The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric takes the best of its tiny SUV and applies it to an all-electric version that delivers a smooth driving experience. With a comparable range and comfortability as the conventional model, it’s a great choice for those seeking functionality without sacrificing the convenience of electric power. The Kona Electric will surely delight drivers for years with its smart design. 

Introducing the Kona Electric SUV – a fully electric vehicle that debuted in model-year 2019. In its 2022 edition, the Kona has a refreshed look and an increased touchscreen size. Compare the Kona electric SUV to its competitors, such as the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Volkswagen ID.4, and Nissan Leaf electric hatchback, to see how it stacks up. Professional yet approachable, the Kona Electric is set to be its generation’s premier small electric SUV.

As with the gas-powered Kona, there’s much to appreciate in the electric version of this dynamic subcompact SUV. From its responsive handling and straightforward controls to its extensive safety features and focus on value for money, the electric version stands out in its own right. Nevertheless, some distinct contrasts between the gas-powered version and its EV version must be accounted for. We’ll outline the three biggest differences here.

When you look at the Kona EV, you can immediately spot the sleek, streamlined design up front. This is one of the biggest differences from the conventional Kona, with a charging panel that sits slightly off-centre and a minimized grille. From the outside, it’s clear that there’s something different under the hood of the EV–and it’s worth taking a closer look.

The Kona Electric is powered by a 64-kilowatt-hour battery pack and single electric motor, providing 201 horsepower and 291 pounds-feet of torque. It features exclusive front-wheel drive, while the VW ID.4 offers standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. With formidable power and performance, this vehicle is the ideal choice for professionals.

The Kona Electric’s power comes on fast and smooth, offering near-instant torque that gives it great pep off the line and some zip around town. Compared to the regular Kona, which already had decent stamina with its more powerful 1.6-litre turbo engine, the Kona Electric is noticeably quicker. For even more zip, switch to Sport mode for a more aggressive feel, use Eco mode for a subtler experience, or select Normal mode for a balanced approach.

The Kona Electric’s EPA-estimated range of 258 miles makes it competitive with another small electric vehicle (EV) estimates, such as the 247-mile range of the Chevrolet Bolt EUV and the 280-mile range in the base trim level with the rear-wheel drive of the Volkswagen ID.4. In contrast, the base, front-wheel-drive-only Nissan Leaf offers only 149 miles of range while the Leaf Plus is rated up to 215 miles due to having a larger battery. All three modes – electric, hybrid and petrol – significantly affect energy usage and, consequently, the range of the car.

With a 7.2-kilowatt onboard charger, the Kona can achieve a full battery charge from 10% in approximately nine hours with a Level 2 charger rated 32 amps or higher (the setup I have at home). Hyundai reports that an 80% charge from 10% can be accomplished in an efficient 47 minutes with a public DC fast charger, which has yet to be tested.

The Kona Electric is an incredibly efficient vehicle, with a remarkable 28 kWh per 100 miles rating. This efficiency pays off in cost of operation and charging speed, replenishing miles of range much quicker than some of its competitors. Unsurprisingly, it recently earned its spot at No. 4 on our list of the top 10 most efficient electric vehicles, with the Bolt EUV taking seventh with 29 kWh per 100 miles and the ID.4 and Leaf missing out on the top 10.

The driving experience of the EV is considerably distinct from that of the gasoline version – not worse, just different. Whilst the regular Kona emits a loud, gruff sound, the EV produces a much more subtle humming, similar to other electric vehicles. Furthermore, the ride in the EV may be firmer than that of the gas car – though still not to the point of being uncomfortable – perhaps due to the low-rolling-resistance tires. Unfortunately, an overly strong or poorly sorted ride quality is a common problem in affordable EVs, although the circumstances are improving.

The Hyundai Kona Electric boasts a distinctively hybrid and electric braking feel, with an added benefit—its adjustable, customizable regenerative braking system captures lost energy and returns it to the battery, boosting efficiency. With this innovative feature, you can ensure your vehicle is performing efficiently and reliably.

Pricing

Cost and availability are the last major differences between the conventional Kona and the electric version. The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is available in two distinct trims—SEL and Limited—with a starting price of around $35,000 (including destination). This is a considerable sum, considering that its non-electric counterpart has a starting cost of about $25,000. However, Kona Electric is eligible for a full $7,500 federal tax credit, which helps soften the blow. This makes the Kona Electric a much more attractive option for those looking to switch to an electric vehicle.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is a superior option for those considering a switch to an electric vehicle due to its distinct advantages. Not only is it available in two different trims—SEL and Limited—with a starting price of around $35,000 (including destination), but it is also eligible for a full $7,500 federal tax credit, making the cost much more attractive. This is a significant difference compared to the conventional Kona, which has a starting cost of around $25,000. Investing in Kona Electric is an excellent financial move which could result in considerable savings in the long run.

There’s one more important thing to be aware of, especially given the nationwide inventory shortages: The Kona Electric is only available in states that have implemented zero-emissions vehicle mandates.