2025 Hyundai Kona Electric Expert Review: Drive, Performance & Specs Tested

The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric is hitting the scene at just the right time for folks looking for affordable electric vehicles. With the Chevrolet Bolt taking a break and the Nissan Leaf about to say goodbye, the Kona Electric steps in as a solid choice for anyone wanting to stay under that $45,000 mark. This new version builds on what the last one offered, but hey, it also tackles some of the improvements that people have been asking for.

The competitive landscape for affordable EVs has thinned considerably, giving the Kona Electric a unique opportunity to capture budget-conscious buyers seeking a practical electric SUV. While Tesla maintains its presence in the market with the Model Y, its pricing typically starts where the Kona Electric tops out. Other competitors like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Chevrolet Equinox EV operate in slightly higher price brackets, making the Kona Electric’s value proposition particularly appealing.

For the 2025 model year, there are some exciting updates, especially with the new sporty N Line trim. This trim kind of fills the gap between the well-equipped SEL and the fancy Limited trims, offering some unique style and premium features but without that hefty price tag of the Limited. Plus, all trims now come with vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability—pretty neat, right? It shows that Hyundai is really focused on giving people practical features even if they’re not spending a ton.

In today’s market, where a new car is averaging over $48,000, the Kona Electric kicks off at just $34,270. That’s a solid deal, especially when you think about all the features you’re getting and Hyundai’s well-known warranty. It might not have that super high-tech 800V architecture that you see in some of the luxury EVs, but its down-to-earth approach to electrification makes it an attractive pick for everyday buyers.

The 2025 Kona Electric comes with two different powertrain options, each designed to meet various needs and budgets. So, if you’re looking for something that fits your urban lifestyle without breaking the bank, the base SE trim might be just what you need. It has a 48.6 kWh battery and a less powerful electric motor that cranks out 133 horsepower. That’s decent for city driving.

If you want a bit more oomph, you can check out the SEL, N Line, and Limited trims. These models come with a larger 64.8 kWh battery and a beefier electric motor that delivers 201 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque. This upgrade amps up the Kona Electric’s performance, but keep in mind that it still leans more towards efficiency than pure speed.

When you hit the road, the direct-drive transmission sends power smoothly to the front wheels. Unlike some electric vehicles that are all about that wild acceleration, the Kona Electric offers a more steady and predictable power delivery. The 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds with the stronger motor is, let’s say, good enough for everyday situations, even if it’s a bit slower than the last generation.

In real-world conditions, the Kona Electric shows off some nice flexibility. It responds quickly from 30-50 mph in just 2.6 seconds and can zip from 50-70 mph in 3.7 seconds. That’s handy for merging onto highways or making quick passes. The top speed is capped at 109 mph, but honestly, how many people are gonna push it to the max?

You also get a few different drive modes like Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow. Each mode tweaks the power delivery to match whatever driving conditions you’re in. Sport mode does make the throttle response sharper, but it’s not a night-and-day difference compared to some rivals.

When it comes to charging, it might not be the absolute best in its class, but it’s practical enough for most folks. The onboard charger is rated at 10.8 kW for AC charging, and if you need a quick boost, the DC fast charging can take the battery from 10% to 80% in about 43 minutes at a peak rate of 100 kW. Sure, it doesn’t quite match the 800V systems you’ll find in pricier EVs, but hey, it gets the job done for those occasional road trips.

The front brakes? They’ve got ventilated discs that are 12 inches across. And the back? Solid discs measuring 11.8 inches. This setup gives the car, which weighs about 3,865 pounds, plenty of stopping power.

When we put the Kona Electric through performance tests, it showed it can stop from 70 mph in 179 feet. Sure, that’s not the best in its class, but it’s still decent for a car like this. You’ll find the brake pedal feels natural and smooth, which is great because sometimes those regenerative brakes can feel a bit off or jerky.

A nice feature of the Kona Electric is its adjustable regenerative braking system. It’s got the paddle shifters right behind the steering wheel. So, as a driver, you can pick from different levels of regenerative braking force – from Level 0, where you get minimal regeneration, all the way to Level 4, which is like full-on one-pedal driving.

Speaking of which, when you crank it up to the highest level, you’ve got the i-Pedal system. This lets you drive with just one pedal, which is super handy in the city where you’re constantly speeding up and slowing down. The way it responds is predictable and easy to handle, so even if you’re new to electric cars, you’ll get the hang of it quickly.

And hey, when you really need to hit the brakes hard, shifting from regenerative to friction braking is seamless. You’ll notice that the pedal feel stays consistent throughout, which is a big plus. This smooth integration between the two systems boosts your confidence and control, especially in those emergency moments.

The 2025 Kona Electric has a smart suspension system that strikes a nice balance between comfort and handling. With its front strut and rear multilink design, it’s a step up for cars in its price bracket, handling different road conditions quite well.

When it comes to how the suspension is tuned, it clearly prioritizes comfort over a sporty feel. And you know what? That fits perfectly with what this car is meant for. Body movements are kept in check during everyday driving, but yeah, if you push it into sharp turns, you’ll notice a bit of body roll—nothing too surprising there. It does a good job of keeping passengers shielded from bumps in the road, without feeling too disconnected or like you’re floating.

During performance tests, the Kona Electric hit 0.83 g of lateral acceleration on the skidpad. While that’s not going to compete with sports cars, it’s more than enough for everyday driving and any quick maneuvers you might need to make.

As for the electric power steering, it’s got a good weight and offers decent feedback for this type of car. Sure, it’s not super chatty like you might find in a sports car, but it gives you precise control and feels stable when you’re cruising on the highway. The steering ratio is just right, making it easy to navigate tight parking spots and also handle highway driving.

Thanks to the underfloor battery, the vehicle has a lower center of gravity, which helps with stability. This setup keeps body roll to a minimum and gives a nice planted feeling when cornering. But, since the suspension is more about comfort, don’t expect this car to inspire aggressive driving.

When it comes to city driving, this car shines—its turning radius is great for parking in tight spots. The steering feels light and easy when you’re moving slowly, which makes parking a breeze. Then, as you pick up speed, it firms up nicely, giving you that extra stability you want on the highway. So, yeah, it’s pretty versatile for urban maneuverability!

The 2025 Kona Electric is rolling out with these Kumho Solus TA51 Premium All Season tires, sized at 215/60R-17 96H M+S, on most of its trims. These tires hit that sweet spot when it comes to efficiency, comfort, and handling various weather conditions. Now, if you check out the N Line trim, you’ll notice it sports larger 19-inch wheels, which, yeah, does affect the range a bit when you compare it to other trims that come with a bigger battery pack.

The standard 17-inch wheel and tire setup? That’s pretty much perfect for getting the most out of your range and comfort. The taller sidewall on these tires is great at soaking up those pesky road bumps, which means a much smoother ride overall. And let’s not forget, the all-season compound gives you a solid grip in different weather, but if you’re in a place with heavy winter conditions, you might want to think about getting some dedicated winter tires.

Hyundai seems to be all about efficiency with this tire selection, and the low rolling resistance helps stretch that range. But hey, even with that focus on efficiency, these tires still manage to provide a decent grip—just take a look at the 0.83g skidpad performance and the 179-foot stopping distance from 70 mph.

Now, jumping back to the N Line with those 19-inch wheels—yeah, it’s a trade-off. You get a sleeker look and a bit better handling, but you’re sacrificing some efficiency and comfort in the process. This swap leads to about a 31-mile drop in range, going from 261 miles down to 230 miles with that larger battery pack.

Across all trims, you get tire pressure monitoring as standard. This is a neat feature that helps keep things efficient and safe. The system will give you clear alerts through the digital instrument cluster if the tire pressure dips below what’s recommended.

Road noise—it’s well controlled, especially with those standard 17-inch tires. The sound insulation in the cabin does a fantastic job of managing any tire roar, which adds to the overall refined feel of the vehicle.

The 2025 Kona Electric interior has stepped up from the last version. It’s got this fresh, modern vibe that’s hard to miss, right? The cabin layout is designed with a horizontal flow, and that floating center console? It opens up the front area, making it feel spacious and airy.

Now, if you take a look at the dashboard, you’ll find two side-by-side 12.3-inch displays. They give off this sleek digital cockpit look. The left one? That’s your instrument cluster. And the right? Well, it takes care of all your infotainment needs. It all looks super modern, and guess what? Visibility and usability are top-notch, which is always a plus.

Material quality varies by trim level, with the base SE featuring more basic materials but maintaining a good fit and finish. The SEL trim adds several upgrades, including LED overhead lighting for the dome and map lights, addressing a criticism of the previous model year. The N Line introduces sportier elements with black faux leather seats featuring distinctive red accents and premium door panels.

The Limited trim elevates the interior ambiance with additional premium touches and ambient lighting that adds personality to the cabin, especially during night driving. While some hard plastics remain present, particularly in lower cabin areas, they’re well-textured and appropriately placed.

When it comes to utility, the center console has got it covered. It’s designed smartly with handy storage options, like adjustable cupholders and a roomy space beneath that floating console. Plus, the wireless charging pad is in a great spot, so you can easily access it, keeping your devices safe while you’re on the road.

The steering wheel design varies by trim, with all models featuring a leather-wrapped wheel with heating functionality on higher trims. The N Line and Limited trims receive unique styling touches that enhance the premium feel.

The 2025 Kona Electric nails that mix of fresh EV looks and classic crossover vibes. If you take a peek at the front, there’s this cool LED light bar that stretches all the way across. It gives the car a futuristic edge, but not in a way that’s too over-the-top, you know?

The charging port is cleverly placed up front, which is super handy. No more awkwardly trying to park just right at those charging stations. Plus, it’s got heating elements to keep ice from building up when it’s cold out. That’s some smart design thinking for real-world use.

Now, with the N Line trim, you get some neat exterior upgrades. We’re talking about redesigned bumpers, eye-catching side skirts, and some slick 19-inch wheels. Oh, and that twin roof spoiler? It gives the car a sporty flair while also keeping an eye on range efficiency—pretty clever, right?

If you’re into color choices, good news! For 2025, they’ve added this striking Ultimate Red Metallic. The N Line trim sticks to a tighter palette, offering just four options: Atlas White, Black, Ecotronic Gray, and of course, Ultimate Red Metallic. It keeps that sporty vibe intact.

From the side, the car shows off clean lines and nice proportions. The 2025 model is definitely more space-efficient than its predecessor, which is a win. And those standard roof rails? They add a bit of practicality without messing up the sleek look.

Looking at the back, you’ll notice it echoes the front design with that full-width LED light bar again. It gives it a nice, modern feel overall. Oh, and the tailgate is designed low to make loading stuff easier while still being aerodynamically friendly.

The 2025 Kona Electric shines when it comes to everyday usability, thanks to its smart comfort and convenience features spread across its different trims. You start with the base SE trim, which lays a solid groundwork, and then as you move up to the higher trims, you find more and more sophisticated amenities that make owning this car even better.

About seating – The front seats are designed for comfort, with good support and positioning. If you opt for the higher trims, you get an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat complete with lumbar support—super handy for all sorts of body shapes and sizes! Plus, in the SEL trim and above, you get heated front seats, and the Limited trim throws in ventilation for the driver’s seat, making it way more comfortable on hot days.

The seats are made from a material called HTex, which is a synthetic leather-like stuff. It’s not just durable; it’s comfy too. Families will appreciate how easy it is to clean, and it still feels fancy. And let’s not forget the N Line trim—it comes with sports seats that have these cool red accents, which are visually striking but still comfy enough for longer drives.

When it comes to climate control, the Kona Electric is all about efficiency. Higher trims have a dual-zone automatic climate control system, letting the driver and passenger set their own temperatures—pretty neat, right? There’s also a driver-only mode that helps extend your range when you’re driving solo by keeping the climate control focused just on the driver.

Here’s a nice touch: the heated steering wheel is standard on the higher trims, which is fantastic for those chilly mornings. It lets you keep the cabin comfortable without cranking up the heat too much, which could eat into your range. Plus, with remote start, you can pre-condition the cabin while it’s still plugged in, so you don’t drain the battery before you even hit the road.

One of the most significant convenience upgrades for 2025 is the standardization of vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability across all trims. This feature allows the Kona Electric to power external devices up to 1,600 watts, proving useful during power outages, camping trips, or tailgating events.

The 2025 Kona Electric shows off Hyundai’s focus on tech integration. It’s packed with a bunch of advanced features that make things easier and more functional for drivers. At the heart of this tech suite is the sleek dual 12.3-inch display setup, which is impressive.

The infotainment system—it’s a standout! It combines wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus it has a built-in navigation system, so you’re covered no matter what. You’ll love how the wireless phone projection works seamlessly; it reconnects every time you hop in. And the interface? Super responsive! No lagging like you might see in some other brands.

If you opt for the higher trims, you get treated to a Bose premium audio system, which is just fantastic! It’s tuned perfectly for the Kona Electric’s quiet cabin, making sure that whether you’re into rock, pop, or classical, the audio experience is really engaging.

Here’s a cool feature—the digital key is available on the N Line and Limited trims. It lets you use your smartphone to access the vehicle and even share it with others. This is handy for families or if you share driving duties with someone else.

The Remote Smart Park system, available on the Limited trim, allows the vehicle to be moved forward or backward from outside the vehicle. This feature proves particularly useful in tight parking situations or when access to the doors might be limited by adjacent vehicles.

Last but not least, Hyundai’s regenerative braking controls deserve a shout-out. With the paddles on the steering wheel, you can easily manage how much regeneration you want—whether you prefer to coast or go for that one-pedal driving. This flexibility lets you tailor the driving experience to what you like and how conditions are out there.

The 2025 Kona Electric stands out with its impressive array of safety features. You’ve got the classic safety elements mixed in with some advanced driver assistance systems. And what’s great is that all the trim levels come with solid standard safety gear, so no matter which version you pick, you’re getting good protection.

When we talk about safety, it all starts with the car’s structure. You’ll find things like multiple airbags, antilock brakes, and electronic stability control as standard features. Sure, we don’t have the specific crash test ratings right now, but if you look at Hyundai’s recent history, they’ve performed really well in safety tests.

One standout feature is the forward collision avoidance system, which includes pedestrian detection. This comes as standard across the lineup. It uses a camera mounted at the front to spot potential hazards ahead. And it doesn’t just warn you with beeps or lights—it can actually brake on its own if needed.

Then there’s the lane-keeping assistance and lane departure warning systems. They’re pretty sophisticated, and people are really liking how naturally the lane-centering tech works. Unlike some other cars that need cruise control to activate this feature, the Kona Electric can handle lane centering all on its own. This means you can feel a bit safer even during your everyday drives.

Blind-spot monitoring is another standard feature, but if you go for the higher trims, you get some extra bells and whistles. For instance, the Limited trim has this nifty blind spot view monitor. It shows a camera feed right in the instrument cluster when you signal to turn, giving you that extra reassurance when changing lanes.

The adaptive cruise control system is designed to work smoothly, keeping a safe distance from the car in front while adjusting to traffic conditions. Plus, it links up with the lane-centering tech to make highway driving a breeze. Just keep in mind, that it still needs you to stay engaged and attentive while you’re behind the wheel.

The 2025 Kona Electric does offer a smooth driving experience, focusing on comfort and ease— but it still knows how to keep things lively when you want it to. You’ll notice some differences in how it drives, especially between the standard and long-range powertrains. Each one has its own perks, which is great depending on how you plan to use it.

Now, if you go for the more powerful 201-horsepower version, which comes as standard on the SEL, N Line, and Limited trims, you’ll feel the confidence in acceleration during your daily drives. Sure, the 0-60 mph time of 7.0 seconds isn’t exactly blowing away the competition, but that instant torque from the electric motor? It really shines in real-life situations, like when you’re trying to merge onto the highway or zoom past someone who’s going a bit slow.

When it comes to noise, the Kona Electric has stepped up its game since the last generation. The cabin is much better at keeping out wind and tire noise, which makes for a much calmer ride. And without that engine noise, you can appreciate how well Hyundai has done with sound insulation.

You’ve got a few drive modes— Eco, Normal, Sport, and Snow— and they really change how the car feels, depending on what you need. Sport mode gives you a snappier throttle response and makes the steering feel a bit heavier, while Eco mode is all about saving energy without feeling like you’re driving a total slug.

One of the most impressive aspects of the driving experience is the highly adjustable regenerative braking system. The paddle shifters behind the steering wheel allow drivers to select from five levels of regenerative braking (0-4), with level 4 enabling true one-pedal driving. This system proves particularly effective in urban environments, where its predictable operation enhances both efficiency and driving enjoyment.

Also, the car’s low center of gravity—thanks to that battery tucked under the floor—helps it handle really well. Yes, comfort is the priority here, but the Kona Electric still holds its own in corners and feels steady during sudden maneuvers. Overall, it’s a nice blend of comfort and control that makes driving it a pleasant experience.

The second-generation Kona Electric steps up its game when it comes to rear seat space, addressing one of the biggest complaints about the earlier model. Now, the back area is designed to comfortably fit adult passengers, boasting much better headroom, legroom, and foot space.

So, let’s say you’ve got a six-foot-tall adult sitting behind a driver of the same height—there’s actually enough knee room and decent foot space under the front seats. Plus, the rear seats come with two recline options, which lets folks find their comfy angle without losing that generous headroom, even when they lean back a bit.

You’ll also find some handy features in the back like USB-C charging ports and bottle holders in the doors. Sure, the base model doesn’t have rear air vents, but the overall cabin size does a good job of keeping rear passengers comfy thanks to the front system.

The rear seats are made with the same durable HTex material as the front ones, making them easy to clean—always a plus. And thanks to the flat floor, which is a nice perk of the EV platform, the middle seat passenger gets more foot space. This makes it easier for three people to sit comfortably across the back when needed.

When it comes to kids, they’ve thought of that too! The ISOFIX anchor points are easy to reach, and there’s enough room to put in rear-facing car seats without cramping the front seat too much. Oh, and those rear doors? They open wide, making it a breeze for passengers and car seats to get in and out.

The 2025 Kona Electric knows how to make the most of its compact size, giving urban and suburban folks the practical cargo space they need. So, the rear cargo area? It’s got about 25.5 cubic feet behind the back seats, and if you fold those seats down, you’re looking at a whopping 64 cubic feet.

Now, loading heavy stuff is a breeze thanks to a low load height. And if you go for the higher trim levels, you get this awesome power liftgate — super helpful when your hands are full! Plus, there’s a standard cargo cover that keeps your stuff secure and out of the sun.

Particularly noteworthy is the well-designed underfloor storage area, which provides a deep compartment perfect for storing charging cables and other items that need to be kept secure and out of sight. This space proves especially valuable given that the front trunk, while present, offers minimal storage capacity suitable mainly for small items like charging adapters.

The rear seats fold in a 60/40 split, and they lay almost flat, which is great for longer items. Sure, there’s a tiny step up from the cargo floor to the seat backs, but honestly, it doesn’t really get in the way of using the space effectively.

Those standard roof rails! They add some versatility, letting you use different rack systems for extra cargo. This is a game-changer for outdoor lovers who want to haul around bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes without crowding the inside.

Inside the cabin, the storage solutions are clever. You’ve got adjustable cupholders, a roomy center console, and a variety of smaller spots for your personal items. Plus, the floating center console design opens up more storage space under the main control panel. Overall, it’s just a smart and practical setup!

When you look at the 2025 Kona Electric, it’s hard not to be impressed. The features packed into this vehicle, along with its practical abilities and pricing, really stand out. The SE trim kicks things off at about $34,270 and goes all the way up to the Limited trim at $42,445. Each version has something unique to offer, catering to different needs and preferences.

The SE trim is pretty basic, but it still gets the job done. With a smaller 48.6 kWh battery and a 133-horsepower motor, it offers a decent 200 miles of range. It’s priced to make owning an electric vehicle more attainable for many folks. But, if you ask most buyers, the SEL trim—starting at $38,270—seems to hit that sweet spot. It boasts a bigger 64.8 kWh battery and a 201-horsepower motor, plus extra comfort features like heated seats and LED lights.

Then there’s the new N Line trim. Priced at $39,670, this one’s for those who want something a bit sportier and more stylish, but don’t want to shell out for the Limited. Sure, it drops the range down to 230 miles (compared to the 261 in the longer-range trims), but if the style is what you’re after, that might be worth it.

As for the Limited trim—well, it’s the top dog at $42,445. It offers a luxury experience with perks like ventilated seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety features. Yes, it’s a hefty investment, but when you stack it up against similar electric vehicles, it holds its ground pretty well.

Now, a little heads up: The Kona Electric misses out on the federal tax credit because it’s made in Korea. But Hyundai often rolls out their own incentives. If you factor in state incentives too, the price can drop quite a bit, especially on those mid-range trims, possibly getting them under $30,000 in some areas.

Overall, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric is a nice step forward for the model. It tackles previous issues while enhancing what already worked. With more trims available, better interior space, and a solid list of features, it’s definitely a contender in the affordable EV space.

For most folks, we’d say the SEL trim is the way to go. You get a great mix of range, features, and value. But if you want something a bit different, the N Line trim could be a fun option without going all-in on the Limited.

To wrap it up, the Kona Electric offers a smooth driving experience, practical space, and competitive pricing. Sure, it might not have the fastest charging speeds like some pricier EVs, but its well-rounded package, plus Hyundai’s strong warranty, makes it a smart pick for anyone on the hunt for a reliable, budget-friendly electric SUV.