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Overview

It might be difficult to find a cheap all-electric car, but the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric makes it easier. With a stop in the Chevy Bolt portfolio and the Nissan Leaf's approaching retirement, last year's Kona makeover couldn't have arrived at a better time. The second-generation Kona Electric fights far above its price range and presents a compelling argument for picking it over the gas-powered Kona thanks to its completely new appearance and more roomy inside. The ride comfort and range of the five-passenger electric compact SUV have been enhanced over the previous model, and its spirited appearance and EPA-estimated range/price ratio more than make up for any lack of cutting-edge technology. In any case, when was the last time you were challenged to a drag race? It might not be as fast as other EVs, but it's powerful enough for most drivers.

2025: What's New?

The sporty N line trim is a new addition to the Kona Electric portfolio. It has redesigned bumpers, side skirts, and distinctive 19-inch wheels, and it fits in just below the top Limited grade. It gets on the inside. Additional modifications include a new Ultimate Red Metallic color option and the wider availability of some amenities (internal lighting and external power delivery) that previously only available with the Limited trim.

EV Performance, Power, and Motor

Hyundai Kona Electric

A single electric motor powers all Kona Electric vehicles, which have front-wheel drive. The base model produces 133 horsepower, but there is also a more potent 201-hp variant. The more potent of the two was the one we drove, and although the acceleration is lively enough, the Kona Electric doesn't deliver the jaw-dropping experience we've been accustomed to from other EVs. Although the handling is decent, the Kona has obviously been built with comfort in mind. The quiet electric motor and the remote interior make it a comfortable commuter.

0–60 mph times

The Kona Electric, which had a bigger battery pack and a more powerful electric engine, reached 60 mph in 7.0 seconds during our tests. Compared to the model from the previous generation, that is slower.

Battery Life, Charging, and Range

There are two distinct battery packs available from Kona Electric. The 48.6-kWh unit used by the standard Kona Electric has an estimated 200-mile range. The anticipated driving range is increased to 260 miles with the availability of a bigger 64.8-kWh battery. The Kona Electric with the bigger battery pack produced a range of 230 miles in our real-world range tests. According to Hyundai, the Kona Electric's DC charging capability allows it to recharge its battery pack from 10% to 80% in 43 minutes.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPGe

The EPA estimated the Kona Electric's fuel efficiency to be 129 mpg in the city and 103 mpg on the highway. The remarkable 110 MPGe was achieved by the Kona Electric in our highway fuel economy test at 75 mph. Go to the EPA's website to learn more about the Kona Electric's fuel efficiency.

Cargo, Comfort, and Interior

Hyundai Kona Electric

The next generation Kona Electric's fit and finish much improved with the 2024 facelift. Hyundai uses a floating horizontal center pad to open up the interior space and lessen the separation between the front passenger seats, elevating the subcompact EV from an eco-friendly-feeling box. Additionally, ambient lighting adds a touch of moodiness and customization to the interior, which highlights the new Kona's innovative cockpit design. The Kona Electric only has a little front trunk that can hold the SUV's portable charging wires, in contrast to other EVs. Fortunately, there is a sizable cargo space behind the back seats that can hold up to 25.5 cubic feet.

Connectivity and Information

The Kona Electric is equipped with two 12.3-inch screens, one for entertainment and one for instrumentation and vehicle information, in order to remain competitive in the pixel wars. The regular 8.0-inch touchscreen and optional 10.3-inch display from the previous version are replaced with this new seamless unit. Standard features include a Wi-Fi hotspot, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

Features for Safety and Driver Assistance

The driver-assistance functions of the gasoline-powered Kona are also available in the Kona Electric. In addition to autonomous emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, this feature package also includes additional technology like a surround-view monitor and self-parking capabilities. Visit the websites of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to learn more about the Kona Electric's crash-test results. Important safety elements consist of: