South Korean automaker Hyundai announced on Tuesday the pricing and specifications for its 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric, with a $500 and $2,500 price cut for the entry-level and mid-level models, respectively.
Three new Kona Electrics will now be available, starting with an entry-level variant with a 99kW electric motor and standard range 48.6kWh lithium-ion battery.
This 99kW front-wheel-drive Kona Electric will start at $54,000, $500 less than previous years’ models. Boasting an all-electric range of 370 kilometres (WLTP), the 99kW motor will put out 255Nm of torque.
The mid-level Kona Electric will boast a 64.8kWh battery and a 150kW electric motor putting out the same 255Nm of torque but will offer up to 505 kilometres of range.
When compared to previous years, the mid-level is $2,500 cheaper at $58,000.
The top-of-the-line Kona Electric will come in at $4,000 more than previous years’ models, making it more expensive than the Tesla Model Y, making it a difficult sell considering that the Tesla can travel further on a single charge and offers larger cabin space.
Also fitted with the 64.8kWh battery, the Kona Electric Premium will cost $68,000, put out 255Nm of torque from its 150kW electric motor, and travel only 444 kilometres on a single charge.
All three variants will come with battery conditioning; heat pump cabin heating; LED headlights, DRLS, and taillights; dual-zone climate control; and a wireless smartphone charger.
Standard equipment for the lower two variants includes 17-inch allow wheels, dual 12.3-inch screens, keyless entry and start, a six-speaker stereo, cloth seats, and an impressive suite of safety features.
The Premium Kona Electric, however, include 19-inch allow wheels; leather upholstery; powered, heated, and ventilated seating; a heated steering wheel; Head Up Display; and Bose eight-speaker premium audio system.
Remote Smart Parking Assist, a wide glass sunroof, and smart power tailgate also fill out the Premium’s premium features.
Joshua S. Hill is a Melbourne-based journalist who has been writing about climate change, clean technology, and electric vehicles for over 15 years. He has been reporting on electric vehicles and clean technologies for Renew Economy and The Driven since 2012. His preferred mode of transport is his feet.