2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB exterior parked outside of a house

The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

Overview

The 2021 Kona Electric accelerates really well, and the ride feels composed and relaxed. The 2021 Kona Electric is one of the best sub-compact fully electric SUVs in the world.

The 2021 Kona is an exceptional go-green vehicle with immersive driving experience, reliable performance, and an extensive 415 kilometre driving range. Hyundai included styling variations of a distinctive grille and wheels. Even so, the design still looks unique and exciting as the regular type.

The 2021 Kona Electric is one of the most reasonable and affordable subcompact SUVs in the market. This is considering its retail price and warranty plan. The battery charging rate is relatively quicker on a 240-volt outlet.

Vehicle Ranking

The 2021 Kona Electric competes with the Kia Niro EV, Chevrolet Bolt EV, Hyundai Ioniq Electric, and Nissan. It is highly ranked by those that have driven it.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB at charging station at the beach

What’s New for 2021?

The 2021 Kona Electric has a larger infotainment display when compared to its predecessor. Unlike the previous year’s model, the 2021 Kona Electric has a much warmer battery.

Which One to Buy

There are three types of the 2021 Kona Electric, but the mid-range Limited is the most recommendable. It has several appealing features, such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic high-beam headlamps, LED exterior lighting, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a wireless charging pad for smartphones.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB centre console
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB front grille

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Hyundai’s main objective was to produce a vehicle with zero emissions and available to a range of buyers. The 2021 Kona Electric has a fine electric motor that has an impressive 201 horsepower. The power source comes from a 64.0-kWh battery pack with no option of all-wheel drive.

The vehicle takes 6.4 seconds to speed up from zero to 60 mph. This is 0.2 seconds faster than the 2019 version. There may not be a sports version, but it offers a thrilling feel on the road. The highway drive feels smooth with the model’s driving dynamics. The car also feels planted on the road. It’s not too light thanks to the heavy battery that lowers the center of gravity.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB being plugged in and charging
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB charging station

Range, Charging, and Battery Life

Thanks to Hyundai’s accurate one-pedal driving, the driving range extends up to 415 kilometres. The Kona Electric is best charged on a 240-volt station, but a less recommendable option would be a 110-volt one. On a 240-volt station, it takes around 9 and a half hours to fully charge. Ideally, a DC fast-charging station works as the fastest – it takes approximately 63 minutes to fully charge.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The EPA gave the 2021 Kona Electric a combined rating of 120 MPGe. The battery-warming system has been made standard in both the Limited and Ultimate versions. This is to improve efficiency in cold-weather – the system warms the engine as you charge it.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB interior cargo space
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB heated seats

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Like the regular version, the 2021 Kona Electric cabin is made from quality materials. Heated front seats are standard on all 2021 Kona Electric models. You also have the option of upgrading to an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The trunk space is impressive – it can hold five carry-on suitcases, and a maximum of 15 with the rear seats folded.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB radio and wireless charger
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB infotainment screen and connectivity
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB sound system

Infotainment and Connectivity

All models have an infotainment touchscreen system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kona’s Infinity audio system is one of the best in the market. The system includes an external amplifier and music restoration technology for the perfect music immersion experience. Any audio that feels too low or unclear is improved with the restoration technology.

2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB heads up display
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB safety features
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB pedestrian detection

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Kona Electric is yet to be tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Nevertheless, the Hyundai Kona has received remarkable ratings in the past. Below are some of the standard safety features that make this car amazing:

  • Automatic emergency brakes with forward-collision alert
  • Lane-departure alert and lane-keeping assist
  • Adaptive cruise control with pedestrian detection
  • Driver attention monitor

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Hyundai has good warranty plans. There’s a new addition of an appreciative scheduled maintenance plan of up to three years or 36,000 miles. Below are the warranty plans:

  • Limited warranty – Up to 5 years or 100,000 kilometres
  • Powetrain warranty – 5 years or 100,000 kilometres
  • Battery warranty – 8 years or 160,000 kilometres
2020 Kona Electric in Winnipeg, MB parked with couple getting ready to go