New 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric: Longer and Bolder

Growing to 20 centimeters in length and featuring a much more original style, the new Hyundai Kona revises its design for 2023, including an electric version.

Hyundai has significantly changed its style in recent years, with many differences from one model to another. However, there is a sense of harmony across the 2023 Kona, sharing the profile of the Tucson – the family SUV – with subtle hints of the hybrid brother Bayon. It will still be recognizable through its LED light bars at the front and rear, with pixels, a theme seen on the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. The more powerful headlights are positioned lower, on the sides.

Borrowing the platform of the Kia Niro, it also shares its dimensions. The new compact Hyundai extends its length by 15 centimeters (4.35 m), of which 6 are in the wheelbase, and its width grows by 2.5 cm (1.82 m). Interior space will be more generous for occupants, notably with the absence of a central tunnel, while the trunk is expected to be more spacious (currently 332 liters). The dashboard design heavily draws inspiration from the Ioniq, featuring a very straight layout and dual 12.3-inch screens in a continuous display.

460 km of range for the Kona Electric?

Like the Kia Niro, the Hyundai Kona is primarily designed with electric in mind, according to the manufacturer. However, no details are provided about the propulsion system of its compact SUV. It is believed that the Niro’s 150 kW (204 hp) motor will be used, without the more accessible 100 kW (136 hp) version.

The 2023 Kona Electric will also feature a 64 kWh battery, offering approximately 460 kilometers of range (up from 449 today). Once again, there will be no small battery — like the current 39 kWh — that would allow for a lower starting price.

Price: Is the Hyundai Kona Much More Expensive?

Starting today at €36,900 with the 100 kW/39 kWh duo, it will be difficult for the new generation to go below €40,000 (the Niro Electric starts at €44,490). The maximum bonus of €5,000 applies.

This makes it particularly attractive to rivals like the Opel Mokka. With its new motors and batteries (156 hp / 406 km range), the German competitor has a minimum price of €41,150. It’s also worth keeping an eye on the Volvo C40 Recharge (from €44,950) and Volkswagen ID.4 (from €44,000), which feature less range but offer more interior space.

Hyundai will provide more details in the upcoming weeks. The Korean manufacturer will also introduce the hybrid version. The Kona will continue to offer electric, thermal, and hybrid options, but without a plug-in hybrid, unlike the Niro.

Read also: Peugeot e-2008 Electric: info, versions, and prices of the French SUV