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2023 Hyundai Kona Electric review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
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Hyundai Kona Electric highlights

Customer rating

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RepairPal reliability rating

(data not available)

Pros

  • Long driving range
  • Quick acceleration
  • Comfortable, quiet cabin

Cons

  • Tight rear seat
  • Limited availability
  • Stiff ride

258 miles

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The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is a fun-to-drive compact fully-electric crossover

The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is one of three fully electric models offered by the South Korean car company, slotting below the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Kona is also one of the few models in the U.S. that is available with both gas and electric powertrains. Completely redesigned for the 2022 model year, the Kona Electric comes into the 2023 model year with just minor changes in feature availability. Hyundai has also increased the number of states where the Kona Electric is sold to 26. Hyundai offers the Kona Electric in three trim levels that top out with the Limited, which features premium items like leather-trimmed seats, a heated steering wheel, and a premium Harman Kardon audio system. All variants of the Kona Electric are powered by a single 201-horsepower motor driving the front wheels and have an EPA-estimated 258 miles of range between charges. Actual mileage will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info. With peppy performance and a comfortable cabin, the Kona Electric holds its own against other electric crossovers like the Chevrolet Bolt EUV, Kia Niro EV, and Nissan Leaf.

All Hyundai Kona Electric years

What is new for the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric?

  • The Kona Electric is available in a new trim called the SE.
  • Full Roof Rack features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The SEL trim now comes with Sunroof(s), Power Seat(s), Front Seat Heaters, and Navigation System as standard equipment.

2023 Hyundai Kona Electric trims

Curious how Hyundai Kona Electric trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

SE:

  • Cruise Control
  • Cloth Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Smart Key
  • Side Airbags

SEL:

Limited:

  • Includes all features available on the SEL
  • Heated Steering Wheel
  • Leather Seats
  • Automated Cruise Control
  • A/C Seats
  • Parking Sensors
  • Rear View Camera
  • Harman Kardon Sound

Hyundai Kona Electric photos

5 reasons to buy the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric

What We Like

Performance: It may be at the entry point in the Hyundai lineup of EVs, but the Kona Electric delivers impressive performance. The compact crossover is quick off the line with excellent response to throttle inputs, and it effortlessly merges onto freeways or climbs steep grades. While the eco tires don’t provide a lot of grip, the Kona Electric is great fun to drive, and at the same time it delivers a smooth, comfortable ride when cruising on the highway or in town.

Technology: The Kona Electric SE comes standard with an eight-inch display, but the 10.25-inch variant on the higher trims is a much nicer offering. The infotainment system is easy to navigate, and the actual knobs for volume and tuning are appreciated. Wireless connectivity for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay® is standard on all trims. All trims of the Kona Electric come with the latest suite of advanced driver-assist systems, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane keeping assistance.

Value: Hyundai is known for delivering good value in its vehicles, and the Kona Electric is no exception. With prices starting in the low $30,000 range, this electric crossover is well-built with a premium interior and a long list of standard features. With its fun-to-drive characteristics, comfortable interior, and long driving range, the Kona Electric brings a lot of value for the money.

What Needs Improvement

Interior: While the front seat feels roomy in the Kona Electric, rear seat passengers will find the space a bit cramped. Installing rear-facing child seats in the back seat can be challenging, requiring the front seat to be moved forward. Cargo space is also on the small side even for a compact crossover.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

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Hyundai Kona Electric features and specs

SEL 2WD 4D Sport Utility

Standard Features

  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Automatic Transmission
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Lane Departure Warning
  • Navigation System
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Remote Start
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Smart Key
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Cloth Seats
Battery details

Size

64.0 kWh

Range when new (EPA estimate)

258 miles

Estimated range today

Powered by Recurrent

The stated battery range data is from Recurrent, who develops vehicle battery range estimates based upon observed range data from thousands of EV owners. Actual battery range will vary depending on a number of factors, including the use, age, condition, trim level, wheel/tire size, and maintenance of the vehicle.
Recurrent estimates are provided by Recurrent and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. Estimates based on Recurrent data as of July 3, 2023. Learn more about Recurrent and their ratings.  Learn more about Recurrent and their ratings

250 - 316 miles

Est. range in 3 years

Powered by Recurrent

The stated battery range data is from Recurrent, who develops vehicle battery range estimates based upon observed range data from thousands of EV owners. Actual battery range will vary depending on a number of factors, including the use, age, condition, trim level, wheel/tire size, and maintenance of the vehicle.
Recurrent estimates are provided by Recurrent and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy. Estimates based on Recurrent data as of July 3, 2023. Learn more about Recurrent and their ratings.  Learn more about Recurrent and their ratings

246 - 313 miles

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Other specifications

Drive Wheels

Front Wheel Drive (2WD)

Engine size

0.0L

Engine type

Electric

Wheelbase

102.4"

Overall length

165.6"

Width

70.9"

Height

61.2"

Leg room

F 41.5"/R 33.4"

Head room

F 39.6"/R 37.7"

Front tires

P215/55HR17

Rear tires

P215/55HR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Automatic

2023 Hyundai Kona Electric FAQ

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