Launched in the U.S. in December 2023, the 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric has started rolling into dealerships. Recently, I saw it in the top-end Limited trim, finished in the Mirage Green color. Here are my observations about the new electric SUV:
Looks
The Mirage green comes across as a pastel green, combining a faint turquoise tint. I’m not sure if our photos can communicate this, but the black roof, grille, and the trim that runs around the car offer a striking contrast. Seeing it from the back, it pairs well with the satin finish on the sides and rear of the vehicle, enhancing its presence. If you’re tired of the usual Kona EV colors which are just different combinations of grey and black, then you might want to consider Mirage Green.
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, much like the previous generation model, aims to break the mold. Its quirky exterior has started to grow on me, and I think it’s futuristic and funky. I’m no fan of ultra-wide light bands, but I have to appreciate how intricately Hyundai has executed them on what’s essentially a budget crossover.
My favorite exterior feature is the pixel graphic details on the grille and rear bumper. I understand that’s exclusive to the electric variant of the 2024 Kona and seen only on this range-topping Limited trim. I think the chrome molding that runs from the belt line and sweeps up to the spoiler is also a nice touch. I’ve noticed it leading to the formation of an X-shape at the C-pillar.
The Limited grade features LED projector headlights with LED turn signals and full-line LED daytime running lights, 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels, and LED rear combination lamps with LED turn signals. Unlike the base SE and mid-range SEL grades, the Limited grade has a power sunroof.
Dashboard & Seats
I think Hyundai has done an excellent job with the interior, giving it an upscale and high-tech vibe with a low-key design and premium features. I like the sleek dashboard, the dual, 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, the stylish three-spoke steering wheel, and the simplicity of controlling essential functions with an available bank of regular switches, knobs, and buttons. If you were to ask me, the interior looks better in Sage Green than in the Black pictured here.
The Limited grade includes premium features like an 8-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support, heating, and ventilation, a front passenger seat with heating and ventilation, faux leather seat covers, an 8-speaker Bose audio system, and soft-touch door panels. Its infotainment system does offer wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto compatibility.
Also See: 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric: 11 Interesting features that stood out to me
Spec sheet
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Limited employs a permanent magnet synchronous motor that produces 201 hp and 188 lb.-ft. of torque. A 64.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack supplies energy to the motor. On a full charge, it delivers an EPA-estimated range of 261 miles.
The 64.8 kWh battery pack supports charging up to 11 kW with AC and up to 100 kW with DC. Using an 11 kW AC charger, it takes 6 hours and 5 minutes to reach from 10 to 100% charging level. Charging from 10 to 80% level with a 100 kW DC charger takes 45 minutes.
One of the main attractions of the top-end grade in this aspect is that it has Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability. This means you can use the energy stored in the 64.8 kWh battery pack to charge other electric vehicles, power electrical appliances during a power outage, and even power entertainment devices when camping.
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Pricing & Rivals
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric retails at USD 32,675 in the SE trim, USD 36,675 in the SEL trim, and USD 41,045 in the Limited trim. A USD 1,335 freight charge is applicable across the range. The Kona EV competes with the upcoming Chevrolet Equinox EV and Volvo EX30.
An automobile engineer by training, I’ve analyzed the global car market since 2005, with a keen focus on EVs since 2008. My journey in online automotive publishing spans 17 years, during which I have reviewed cutting-edge automotive technologies and interviewed leading global CEOs and vehicle developers.
