Hyundai has unveiled the second generation of its popular Kona Electric, building on the success of its predecessor. The first-generation Kona Electric stood out as one of the first electric cars offering a range of over 450 kilometers for less than 50,000 euros, and the second iteration promises to elevate the electric driving experience.
Notably, a staggering 88 per cent of the initial Kona fleet customers opted for the all-electric powertrain, solidifying the model’s reputation as a go-to choice in the electric vehicle market. The Kona Electric dominated overall sales, emerging as Hyundai’s best-selling model in Europe, with nearly 60 per cent being purely electric across the continent and an impressive 88 per cent in Germany.
The second generation, launched in early October, maintains the Kona’s efficiency while introducing several upgrades. The top version now boasts a front engine with up to 160 kW of power, a slight increase from the previous 150 kW. The battery sees a minor boost from 64 kWh to 65.4 kWh, contributing to a WLTP range increase from 484 to 514 kilometers. The basic version experiences more substantial improvements, with power increasing from 100 to 115 kW, and the new 48.4 kWh battery providing a WLTP range of 377 kilometers.
Beyond powertrain enhancements, the second-gen Kona Electric exhibits a more significant transformation in its exterior design. The futuristic look, featuring a continuous LED light strip and a pixelated aesthetic reminiscent of the Ioniq 5, introduces a polarizing element compared to its predecessor’s more understated design.
In terms of dimensions, the second Kona Electric is notably larger, with a 2.5-centimeter increase in width, a six-centimeter longer wheelbase, and an overall length extended by a substantial 15 centimeters. This size adjustment translates to increased interior space, a response to customer demands for enhanced rear legroom and a more accommodating boot.
For those concerned about the expanded size, prospective buyers are encouraged to evaluate whether the larger model aligns with their preferences before making the switch. However, for those previously critical of the boot size, the model change brings good news, as the standard configuration now offers 466 liters of space, expanding to 1,300 liters with the rear seats folded – a 40 per cent increase. Additionally, a 27-liter frunk under the front bonnet provides convenient storage for the charging cable.
With these improvements, Hyundai aims to continue its success in the electric vehicle market and surpass the sales figures of the first generation Kona Electric. Jürgen Keller, Managing Director for Hyundai Germany, expresses confidence in the new model’s potential, setting the stage for a competitive presence in the growing electric car landscape. Read Similar Story
