IS PLUCKY AND PRACTICAL ENOUGH? | 2022 HYUNDAI KONA ELECTRIC

EV Channels Review

The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is presented as a practical and affordable entry into the EV market, positioned as a compelling alternative to the larger, more expensive Ioniq 5. The reviewer highlights its competent EV performance, with 201 horsepower and a real-world range easily exceeding its EPA estimate, reaching 255 miles on a 244-mile loop. Key strengths include its agile handling for an EV, a comfortable ride that surpasses some competitors, and a quiet cabin thanks to its skateboard battery design. The reviewer also praises its urban maneuverability and ease of parking. However, drawbacks are noted, such as slower DC fast charging compared to rivals like the Ioniq 5, a lack of a front storage frunk, and the absence of a heat pump in US models, which impacts winter range. The interior, while functional, features a mix of hard plastics, and the infotainment system lacks wireless CarPlay. Despite these compromises, the Kona Electric is deemed an excellent, well-rounded small EV, particularly when considering its price point and potential federal tax credit, outperforming the Chevrolet Bolt and Bolt EUV in many aspects.