Hyundai KONA Electric

Hyundai did something unusual with the KONA: it designed the electric version first and adapted the petrol and hybrid cars from it. The KONA Electric is a compact SUV that has grown wider and longer than before, with more room for rear passengers, and it is aimed at drivers who want a small footprint on city streets and enough space for weekends away.

Design and space

The front end carries a pixelated horizon lamp that stretches across the full width of the car. Hyundai says the bigger body gives generous leg and shoulder room in the second row. The standard KONA has a rugged look with black wheel arch cladding and a skid plate, and an N Line version is also sold.

Technology and assistance

The KONA Electric has a Connected Car Navigation Cockpit with over-the-air updates, which needs an eligible active Bluelink subscription and a 4G signal. A head-up display projects directions and warnings into the driver's view. Highway Driving Assist 1.5 helps manage speed, distance and steering on motorways. Euro NCAP rated the KONA four stars in 2023.

Charging

The car has an exterior Vehicle-to-Load port for powering equipment from the battery. Hyundai has not published a range figure, a charging power, a charge time or a connector type alongside it, so check Hyundai's trims and prices page before you compare the KONA with its rivals on those points.

Trims and price

The KONA Electric Advance has a 65 kWh battery and is priced from £35,000. The Advance has full LED headlights, 17 inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, a heat pump and heated, power-folding door mirrors. A government Electric Car Grant of £3,750 is available on the KONA Electric, and the Advance finance offer is quoted as including it. Hyundai says the grant may be withdrawn or changed at any time, so confirm the current terms with a retailer.

Key facts

• Battery: 65 kWh (Advance trim)
• Assistance: Highway Driving Assist 1.5
• Updates: over-the-air, Bluelink needed
• Safety: Euro NCAP, 4 stars (2023)
• UK price from: £35,000 (Advance 65 kWh)