Let's dive into the Hyundai Kona Electric! In this review, we're putting the Kona Electric through its paces in a real-world drive test. We will cover everything from its performance and range to its technology and overall value. Is the Kona Electric the right EV for you? Keep reading to find out!

First Impressions: Hyundai Kona Electric

Okay, guys, so the Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact SUV that packs an all-electric punch. From the outside, it's got that funky, modern Hyundai look, which I personally dig. It's not trying too hard to be futuristic, but it's definitely got its own style. The closed-off grille is a dead giveaway that it's electric, and the overall design is pretty aerodynamic, which helps with efficiency. But what's it like to actually drive? That's what we're here to find out.

Stepping inside, the Kona Electric feels surprisingly spacious for its size. The materials are decent, nothing super luxurious, but it's all well put together. The infotainment screen is easy to use, and I appreciate that they kept physical buttons for essential functions like volume and climate control. Nobody wants to fumble through menus while they're driving, right? The seats are comfortable enough for everyday driving, and there's enough headroom even for taller folks. In the back, legroom is a little tight for adults, but it's perfectly fine for kids or shorter passengers. Overall, the interior is functional and practical, which is exactly what you want in a car like this.

Performance and Handling

Now, let's get to the good stuff: how does the Hyundai Kona Electric actually perform on the road? Well, let me tell you, this little SUV is surprisingly zippy! The electric motor delivers instant torque, which means you get quick acceleration right off the line. It's genuinely fun to drive around town, darting in and out of traffic. Merging onto the highway is also a breeze; you've got plenty of power to get up to speed quickly. The Kona Electric isn't going to win any drag races, but it's definitely not slow by any means.

Handling is also pretty decent. The Kona Electric feels planted and stable, even when cornering. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The ride quality is generally comfortable, but it can get a little bumpy on rough roads. This is partly due to the car's relatively short wheelbase. Overall, the Kona Electric is a fun and engaging car to drive. It's not a sports car, but it's definitely more enjoyable than your average small SUV. The electric powertrain makes it feel quick and responsive, and the handling is surprisingly good. If you're looking for an EV that's fun to drive, the Kona Electric is definitely worth considering.

Range and Charging

Range anxiety is a real thing for EV drivers, so let's talk about the Hyundai Kona Electric's range and charging capabilities. The Kona Electric boasts a pretty respectable range for its class, with an EPA-estimated range of around 258 miles on a full charge. Of course, your actual range will vary depending on factors like driving style, weather conditions, and terrain. But in my experience, the Kona Electric lives up to its EPA estimate. I was able to get close to 250 miles on a single charge, even with a mix of city and highway driving.

When it comes to charging, the Kona Electric offers a variety of options. You can charge it at home using a standard 120V outlet, but that's going to take a long time – like, overnight or even longer. A much better option is to install a 240V Level 2 charger at home. This will significantly reduce charging times, allowing you to fully charge the Kona Electric in around 6 to 8 hours. For faster charging on the go, the Kona Electric is also compatible with DC fast charging. Using a DC fast charger, you can add around 100 miles of range in about 30 minutes. This is super convenient for road trips or when you need a quick top-up.

Technology and Features

The Hyundai Kona Electric is packed with technology and features that make it a pleasure to drive. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with a touchscreen display that's easy to see and navigate. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The Kona Electric also offers a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. These features can help to prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.

Other notable features include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, so you can keep your eyes on the road. It also has a wireless charging pad for your smartphone, which is a nice touch. The Kona Electric also comes with Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system, which allows you to remotely control certain features of the car using your smartphone. You can use it to start the car, lock and unlock the doors, and even adjust the climate control. Overall, the Kona Electric is a well-equipped car with a lot of technology to offer. It's clear that Hyundai has put a lot of thought into making it a comfortable, convenient, and safe car to drive.

Interior and Comfort

Let's take a closer look at the Hyundai Kona Electric's interior and comfort. As I mentioned earlier, the interior is surprisingly spacious for a subcompact SUV. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. There's plenty of headroom, even for taller drivers and passengers. The rear seats are a bit tighter, but they're still adequate for kids or shorter adults. The overall design of the interior is clean and modern, with a focus on functionality. The materials are decent, but they're not exactly luxurious. You won't find any leather or wood trim here, but the plastic surfaces are well-textured and don't feel cheap.

One thing I appreciate about the Kona Electric's interior is the abundance of storage space. There are plenty of cubbies and compartments to store your belongings, including a large center console and door pockets. The cargo area is also surprisingly spacious, with enough room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo space, which is a nice feature. Overall, the Kona Electric's interior is comfortable, practical, and well-designed. It's not the most luxurious interior in the world, but it's perfectly adequate for everyday driving.

Pros and Cons of Hyundai Kona Electric

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the Hyundai Kona Electric to give you a clear picture:

Pros:

• Excellent Range: Offers a solid range of around 258 miles, reducing range anxiety.
• Fun to Drive: Zippy acceleration and decent handling make it enjoyable for daily commutes.
• Tech-Savvy: Loaded with user-friendly tech features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Compact Size: Easy to maneuver and park in urban environments.
• Good Value: Competitively priced in the EV market.

Cons:

• Rear Seat Space: Legroom can be tight for adults in the back.
• Ride Quality: Can be a bit bumpy on rough roads.
• Interior Materials: Not the most luxurious interior compared to some competitors.

Final Verdict: Hyundai Kona Electric

So, what's the final verdict on the Hyundai Kona Electric? Overall, I'm impressed with this little EV. It offers a great combination of range, performance, technology, and value. It's fun to drive, practical, and packed with features. It's not perfect, but it's definitely one of the best EVs in its class. If you're looking for an affordable and efficient electric SUV, the Kona Electric should definitely be on your list. It's a great option for commuters, city dwellers, and anyone who wants to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing practicality or fun.