On The Market Hyundai Kona Electric: Low-Priced EV Option in 2024

Starting Price: $32,675

The upcoming 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric is projected to be one of the most cost-efficient electric vehicles obtainable in the United States, selling at an affordable starting price point under $33,000 when taking delivery into account. In an industry where budget EVs are hard to come by, the Kona Electric SE looks set to be a popular choice with its MSRP of $32,675 (including the destination charge of $1,335). For comparison, the recently-released Fiat 500e offers a lower price tag of $175, however, its smaller stature and fewer power specifications only permit for 149 miles of range. The Chevrolet Bolt EV additionally costs less, although its production will cease in 2023.

The base SE model ships with a somewhat lesser 48.6 kWh battery, allowing a range of 197 miles while driving. It also has one electric motor driving the front axle, delivering 133 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque. It has an 11 kW on-board charger that can power from 10% to full capacity in around five hours or, thanks to the 400-volt configuration, it can reach top charging speeds reaching 85 kW, thereby filling up from 10% to 80% in less than 43 minutes.

If you decide to upgrade to the SEL tier, you’ll get a larger 64.8 kWh battery pack with 261 miles of range as well as 201 hp and equivalent torque. Although Level 2 charging time will take about six hours and 14 minutes, fast charging speed is still unchanged. The SEL starts at $36,675 which could be worthwhile solely for the power upgrade and added distance it offers. At this point, Hyundai has not rolled out a configurator just yet, although we assume that along with the power amplification, there are additional beneficial features included.

Finally, the Limited edition brings extra luxury amenities beginning at $41,045. As comparison, the Niro EV, the electric relative of the Kona, starts at $39,600 with the Wind edition and tops out at $44,600 for the Wave package. To its credit, the Kia has a larger battery capacity and superior power from the engine as standard equipment.

The refreshed 2024 Kona selection has grown in the US edition by six inches from its predecessor, granting a boosting of three inches more legroom for those sitting at the rear and providing an additional 33% of cargo room. As well as two 12.3-inch displays coming as standard, employing these screens to access Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto is a new accomplishment from Hyundai Motor Group. Plus, they have also provided a one-pedal approach with the i-Pedal mode.

Customers have a variety of 10 hues to pick from on the Kona Electric,- ranging from Mirage Green to Cyber Gray and every color in between. Conventional 17-inch aerodynamic-alloy wheels come as a standard feature for maximizing range. Inside, for both SE and SEL classes, consumers can select between Black or Grey cloth upholstery where the Limited class delivers H-Tex finishes with either Black or Sage Green shades plus Lime highlights.