2021 Hyundai Kona Electric

From low-cost sedans to three-row EV SUVs, Hyundai has a model for almost every kind of customer. Most new Hyundai vehicles are stylish, functional, and competitively priced, but the brand overall ranks around the middle in Consumer Reports’ Reliability and Owner Satisfaction ratings. Individual models and years vary widely, with some standouts and a few laggards. The core Hyundai lineup includes low-cost subcompacts like the Elantra, and midsized sedans like the Sonata. SUVs include the subcompact Kona and compact Tucson, plus the midsize Santa Fe and larger Palisade, both of which offer three-row seating. Many models are available as hybrids or plug-in hybrids. In our testing, most Hyundai models benefit from a hybrid drivetrain, which adds power and smoothness in addition to improving fuel economy. Hyundai’s EVs are some of the best values among electric cars. The Ioniq models are high-tech, well designed, and can charge quite rapidly at public DC fast charging stations.

The Kona electric is as good as the conventional version. Its 201-hp electric motor makes the car quick, with smooth and quiet acceleration. Its range is a robust 258 miles. It takes 9 hours to charge the 64-kilowatt-hour battery from empty on a 240-volt connector. Unlike the regular Kona, the electric version is front-wheel-drive only. It has nimble handling, which makes the Kona responsive when going through corners. The ride, however, is stiff. The controls are very straightforward, though the EV has an odd gear selector that is challenging to use at a glance. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind spot warning, and rear cross traffic warning. The Kona Electric is available in limited states. For 2022 the exterior styling was updated and pedestrian detection was added to the standard FCW and AEB system.