2024 HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC LIMITED LIKES & DISLIKES

EV Channels Review

The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Limited offers a refreshed design with styling cues from Hyundai's Ioniq line, which the reviewer generally appreciates, though the specific 'Meta Blue Pearl' color is not a favorite. Key dislikes include the confusing key fob and door handle operation, the exterior 'electric' badging which the reviewer feels is unnecessary and potentially invites road rage, and the hard plastic upper door panels which detract from the premium feel expected in a Limited trim. Positives highlighted are the improved 11kW Level 2 charging support, the practical and spacious trunk, the well-integrated front charging port, and the pleasant interior materials (aside from the aforementioned hard plastics), particularly the physical climate controls and the open center console design. The reviewer notes that the real-world efficiency is similar to the outgoing model, averaging 3.3 miles per kWh overall and 3.6 miles per kWh on the highway at 70 mph, resulting in an expected highway range in the low 200s. Acceleration is described as mediocre with only 201 horsepower, a significant step down from previous Kona Electric models, though the reviewer anticipates a more powerful all-wheel-drive version in the future. The i-Pedal system is well-tuned, and the ventilated seats are strong.