The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric is an impressive iteration of the popular electric crossover. With its sleek and futuristic design, the Kona Electric is sure to turn heads on the road. The second generation of the Kona Electric is longer, wider, and has a longer wheelbase, resulting in more space and a smoother ride. The maximum driving range has also been increased to an estimated 260 miles, making it a suitable option for longer journeys.
One of the standout features of the Kona Electric is its affordability. While it may not have all the advanced features of other electric SUVs on the market, the Kona Electric offers a competitive price point that makes it accessible to a wider range of consumers. This is especially important as the demand for electric vehicles continues to grow.
In terms of power and performance, the Kona Electric offers two options. The entry-level model has an electric motor that produces 133 horsepower, while a more powerful version is available with 201 horsepower. While the acceleration may not be as exhilarating as some other EVs, the Kona Electric offers a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. It is clear that Hyundai has prioritized comfort and quiet operation in the design and tuning of the Kona Electric.
The Kona Electric also offers two different battery pack options. The base model has a 48.6-kWh battery with an estimated range of 200 miles, while a larger 64.8-kWh battery is available, increasing the range to 260 miles. In real-world testing, the Kona Electric achieved a range of 230 miles with the larger battery pack. Additionally, Hyundai claims that the Kona Electric can recharge its battery pack from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 43 minutes during DC charging.
Inside the cabin, the Kona Electric has received a significant upgrade in terms of fit and finish. The interior space has been opened up with a floating horizontal center pad, creating a more spacious and modern feel. Ambient lighting adds a touch of personalization and moodiness to the cabin, elevating the overall design. The Kona Electric also offers a small front trunk for storing charging cables, as well as a larger cargo area behind the rear seats.
In terms of technology, the Kona Electric is equipped with two 12.3-inch displays for vehicle information and infotainment. This new seamless unit replaces the previous generation’s touchscreen and offers a more immersive and user-friendly experience. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are likely to be standard features, further enhancing the connectivity options for drivers.
When it comes to safety, the Kona Electric offers a suite of driver-assistance features, including automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Additional tech features such as a driver-monitoring system and self-parking are also available. The Kona Electric has received favorable crash-test results from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Hyundai’s warranty coverage for the Kona Electric is impressive, with a limited warranty that covers five years or 60,000 miles, a powertrain warranty that covers 10 years or 100,000 miles, and a battery warranty that also covers 10 years or 100,000 miles. Additionally, Hyundai offers a three-year/36,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan, which includes tire rotation, cabin air-filter changes, and various system inspections.
Overall, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric is a compelling option in the electric crossover market. With its attractive design, competitive pricing, and impressive range, it offers a strong value proposition for consumers. While it may not have the same level of acceleration as some other EVs, the Kona Electric excels in comfort and quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for daily commuting and longer journeys. With its advanced technology features and strong safety record, the Kona Electric is a standout option in the electric vehicle market.
