Hyundai Kona Electric 2019 pricing and specs confirmed

Hyundai Australia’s emissions-free Kona Electric will sit around $30,000 upstream of its internal-combustion counterparts, kicking off at $59,990 before on-road costs for the Elite grade and $64,490 for the top-tier Highlander.

Hitting showrooms this month, the substantial price increase will net buyers a 64kWh lithium-ion battery and 150kW/395Nm electric motor, which sends drive to the front wheels and can propel the small SUV from zero to 100km/h in 7.6 seconds.

Driving range is also 449 kilometres as tested under the ‘Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP)’, while a 100kW DC fast charger can top up the Kona Electric from zero to 80 per cent capacity in 54 minutes.

When plugged into a standard 7.2kW household plug, 80 per cent juice can be topped up in around nine hours and 35 minutes.

In comparison, the front-drive internal-combustion Elite and Highlander variants are powered by a 110kW/180Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, and retail for $29,500 and $35,500 respectively.

Separating the Kona Electric from its petrol counterparts is a closed front grille, unique rear bumper and bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, occupants are treated to an 8.0-inch media system loaded with a digital radio, satellite navigation, eight-speaker sound system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The 8.0-inch media system controls the digital radio, sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

An advanced array of safety features including forward collision avoidance, active cruise control, driver-attention warning, lane keep assist, bling-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also fitted as standard.

Stepping up to the Highlander grade nets buyers wireless smartphone charging, power-operated front seats with heating and cooling, glass sunroof, and a heated steering wheel, as well as a head-up display, high-beam assist, LED headlights and front park assist.

However, Highlander buyers can substitute the sunroof for a two-tonne colour scheme, while six metallic or mica exterior colours are on offer for an additional $595.

All Kona Electric vehicles come with Hyundai’s five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty with 12 months roadside assist, as well as an eight-year/160,000km cover for the battery. 

Will the Hyundai Kona Electric be a success Down Under? Tell us what you think in the comments below.