Hyundai’s first-generation Kona Electric made waves in the electric vehicle (EV) market, offering efficiency and style at a more affordable price point. Now, the 2023 Kona Electric is set to continue the success of its predecessor with a fresh new look, advanced technology, and unexpected luxury for a B-segment crossover.
Since the launch of the first Kona Electric in 2018, Hyundai has been dedicated to improving its EV offerings. The lessons learned from the development of the Ioniq 5 and 6 have informed the creation of the new Kona Electric, resulting in a more complete package at an attractive price.
In the UK, the range starts at £34,995, while in the US, it’s under $35,000. The “standard” model comes with a 48.4-kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 234 miles. It is equipped with a 154-bhp motor that can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 101 mph. The lineup also includes a Long Range version with a 65.4-kWh battery, offering a claimed range of 319 miles. This model has a more powerful 215-bhp motor, enabling it to go from 0 to 62 mph in 7.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 107 mph. Both models have 188 lb ft of torque.
While the Kona Electric doesn’t have the 800-volt architecture found in the Ioniq 5 and 6, it does have a 400-volt system. Interestingly, this is the same voltage used in the Rolls-Royce Spectre EV. The Kona Electric can charge from 10 to 80 percent in a little over 40 minutes. Additionally, both battery options come with vehicle-to-load technology, allowing owners to power devices using a household wall socket.
In terms of design, Hyundai’s design team has once again excelled with the Kona Electric. Its futuristic appearance, reminiscent of a First Order Stormtrooper, is sure to turn heads and make it a standout in parking lots. The car features a body-width light bar at the front and hidden sensors in the front bumper, adding to its sleek aesthetic.
The Kona Electric isn’t just stylish; it also prioritizes safety. It is equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety technology, including lane-keep assists, highway driving assists, forward collision avoidance assists, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic assists, and a 360-degree parking setup. The car can also read road signs, monitor driver attentiveness, and ensure both hands are on the wheel, making it exceedingly difficult to crash.
However, some users may find the safety features to be overly sensitive and irritating. For example, if you look away from the road for too long, the car will sound an alarm and flash a warning light. Similarly, resting your hands too lightly on the wheel or indicating to change lanes can trigger unnecessary alerts. While these features are designed to enhance safety, they can be perceived as excessive by some drivers.
Overall, the 2023 Kona Electric is a noteworthy addition to the EV market. With its improved range, advanced technology, and attractive design, it offers a compelling option for those looking to embrace electric motoring without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a Tesla enthusiast or simply interested in joining the electric revolution, the Kona Electric is worth considering.
