The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric marks a monumental leap into the future. As it begins its second generation, this fully electric crossover introduces a bold, cyborg-inspired design that redefines the Kona’s appearance. Boasting augmented dimensions – increased length, width, and wheelbase – the 2024 Kona Electric brings added spaciousness, a larger battery, and a notably smoother ride. Although it marginally increases the maximum driving range to an estimated 260 miles, the new Kona Electric remains exclusively front-wheel drive, offering two distinct battery packs with outputs of 133 and 201 horsepower.
What’s Fresh for 2024Â Enhancements?
The 2024 iteration ushers in an all-new generation of the Hyundai Kona Electric. With enhanced proportions – longer, wider, and riding on a longer wheelbase – the vehicle maximizes its utility. A fresh aesthetic sets the new Kona Electric apart from its predecessor with a design accented by expansive LED headlights and taillights, embodying a pixel-themed approach.
Pricing and Optimal Choices
The SEL trim stands out for its array of standard features, offering heated front seats suitable for colder areas. Each of the three trim levels houses the same battery pack and permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor.
Electric Motor, Power, and Performance
Front-wheel drive is a consistent feature across all Kona Electric models, each powered by a single electric motor. While the entry-level generates 133 horsepower, a more potent version provides 201 horsepower. Despite a commendable acceleration, the Kona Electric focuses more on comfort, offering quiet operation and an isolated cabin, tailored for easy commuting.
Range, Charging, and Battery Life
Two battery packs define the Kona Electric: a 48.6-kWh unit boasting an estimated 200-mile range, and a larger 64.8-kWh battery that extends the range to an approximate 260 miles. The vehicle’s powerful 800-volt architecture facilitates a rapid DC charge, refilling the battery from 10% to 80% within 43 minutes. Additionally, the “vehicle-to-load” recharge mode enables the power and charge of other electrical components.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The latest Kona Electric boasts a marked improvement in fit and finish. Hyundai redesigned the interior by creating a spacious environment with a floating horizontal center pad, reducing the division between front passenger seats. Ambient lighting contributes to a personalized atmosphere, enhancing the fresh cockpit design. Despite a small front trunk, the Kona Electric features a substantially larger cargo area behind the rear seats.
Infotainment and Connectivity
In a bid to remain competitive, the new Kona Electric is outfitted with two 12.3-inch displays for vehicle information and infotainment. These displays replace the previous 8.0-inch touchscreen, providing a seamless and larger interface, potentially supporting standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
While Hyundai is yet to officially release all the Kona Electric’s standard and optional features, the vehicle is expected to showcase a suite of driver-assistance technologies, including automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. Advanced features like adaptive cruise control, a driver-monitoring system, and a self-parking feature might also be available.
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The Kona Electric benefits from Hyundai’s reputable warranty coverage, featuring a three-year/36,000-mile complimentary scheduled maintenance plan. With no need for oil, oil filter, or spark plug changes, the complimentary scheduled maintenance encompasses tire rotation, cabin air filter changes, and diverse system inspections.
The Kona Electric is covered by:
- Limited warranty for five years or 60,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty for ten years or 100,000 miles
- Battery warranty for ten years or 100,000 miles
- Complimentary maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles
This revamp positions the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric as an innovative and versatile offering in the electric vehicle segment.
Specifications
Here are the complete specifications of the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric:
| Name | Specifications |
| Vehicle Type | 5-passenger, 4-door wagon with front-motor and front-wheel-drive configuration. |
| Price (C/D Est) | The base model starts at $35,000. |
| Powertrain and Battery Efficiency | Motor: Powered by a permanent-magnet synchronous AC motor offering 133 or 201 hp with 188 lb-ft of torque.
Battery Pack: Choose between a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery with either a 48.6 or 64.8 kWh capacity. Onboard Charger: Equipped with a 10.8 kW charger. Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: Delivers charging rates of up to 100 kW. Transmission: Features a direct-drive system for efficient performance. |
| Dimensions and Spaciousness | Wheelbase: Stretches to 104.7 inches.
Length: Measures 171.5 inches. Width: Spans 71.9 inches. Height: Stands at 62.0 inches. Passenger Volume: Offers 52–55 cubic feet for front seats and 45 cubic feet for rear seats. Cargo Volume: Accommodates up to 64 cubic feet behind the front seats and 26 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Curb Weight: Estimated to range between 3500 and 3700 pounds. |
| Performance Metrics (C/D Est)
|
Acceleration: Reaches 60 mph in an impressive 6.7–8.6 seconds.
Top Speed: Peaks at 101–107 mph. Quarter-Mile: Covers the distance in 15.2–17.1 seconds. 100 mph: Reaches this mark in 17.6–19.5 seconds. |
| EPA Fuel Economy and Range
|
Combined/City/Highway Fuel Economy: Estimated between 113–122/126–136/101–108 MPGe.
Range: Offers an estimated driving range spanning from 197 to an impressive 260 miles. |
Conclusion
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric stands out for its eco-friendly credentials and enhanced driving range, making it a competitive option in the electric vehicle market. The vehicle delivers impressive performance and efficiency in a compact and practical package. While its interior and design might feel somewhat dated compared to newer rivals, the Kona Electric’s strong suite of standard features and affordable pricing add significant value. With its increased battery capacity and updated features, the Kona Electric remains a reliable and eco-conscious choice, well-suited for urban commuting and daily driving needs.
