Hyundai Kona EV

Model Overview

The Hyundai Kona EV is an all-electric compact crossover SUV by South Korea's Hyundai Motor. Developed from the petrol-powered Kona (previously marketed as "Encino" in China), it represents a cornerstone of Hyundai’s global electrification strategy. The first-generation Kona EV debuted in 2018, rapidly establishing itself as a popular pick in the affordable global EV market thanks to its competitive pricing and practical real-world range. Moving into 2026, the Kona EV is currently in its second generation. In terms of dimensions, the vehicle measures 4,355 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,580 mm in height, riding on a 2,660 mm wheelbase. The 2026 Kona EV adopts markedly divergent trim strategies across different regions—the North American market has heavily streamlined its line-up down to a single entry-level trim, whereas Australia maintains a more comprehensive variant line-up. Starting prices in North America are expected to hold at around USD 34,470 (excluding destination fees), while the Australian range kicks off from AUD 46,000 (approx. RM215,000).

Design Language

The second-generation Kona EV embraces Hyundai's latest "Parametric Dynamics" design philosophy. The front fascia's defining element is its split-headlight arrangement, comprising a full-width LED daytime running light (DRL) light bar above and integrated high/low-beam LED headlight clusters below. A body-coloured, closed-off front grille further accentuates its pure EV identity. Along the flanks, clean surfacing paired with a floating roof design and optional dual-tone paintwork (in select markets) lends the crossover a youthful, athletic stance. The rear mirrors the front with its own split-lamp setup, featuring a full-width light bar that echoes the front DRL strip. Aerodynamic efficiency has been thoroughly honed to optimise driving range without sacrificing visual flair. For 2026, the exterior styling remains largely unchanged, carrying over the design blueprint introduced with the second-generation model in 2024.

Inside, the cabin features a driver-focused cockpit layout anchored by dual 12.3-inch digital displays, combining the digital instrument binnacle and infotainment touchscreen into a single curved panel. Hyundai has thoughtfully retained physical switchgear on the centre console for straightforward, distraction-free operation. The 2026 model benefits from an enlarged centre console storage tray. In terms of cabin appointments, premium trims receive leather upholstery and soft-touch dashboard trim. The rear seats offer 60/40-split folding capability, with boot space rated at 407 litres, expandable to 1,241 litres when folded flat.

Powertrain and Performance

The 2026 Kona EV exhibits significant powertrain variations depending on the regional market:

North American Market: The 2026 iteration is restricted exclusively to the SE Standard Range variant. Powered by a 48.6 kWh ternary lithium-ion battery pack coupled with a single front-mounted electric motor, it outputs 133 hp (99 kW)  and 188 lb-ft (approx. 255 Nm)  of torque. Its EPA-rated range is rated at 200 miles (approx. 322 km) . The 0–60 mph (approx. 0–96 km/h) sprint takes around 8.5 seconds, with top speed capped at approx. 160 km/h. On the charging front, it supports 100 kW DC fast charging, completing a 10% to 80% state of charge (SoC) in 43 minutes.

Australia and Other Markets: These markets enjoy a broader line-up offering both Standard Range  and Extended Range  battery choices. The Standard Range variant pairs the 48.6 kWh battery with a 99 kW motor for a WLTP-rated range of 370 km; the Extended Range model steps up to a 64.8 kWh battery and a 150 kW (201 hp)  motor, delivering up to 505 km on the WLTP cycle. Upper-tier specifications (Premium, N Line) see range dip slightly to 444 km due to additional equipment mass.

Chassis and Handling

The Kona EV is underpinned by Hyundai's K3 platform, utilising a front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension configuration. Drive is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a front-wheel drive (FWD) layout. Chassis calibration leans decidedly towards comfort, prioritising ride compliance and refinement over outright sporty dynamics. Multiple drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, etc.) allow drivers to tailor power delivery and steering weighting, while an adjustable regenerative braking system provides multi-stage energy recuperation. A compact turning circle radius of roughly 5.3 metres ensures effortless manoeuvrability in tight urban conditions. Kerb weight comes in at approximately 1,795 kg. Maximum towing capacity stands at 750 kg for braked trailers and 300 kg unbraked.

Cabin Tech and Equipment

The dashboard houses a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen integrated with satellite navigation and BlueLink connected services. The system natively supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity. Higher-spec variants gain an upgraded BOSE premium audio system featuring eight speakers and an external amplifier.

On the comfort and convenience checklist, standard equipment across the range includes dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a wireless smartphone charger, as well as keyless entry with push-start ignition. Depending on the market, higher trims add ventilated front seats, a powered tailgate, a panoramic sunroof, and leather upholstery. Standardised for the 2026 model year is Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) reverse charging functionality (dedicated adapter sold separately), though certain overseas base models have seen cost-driven omissions such as the heat pump and V2L capability.

Safety and Driver Assistance

In terms of passive safety, the Kona EV earned a four-star safety rating in ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program)  crash tests conducted in 2023. Its body structure utilises a high proportion of high-strength steel and comes fitted with a comprehensive airbag suite (including dual front, side, and curtain airbags).

Active safety is managed by the Hyundai SmartSense ADAS suite. Key driver aids include: Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) , Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) , Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) , Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), Smart Cruise Control (SCC/ACC) , Driver Attention Warning (DAW), a reversing camera, and front and rear parking sensors. Range-topping trims add a 360-degree Surround View Monitor (SVM) and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA).

Market Reception and Verdict

Since its introduction in 2018, the Hyundai Kona EV has amassed over 257,000 units in global cumulative sales, with 2023 annual sales surpassing 120,000 units. It has enjoyed notable success in select international markets—ranking second in Israel's EV sales charts in 2025 with roughly 12,000 units delivered. In Australia, while the ICE Kona topped the small SUV sales segment in 2025 with 22,769 units, the electric Kona recorded more modest uptake due to its premium price point.

Conversely, the 2026 Kona EV’s radical line-up trim in North America has stirred considerable debate. Hyundai slashed the range from four trims and two battery sizes down to a lone SE model, axing the 64.8 kWh Extended Range battery alongside popular high-spec trims like the SEL, N Line, and Limited. Motoring media described this apparent "downgrade" as turning a lively daily runabout into a basic cruiser—a strategic compromise widely attributed to cost constraints and intensifying price wars. In China, the Kona EV's domestic forebear, the Encino EV, was withdrawn from the market several years ago.

Within the compact electric crossover arena, the Kona EV goes head-to-head with rivals such as the Kia Niro EV, Nissan Leaf, BYD Atto 3, and Leapmotor B10. The 2026 Kona EV continues to appeal through its nimble urban footprint, ergonomic and functional cabin layout, and handy V2L capability; nonetheless, its modest DC fast-charging rate (43 minutes), subdued entry-level output (133 hp), and selective equipment de-contenting in certain markets mean it faces stiff headwinds in an increasingly cutthroat affordable EV segment.