Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona was first sold in New Zealand in July 2018 and is no longer sold new. Used examples cover model years 2018 to 2024.
Hyundai NZ chose not to import the MY2024 Kona -- subsequently the vehicle was no longer available new from 2024. However some of the newer shape made it to NZ as used imports from Japan.
Hyundai Kona 64 (2018-2024)
Hyundai Kona 64 · 2018-2024Performance
Range & Efficiency
Battery & Charging
Battery
DC fast charging
AC charging
Dimensions & Weight
Storage & Towing
Hyundai Kona 39 (2018-2024)
Hyundai Kona 39 · 2018-2024The smaller-battery Kona has a lower price point than its 64 kWh sibling but accounts for less than 20% of Kona EV sales. The lower range and lack of power may be the reason. Other SUVs such as the ZS EV and Atto 3 offer a superior range at a 30% cheaper price - we can expect the 39 kWh variant to disappear into obscurity.
Performance
Range & Efficiency
Battery & Charging
Battery
DC fast charging
AC charging
Dimensions & Weight
Storage & Towing
Kona Electric began NZ distribution in July 2018, with two variations -- the smaller range (39 kWh) and a longer range (64 kWh).
Kona (first generation 2018-2020)
Hyundai first claimed a WLTP range of 470 km, but by the time the Kona was released, this was changed to 459 km. Then, in March 2020, Hyundai announced a WLTP range of 484 km.
Either way, Kona owners consistently report excellent range (economic drivers getting as much as 500 km urban driving in summer) from their Kona. There were about 700 first-generation Konas sold in NZ.
The front grille distinguishes the 2018-2020 Kona EV from the later Series II.
The first Kona had two trims: the base and the Elite.
The Elite offers additional extras:
- Heated and ventilated front seats.
- Heated steering wheel.
- Wireless phone charging.
- 8-speaker audio system.
- Larger 10.25" infotainment screen.
- 10-way power adjustable driver's seat, 6-way power adjustable passenger's seat.
- Heads up display system
Kona (series II 2021-2023)
2021 saw the Series II released -- a facelift version providing extra cargo capacity, rear seat legroom, enhanced safety features, and exterior aesthetic, but no changes to the powertrain (or range).
Kona (MY2024-)
Several improvements were made to the 2024 Kona: larger cabin space (and exterior dimensions), V2L capability, change in exterior styling, and battery pre-conditioning. Both variants have slightly larger batteries than previous model years, although the WLTP range barely changed -- up to 490 km (+6 km) for the long-range variant.
NOTE: This version was not made available in New Zealand. However a handful of Japanese used imports exist.
How many Hyundai Kona have been sold in NZ?
There have been 3,109 registered to date (including 17 used imports).
