Safety ratings (from Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency)
Economy
Electrical energy consumed from the battery over a given distance.
Economy
{model}
{wh}
kWh/100 km
Economy
{model}
{km}
km/kWh
Energy consumption is displayed on the dashboard and is re-calculated as you drive. It is different to the WLTP-rated consumption (which measures power from the mains).
This number is estimated by comparing the usable battery capacity against the WLTP range.
The maximum speed the EV can charge at home or a public AC charger.
An EV has a built-in charger that converts household AC electricity into DC current that goes into the battery.
This limits the maximum speed you can charge at home - no matter what extra equipment you install. Some public chargers (such as at motor camps and shopping malls) are also AC only.
Fast Charge ⚡
The maximum speed the EV can charge at a DC fast charger.
Speed is limited by the capacity of the charger.
In NZ, fast chargers are typically 25 kW, 50 kW, 100 kW, 175 kW, and 300 kW.
Cold temperatures and the vehicle's charging curve also dictate peak speed (i.e. a warm battery at a lower state-of-charge will charge quicker).
The Hyundai Kona Electric is a subcompact SUV that was launched in 2018. Known for its versatility and excellent efficiency, it has been a popular choice in the NZ EV market, particularly as a company vehicle.
Variants
Hyundai Kona 39 kWh
2018→
The 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.
Price
Price
$69,990
Performance
0-100 km/h
9.7 s
Top Speed
155 km/h
Total Power
100 kW
Drive
Front Wheel Drive
Range & Efficiency
WLTP Consumption measures recharged electric energy from the mains (includes charging losses).
WLTP Range
305 km
Highway Range
233 km
WLTP Consumption
143 Wh/km
Charging Cost
$3.58/100 km
Hyundai Kona 39 kWh: Real Range
Estimate the real world range that may be achieved in local conditions.
Real range
270 km
Consumption
6.9 km / kWh 14.5 kWh / 100 km
Type of driving
All urban
↔
All highway
Outside temperature
14 °C
Battery & Charging
Battery
42 kWh / 39.2 kWh
Chemistry
NMC
V2L
-
AC speed (max)
7.2 kW
DC speed (max)
50 kW
Safety
Based on 2017 ANCAP rating for 17-23 models with dual frontal+side+head airbags
Kona Electric began NZ distribution in July 2018, with two variations – the smaller range (39 kWh) and a longer range (64 kWh).
Kona (2024-)
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.
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 power train (or range).
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) 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 (see the original spec brochure). 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
Review
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Sales Charts and Ranking
All Time
5
Last 12 months
9
The Hyundai Kona is the 5th best selling new fully electric vehicle (of all time) - in New Zealand.
Over the past 12 months, the Hyundai Kona was the 9th best selling new EV.
