Hyundai Kona Electric | Electrek

The Hyundai Kona Electric is a five-seat subcompact crossover SUV with a 64kWh battery that provides an EPA range of 258 miles. A single 201hp electric motor drives the front wheels, capable of 0-60 mph sprints in about 7 seconds and achieving a top speed of 104 mph. Energy consumption is rated at 120 MPGe. For 2021, MSRP starts at $38,365.

Pricing

The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL starts at $38,365, which includes a host of safety features and creature comforts that aren’t typically provided at the base trim level. Blind spot monitoring, forward collision avoidance, parking distance warning, lane keeping assist, cross traffic warning, proximity key entry, and heated front seats are all standard on the least expensive version of this EV. At $43,975, the Limited trim level adds LED headlights, a sunroof, an 8-way power driver’s seat, and leather seating to the equipment list. The $47,575  Kona Electric Ultimate tops the lineup in price as well as safety and comfort amenities, including pedestrian detection, rain-sensing wipers, ventilated front seats, a larger touchscreen, premium audio, and adaptive cruise control.

Purchase of a new Kona Electric qualifies the buyer for the $7500 Federal EV tax credit.

Hyundai consistently offers special financing and lease offers on the Kona Electric. Recently those offers have been quite attractive for remaining 2020 inventory. For example, Los Angeles customers can choose from 0% financing plus $1000 savings on a purchase, or $1999 down, $199/month on a 3-year lease. Find the best Hyundai Kona Electric purchase and lease deals here on Electrek.

Reviews

Since its introduction in 2018, the Hyundai Kona Electric has received awards from various media entities, including US News & World Report, Car & Driver, TopGear, Edmunds, and Kelley Blue Book.

Mainstream automotive journalists seem to enjoy the spunky acceleration and agile handling characteristics. A number of publications have clocked its 0-60mph time in the mid-6-second range, on par with the Chevrolet Bolt. It’s slightly quicker and much nimbler than the Kia Niro EV, a slightly larger crossover SUV that shares the Kona Electric’s drivetrain.

The Kona Electric was first touted for its best-in-class 258-mile range when it initially hit American shores. This distinction was quickly eclipsed as Chevy updated the Bolt EV’s range to 259 miles and Tesla started delivering its Model 3 with over 300 miles of range. A largely cosmetic refresh is in the works for 2022, which most notably includes an attractive front fascia with a hint of Tesla influence. No powertrain updates are planned, so performance and economy should remain unchanged.