2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV

header-image
$37,390 - $45,600
Starting Price 
Nathan Dyer's image
Nathan Dyer 

Senior Editor,

Updated on October 31, 2023

ProsConsWhat's New

Splendid range of 258 miles on a single charge

Squeezed rear seating room

No significant changes when compared to the outgoing 2020 model

A pool of standard tech and safety features

Cabin quality isn't competitive

Crisp handling

Available in only 13 states

Swift acceleration

Specs & Features

$37,390

price

201 hp @ 3600 rpm

horsepower

291 lb.-ft.

torque

1-Speed Direct Drive

transmission

electric FWD 1A

engine

-

basic warranty

Overview

The 2021 Hyundai's Kona Electric raises the bar for compact electric cars with its bold design, stunning powertrain, and cutting-edge features, including a navigation system controlled using an app, heated front seats, and several other features. This battery-powered marvel is loaded with features and available effective technology that are sure to make getting around a breeze.

Buying Advice

Right from its base variant, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a slew of features. Despite this, we recommend the Limited model, as it is generously equipped with additional features like heated seats and a sunroof. There is no loss of performance or range since all Kona Electrics share the same battery pack.

Comparative Analysis against Competition

Born from Hyundai's innovative spirit of ‘New Thinking, New Possibilities’, the Kona Electric is an ultra-stylish five-door compact SUV that's designed to break down the old distinctions between cars and electric vehicles. With a segment-leading electric range, a competitive price, an appealing interior, and a generous list of standard features, the Kona Electric makes a solid stance in the Crossover EV segment, battling against the likes of Tesla Model 3, Kia Niro EV, and Chevrolet Bolt EV.

Features
8.0/10

The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is available in three well-appointed trim levels; SEL, Limited and Ultimate. All of these variants feature a 64-kWh battery pack to light up a 150-kW Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor. On the convenience front, all the variants come equipped with a pool of standard features like Automatic Climate Control, Proximity keyless entry with push-button start, Leather-wrapped steering wheel, Heated front bucket seats, 60/40-split-folding rear seats, LED Headlights, and 17-inch wheels. 

On the connectivity and infotainment front, it comes with a 7-inch touch screen, a Six-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility to name a few. The Ultimate trim is decked out of all with additional features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, heated steering wheel, 8-speaker infinity stereo, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and head-up display. While the standard safety features like Automatic emergency braking, Blind-spot monitor, Lane-keeping Assist, and Rear cross-traffic alert were offered across all the trim levels.

Trims

SEL

Limited

Ultimate

MSRP (Manual)

$37,390

$41,800

$45,400

Key Features

Proximity keyless entry with push-button start

Adds all the features of SEL trim

It adds/upgrades features of Limited trim 

 

Automatic climate control

LED Headlights

10.25-inch touchscreen

 

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Sunroof

Navigation system

 

Heated front bucket seats

Wireless charging pad

8-Speaker infinity stereo

 

60/40-split-folding rear seats

Auto-dimming rearview mirror

Heated steering wheel

 

7-inch touch screen

8-way Power-adjustable driver’s seat

Ventilated front seats

 

Six-speaker audio system

Automatic high-beam headlights

Head-up display

 

17-inch wheels

Leather upholstery

Rain-sensing windshield wipers

 

LED DRLs

   
 

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

   
 

Tire Pressure Monitoring system

   
 

Blind-Spot Collision warning

   

Which trim should you buy? 

Right from its base variant, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a slew of features. Despite this, we recommend the Limited model, as it is generously equipped with additional features like heated seats and a sunroof. There is no loss of performance or range since all Kona Electrics share the same battery pack.

Fuel Economy
9.9/10

With 132 miles per gallon in the city and 108 miles per gallon on the highways, the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is rated for 120 MPGe combined.An affordable EV with an EPA rating of 258 miles, Hyundai Kona competes directly against Tesla Model 3 in the affordable EV segment. Also, the fast charge will allow Hyundai's fully depleted batteries to be recharged in less than three hours and by as much as 80% in just 54 minutes. 

Models

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

2021 Tesla Model 3

2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2021 Kia Niro EV

MPGe (City)

132

148

127

123

MPGe (Highway)

108

132

108

102

MPGe (Combined)

120

141

118

112

Range 

258 miles

250 miles

259 miles

239 miles

Compared to the 2021 Chevy Bolt, the Kona is just 1 mile weaker on the range front compared to its rival. It is interesting that although Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona have the same powertrain and battery pack, Hyundai has managed to outperform them. In summary, the 2021 Hyundai Kona electric would have the most range on a single charge and would be the most efficient car in its segment.

Interior
6.0/10

One of the most impressive interior features of the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is its feature-rich interior. For top-tier trims, it is equipped with plush seating and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated leather seats as standard. Bringing back the bolstered seats of last year, these items will be offered again this year. There is an electronic switch that can precisely position the lumbar support, while the sunroof and large windows both contribute to the cabin's airy feel. Additionally, the interior of the house can be had in either black or grey.

Leather wraps the steering wheel in Kona, which boasts audio controls and cruise control integrated into the design. Seating for five people in the new Hyundai Kona is comfortable, and the rear row has decent head and shoulder room. When it comes to trunk capacity, the Kona offers 19.2 cubic feet of room, which is one of the most impressive spaces in the segment. In addition, the cabin contains plenty of cubbies so that passengers can keep their belongings organized. Overall, the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is a good value at this price point with good quality materials, comfortable seats, and good ergonomics.

Models

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

2021 Tesla Model 3

2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2021 Kia Niro EV

Seating Capacity

5

5

5

5

Front (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

38.0/55.5/41.5

40.3/56.3/42.7

39.7/54.6/41.6

40.1/56.0/41.7

Rear (Headroom/Shoulder Room/Leg Room, in inches)

37.7/54.5/33.4

37.7/54.0/35.2

37.9/52.8/36.5

39.1/55.2/37.4

Cargo Volume (cubic feet)

19.2

15

16.9

18.5

With regard to the rear passenger room, the Kia Niro offers a lot, while the Chevy Bolt and the Tesla Model 3 outrank the Kona in this regard. Considering the Niro, most cars do not feel spacious for the back seat passengers, but the Tesla Model 3 somehow manages to offer more comfort overall for the rear passengers. Standard interior features of the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric include:

  • Heated Leather Wrapped Steering wheel
  • Heated Front Seats
  • Cloth upholstery and available leather upholstery
  • Manually adjustable front seats
  • Automatic climate control
  • Push-button start and Proximity keyless entry
  • Rear door alert
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat in SL Plus trim

How intuitive is the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric’s Infotainment System?

The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric features a very user-friendly infotainment system with lots of physical shortcut buttons and knobs. The infotainment system in Kona is loaded with features like android auto, apple car play, and onboard navigation, just to name a few. The 8-inch touchscreen infotainment is standard and can be maxed out to a 10.25-inch touchscreen too. The infotainment system makes use of an Infinity sound system with Clari-Fi music restoration technology, which is capable of restoring sound quality. All the standard Infotainment features are listed below:

  • 7-inch touch screen
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
  • HD Radio
  • Satellite Radio
  • 6-speaker audio system
  • 2 USB ports
  • Available 10.25-inch Touchscreen
  • Available Wireless charging pad
  • Available 8-speaker Infinity stereo sound system
  • Available Navigation System

Exterior
5.0/10

The Hyundai Kona was a revolutionary vehicle when it was first launched. Its exterior design, though true to Hyundai's signature styling, was unlike any other Hyundai on the road. Providing a similar look to the Hyundai Kona, Hyundai went with an electric design that retains the product's unique identity but is reminiscent of its predecessor. However, the upcoming 2022 model will feature a completely revamped exterior.

For the 2021 Hyundai Kona electric, there is no need for a grille since it's an electric car and air must be fed into its intake. As a result, the Kona electric has a different front fascia than the regular Kona. On the sides, it sports new 17-inch alloy wheels and roof rails that make it practical. The front bumper and side windows have some crossover design elements slathered on them. As a whole, the Hyundai Kona EV is a commendable example of a car that differentiates itself well from its gas-powered counterpart.

Models

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

2021 Tesla Model 3

2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

2021 Kia Niro EV

Curb Weight (lbs)

3,770 lbs

3,554 lbs

3,563 lbs

3,687 lbs

Length (inches)

164.6

184.8

164.0

171.5

Width (inches)

70.9

72.8

69.5

71.1

Height (inches)

61.2

56.8

62.8

60.8

Ground Clearance (inches)

6.2

5.5

5.5

6.3

Wheelbase (inches)

102.4

113.2

102.4

106.3

With its body dimensions smaller than that of its rivals, the Hyundai Kona will be able to squeeze through traffic-clogged cities with the greatest ease and high maneuverability.Since the Niro is the largest car in the comparison, it can be considered the most practical crossover we have here. In comparison, the Tesla Model 3 had the longest wheelbase, which translated into an even more spacious cabin inside. Some standout exterior features of the Hyundai Kona Electric include:

  • LED Headlights with DRLs
  • Rain-sensing windshield wipers
  • Fog Lights
  • 17-inch wheels
  • Rear Privacy Glass
  • Auto High Beam Assist
  • Heated Mirrors

Safety
9.0/10

The Hyundai Kona hasn’t been tested by the testing agencies yet. However, Hyundai's reputation as a safe brand has been well entrenched in the market for quite some time. As with the 2021 Kona Electric, the 2021 Kona Electric promises exceptional performance and safety for its occupants. It comes equipped with an extensive list of active and passive safety features that set it apart from its competitors. Consequently, Hyundai's Kona Electric has been designed to be the perfect daily driver. Standard and available safety features include:

  • Lane keep assist
  • Forward collision warning
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Driver attention monitor
  • Rearview camera
  • ABS with ESC
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring system
  • Traction control with brake assist
  • Available Stop-and-go Adaptive cruise control
  • Available Pedestrian detection
  • Available Head-up display
  • Available Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Available Rear parking sensors

Competition
9.0/10

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric vs 2021 Tesla Model 3

Compared to the Hyundai Kona Electric, the 2021 Tesla Model 3 offers more performance and has a more striking design. As a bonus, the interior looks more futuristic, and the infotainment system, too, is quite impressive. In terms of range, cargo capacity, and interior room, the Hyundai Kona for 2021 is the clear winner. As with the Model 3, the Kona Electric comes with many features and driver-assistance technologies that were optional in the Model 3.

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric vs 2021 Chevrolet Bolt EV

With more than 250 miles of range on a single charge, the Bolt EV is a competing alternative to the Hyundai Kona. In other words, the Bolt EV has more power than the Kona but is smaller inside. Chevrolet Bolt EV is a good option for a family with a limited budget who needs a daily usable EV.

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric vs 2021 Kia Niro EV

Underneath, the Kia and Hyundai share the same underpinnings and the majority of the construction. Both have the same performance, interior space, and range. If you have to choose between them, it comes down to personal preference and better deals on either car. There is no doubt that Kona and Kia are obvious rivals. Both vehicles come with an impressive range, although the Kona Electric has an edge with a whopping 258 miles of range.

Final Verdict

This 2021 Kia Niro EV offers a high degree of standard features and a very long driving range, making it an excellent pick for the segment. Furthermore, no concessions have been made when it comes to aesthetics and ergonomics. The Hyundai Kona Electric seems like an excellent choice for buyers of mid-size SUVs, especially in light of all the benefits of a greener tomorrow.

Trims

    SEL
    $37,390 onwards
    • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
    • Automatic emergency braking
    • Heated Front Seats
    • Keyless entry
    • Leather-Wrapped steering wheel
    • Led daytime running lights
    Limited
    $42,000 onwards
    • Battery heater
    • Leather seating surfaces
    • Led headlights
    • Power-Adjustable driver's seat
    • Sunroof
    • Wireless charging pad
    Ultimate
    $45,600 onwards
    • Adaptive cruise control
    • Heated steering wheel
    • Pedestrian detection
    • Rear parking sensors
    • Upgraded Infinity sound system
    • Ventilated front seats

Compare to similar cars

Price

$37,390- $45,600

Engine

electric

Rating

7.79

Horsepower

201 hp @ 3600 rpm

Torque

291 lb.-ft.

Capacity

5

Read Review

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's 0-60

    Car Name
    0-60 MPH
    Source
    6.8 sec

    2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's MPG

      Car Name
      MPG City
      MPG Highway
      MPG Combined
      Source
      132 mpg108 mpg120 mpg

      2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's dimensions

        Car Name
        Length
        Width
        Height
        Ground Clearance
        Wheelbase
        SourceCompare
        164.6 in.70.9 in.61.2 in.6.2 in.102.4 in.

        2021 Kia Niro EV Electric

        Ranked #1

        172.2 in.71.1 in.61.4 in.6.1 in.106.3 in.

        2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's trunk space

          Car Name
          Trunk Capacity
          Passenger Volume
          Max Trunk Volume
          Source
          19.2 cu.ft.92.4 cu.ft.45.8 cu.ft.

          2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's cargo space

            Car Name
            Cargo Volume
            Cargo Volume w/ Seat Area
            Max Cargo Volume
            Source
            45.8 cu.ft.19.2 cu.ft.45.8 cu.ft.

            2021 Hyundai Kona Electric SUV vs competitor's towing capacity

              Car Name
              Payload Capacity
              Weight
              Source
              1047 lbs.3715 lbs.

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