarTrade: The Kona Electric features a 134bhp motor with brisk acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 9.7 seconds. Its smooth driving experience is enhanced by minimal noise and vibration.
- WIRED: Offers two battery options, including a 215bhp motor in the Long Range variant. Performance is described as progressive rather than aggressive, with a focus on smooth and efficient driving.
- Top Gear: Describes the Kona Electric as competent with progressive acceleration. The use of paddles for regenerative braking adds an engaging element to the driving experience.
- Car and Driver: Highlights the Kona Electric’s smooth operation and easy-going nature, though it lacks the aggressive acceleration seen in some competitors.
Range:
- CarTrade: Reports a range of up to 452 km (281 miles) on a single charge, which aligns with Hyundai’s claims.
- WIRED: States that the larger battery variant offers up to 319 miles of range, though real-world conditions might yield slightly less.
- Top Gear: Confirms a practical real-world range of around 260 miles for the Long Range model.
- Car and Driver: Estimates a real-world range of about 260 miles for the larger battery, supporting this with data from varied driving conditions.
Interior Quality:
- CarTrade: Notes a practical interior with a 7-inch touchscreen and comfortable seating, though it uses extensive plastic materials.
- WIRED: Commends the updated interior design, emphasizing the spaciousness and higher-quality materials compared to the previous generation.
- Top Gear: Observes improvements in space and materials, with a larger boot and better legroom due to thinner front seats.
- Car and Driver: Highlights significant improvements in fit and finish, with ambient lighting and a modern cockpit design enhancing the cabin’s appeal.
Technology:
- CarTrade: Features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and comprehensive safety features like multiple airbags and electronic stability control.
- WIRED: Praises the intuitive infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens, but mentions minor issues with CarPlay activation.
- Top Gear: Applauds the balance of physical buttons and touchscreen interface, enhancing usability.
- Car and Driver: Emphasizes seamless integration of tech features, including driver assistance systems and a well-designed infotainment setup.
Practicality:
- CarTrade: Highlights a practical layout and ample cargo space, though seating three at the rear might be uncomfortable due to the battery pack’s placement.
- WIRED: Appreciates the spacious interior and the flexibility provided by two battery options, making it practical for both daily commutes and long trips.
- Top Gear: Notes increased interior space and a larger boot compared to the previous generation, making it more family-friendly.
- Car and Driver: Observes enhanced cargo area and improved passenger space, making the Kona Electric a practical choice.
Value for Money:
- CarTrade: Considers the Kona Electric a good value, particularly for urban use, though notes high purchase price and charging infrastructure as limitations.
- WIRED: Rates the vehicle well for its competitive pricing and improved features, though suggests newer EVs might offer more advanced technology.
- Top Gear: Finds the pricing reasonable given the updates and features, maintaining the Kona’s competitive edge in the EV market.
- Car and Driver: Views the Kona Electric as a cost-effective entry into the EV market, offering solid value for its price.
Charging Options:
- CarTrade: Details various charging options, including slow home charging and faster public stations. The DC quick charger can charge up to 80% in about an hour.
- WIRED: Notes the 400-volt architecture for faster charging, though it’s not as fast as some premium models.
- Top Gear: Commends the improved charging capabilities, including faster DC charging and convenient vehicle-to-load tech.
- Car and Driver: Highlights practical charging options and reasonable times for both home and public stations.
Conclusion
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric offers a compelling mix of practicality, range, and modern technology, making it a strong choice in the electric SUV market. It excels in delivering a balanced driving experience and sufficient range for most driving needs. While the interior could benefit from more premium materials, the Kona Electric’s overall value for money, versatile charging options, and comprehensive tech features ensure it remains a solid option for potential EV buyers.
Overall Rating: 4/5