Hyundai Kona Electric (2023) | Expert evaluation

summary
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a battery-powered compact family SUV that directly competes with the Kia Niro EV and Volkswagen ID.3. This is the second generation version, which will become available to order in the United Kingdom in the fall of 2023.
Unlike the previous SUV range, this new Kona model was designed as an electric car first, and then adapted to offer petrol and petrol-electric hybrid options thereafter. We evaluated those combustion-powered versions separately.
The previous model was highly regarded by the British motoring media and was a hard act to follow, but reviewers agree that the new model represents a significant improvement.
the Carbuyer The team notes that Hyundai “clearly listened to customer feedback” by increasing interior space and making the family car feel “larger on the inside” by installing plush cabin materials and a range of the brand’s latest infotainment and driving assistance technologies.
Like the similar Kia Niro EV, reviewers concluded that the car’s electric powertrain is a highlight. With a battery range of over 300 miles (according to official laboratory testing procedures), Electric drive It suggests the Kona Electric can travel farther than many of its compact SUV rivals. Which car? He adds that the long-range version in the entry-level “Advanced” model is likely to be the better option for most buyers.
High-spec models can get expensive, and outlets also point out that some competitors have faster charging speeds. “It’s unfortunate that driving isn’t more exciting,” he adds. carCJ Hubbard, “But we imagine most buyers would be happy to trade that for the extra space. The technology you can get is really impressive for this class as well.”
As of November 2023, the second generation Hyundai Kona Electric has Expert rating: 77%, based on 12 reviews published by UK motoring media. This is a brand new model, however, this rating could fluctuate up or down by a few points as more reviews are published in the coming months.
Kona Electric Highlights
- Impressive electric range
- Practical and well built interior
- The equipment list is extensive as standard
Kona electric lights
- The range gets expensive towards the top
- Poor charging speeds for the fast charging network
- The alternatives are more fun to drive
Key specifications
Body Style: Small SUV/Crossovers
Motors: Electric, battery operated
price: From £34,995 on the road
Launched: Fall 2023
Last updated: nothing
Replacement due: To be determined later
Photo Gallery
Reviews, road tests and comparisons from across the UK motoring media. Click on any of the boxes to view it.
The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 10/10
“The Hyundai Kona Electric looks more mature than before but adds some Ioniq-based charm to help it stand out. Pair that with a class-leading engine, all the technology you could want and added practicality, and it’s easy to see why it’s a winner.” The smaller battery This only adds to the Kona’s broad appeal.
author: Alastair Crookes
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 8/10
“While the new Hyundai Kona Electric is not the game-changer it originally was, it is a significant improvement over its predecessor and will be difficult for EV buyers to overlook – and not just because of its larger size.”
author: Sam Phillips
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The form has been revised: 65 kWh ultimate
a result: 8/10
“The biggest asset of the Hyundai Kona Electric’s chassis is ride comfort, which is impressive, with the suspension doing a very good job of absorbing bumps and potholes. In terms of handling, although things do get a bit squishy under hard cornering and braking, it doesn’t It can still be fun to drive once you get used to it, and basic grip levels are good. The steering is uncomfortable but precise enough. Perhaps the biggest drawback to the driving experience is that the various assistance systems can be annoyingly intrusive.
author: Sean Keywood
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 6/10
“It’s a shame the Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t more exciting to drive, but we imagine most buyers will be happy to trade it for the extra space and sheer good feel that the interior exudes.”
author: C.J. Hubbard
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 9/10
“The latest Hyundai Kona Electric is more spacious, refined and refined than its predecessor, making it a serious contender for the small SUV throne.” (Andy Goodwin)
author: John McIlroy, Andy Goodwin
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
“Hyundai’s small electric SUV gets a sophisticated new look for its second generation.”
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 9/10
“Although it is as futuristic as it is family-friendly, the second-generation Hyundai Kona steps up the game from its predecessor in almost every respect.” (Tom Jervis)
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The form has been revised:
a result: 9/10
“We’ve always been big fans of the Hyundai Kona Electric, thanks to its real-world efficiency and practicality. But competitors have caught up, and technology is moving quickly in the world of electric vehicles. So Hyundai has moved the game up again, with a new Kona with upgrades almost everywhere. It feels more spacious and is a real step forward in terms of quality and technology.
author: Jenny Buckley
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 7/10
“The Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t the most exciting car on four wheels, but you can easily spot the effort put into this small electric SUV. We think anyone upgrading from the previous version will be pleasantly surprised.”
author: C.J. Hubbard
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The form has been revised: Range overview (including petrol and hybrid models)
a result: 9/10
“It cruises around town almost silently, offering absolutely no audible bumps or bangs from the suspension, with a super-smooth ride quality to match.”
author: Matt Robinson
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 8/10
“The new Hyundai Kona Electric is just as efficient as before, but with more goodies. Well done Hyundai.”
author: Greg Potts
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The form has been revised: Scope overview
a result: 8/10
“The all-new Hyundai Kona Electric may not move the game significantly over its predecessor, but all these little changes add up to a very good electric SUV.”
Read the review
Safety rating
Independent crash testing and safety ratings from Euro NCAP
There is no safety rating
As of November 2023, the Hyundai Kona Electric has not been crash tested by Euro NCAP.
Environmental classification

Independent economics and emissions assessments from NCAP Green Programme
There is no environmental rating
As of November 2023, the Hyundai Kona Electric has not been laboratory tested by Green NCAP.
Reliability rating

Reliability data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by MotorEasy
There is no reliability rating
As of November 2023, we do not have enough reliability data on the Hyundai Kona Electric to create a reliability rating.
Automotive Expert reliability information is provided to us exclusively using extended warranty data from our partner MotorEasy. Once we have enough data on the Kona Electric, we will publish the result here.
Run cost classification

Monthly cost of ownership data provided exclusively to The Car Expert by Clear vehicle data
No data yet
As of November 2023, we do not have independently verified data available for the latest version of the Hyundai Kona Electric. Check back soon.
Awards
Cups, trophies and prizes won by Hyundai Kona Electric.
2023
- Fast Car Awards – Car of the year (Complete Kona Collection)
Similar cars
If you’re looking for a Hyundai Kona Electric, you may also be interested in these alternatives.
Audi Q4 e-tron | Citroen ë-C4 | DS 3 Electronic Time | Honda E:Ny1 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Jeep Avenger | Kia Niro EV | Kia EV6 | Kia Soul EV | Mazda MX-30 | MG ZS EV | Nissan Leaf | Peugeot E 2008 | Vauxhall Mokka Electric | Volkswagen ID.4 | Volvo XC40 recharging
more information
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