Hyundai Kona Electric Premium
LOADED KONA NUDGES THE PRICE LIMIT, AND CLASS BENCHMARKS
LINING UP THIS comparison, we had the mid-spec Kona Extended Range ($58,000) in mind, but only the Premium was available for our dates. The Premium’s biggest problem comes not from this quartet, but the cheaper base Ioniq 5 which is bigger and uses a bespoke EV platform offering faster charging.
Yet the new Kona has a convincing response for (nearly) every question asked. An interior that feels remarkably premium for a small SUV (though there are hard plastics if you go looking) headlined by soothing light leather upholstery and heated/ventilated seats for front occupants.
Technology is sharp with twin 12.3-inch displays and attractive graphics that are distinctly Hyundai. Wireless CarPlay wasn’t enabled in our car but an over-the-air software update promises it shortly. Storage solutions abound, and just like the Renault, there’s the expected wireless charging and myriad USB ports for front and rear passengers, as well as a three-pin power socket.
In the second row, it’s a matter of preference whether the BYD or Kona is best. A fold-down armrest, wide bench, flat floor, and air vents make this a genuine family vehicle. The boot is biggest on test (507 litres) with a twin-height floor and bag hooks. It’s the exclusive carrier of a temporary spare tyre in this company, too.
On the road, the Kona’s well-documented nannying driver-attention and speed-sign monitoring continues to annoy. You can now shortcut to the menu using the configurable star button but it’s still not good enough. That fourstar ANCAP rating needs mentioning, too, though the Kona was knocked down due to driver-assist scores rather than crashworthiness.
Aside from those niggles, the Kona is the star all-rounder here. Even on the Premium’s 19s
(that sap 61km WLTP range compared to the Extended Range’s 17s), it rides well. Cabin noise suppression is right up there with the Renault and there’s minimal audible suspension intrusion.
It feels very familiar behind the wheel, with paddles to adjust regen efficacy from coasting to ‘i-Pedal’ model that can bring the Kona to a full stop. It’s brisk away from the lights without the scrabbliness of the old Kona (thanks to the torque-restricted front motor). Visibility is the best of the lot and Hyundai’s 360-degree camera quality matches the BYD’s.
The Hyundai doesn’t fall over on a testing road either. Its brake feel and steering aren’t as sporty as the Megane’s, but the chassis is still plenty talented and – crucially – safe. The reassuringly weighty tiller adds confidence to proceedings.