2022 Hyundai Kona Limited: The Brand’s Affordable All-Electric Subcompact Crossover

 

Highlight: According to Hyundai, the Kona was the first Hyundai SUV available with a fully-electrified powertrain in the U.S.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $43,840 (Base SEL): $34,375 

Seating Capacity: 4 (Hyundai says 5)

Standard Safety Features: air bags; ABS; rear view camera; forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection; automatic high beam assist; an electronic blind-spot collision avoidance assist with a rear cross-traffic; traction control system; a lane keep assist system; a radar activated stop-and-go system; a lane following assist system; a stability system; a hill start assist system; tire pressure monitoring system; a parking distance warning system; and a tire mobility kit

Standard Equipment (SEL): 17-inch wheels; a 10-inch digital instrument cluster with EV technology display; steering wheel-mounted cruise control; manual adjustable front seats; cloth seats; a manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel; automatic temperature control; dual level cargo floor; proximity key with a detachable valet key; and a push-button start system

Standard Equipment (Limited): a battery heating system; power tilt-and-slide sunroof; leather-trimmed seats; 8-way power driver’s seat; leather-wrapped steering wheel; heated steering wheel; heated front seats; air-ventilated front seats; a digital key for vehicle operation; 8-speaker system with an external amp; wireless device charging port; smart cruise control system with stop-and-go control; highway assist system; LED headlights; LED taillights; ambient interior lighting; rain-sensing windshield wipers; and a rearview mirror with HomeLink technology

Options: 

Carpeted floor mats

Cactus fern w/ black roof (paint option)

Premium light gray body cladding

Bumper Applique

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: a 6-speaker AM/FM/HD SiriusXM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Limited Only

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Electric Vehicle System Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles

Horsepower: 201-hp

Standard Fuel Mileage: 132e-city/108e-hwy (all models)

What’s New:  After joining the Hyundai line up in the 2019. the Kona EV has been refreshed both inside and out for the 2022 model year.

Pros:

An all-electric vehicle

Capable of accepting a Level 2 or Level 3 charging system

A stylish design

An affordable EV for the masses

No need of range anxiety here!

Fuel driving range of 258 miles

Low maintenance

No gasoline required

A high level of standard safety features

A new 10-inch digital cluster screen

Easy to maneuver

Ability to seat up to five occupants

USB outlets for rear occupants

Great power- Horsepower

Options such as power sunroof, leather seats, ventilated front seats and a power driver’s seat

Heat and ventilation system designed for the driver’s side only to maximize energy efficiency

Wireless charging available

Great visibility

Seemingly great fit and finish

But: 

No longer eligible for the $7,500 tax credit

Tight interior squeeze being that it’s a subcompact vehicle

Only one tire size option; how about adding 18-inch wheels

Verdict:  Since 2019, the peppy subcompact Kona EV has been a player in the compact crossover segment, making it one of the most affordable battery electric vehicles (BEV). 

The 2022 Kona EV with its styling updates is available in two trims. The BEV has a driving range of 258 miles, which literally reduces range anxiety. Moreover, the subcompact crossover, which snugly accommodates four, is compatible with using both Level 2 and Level 3/DC Quick charge charging systems.

Furthermore, the highly equipped vehicle, which is easy to maneuver due to its size, is available with such features ranging from wireless charging to ventilated seats to leather seats.

So, for buyers who are ready to take the plunge in to the EV lane, the Kona EV, which has been around since 2019, is a worthy competitor to consider.

Competition Subcompact and Compact: Chevrolet Bolt EUV; Kia Niro EV; Mazda MX30 and Volkswagen ID.4