TEST DRIVES
2022 Hyundai Kona EV Limited Continues To Be A Showstopper
The Hyundai Kona EV has proven to be one of the best-designed, affordable electric cars available. While it may not grab headlines the way vehicles from Tesla may, it is, in our experience, an excellent car ideally suited to everyday use.
The 2022 Hyundai Kona EV competes directly with the Kia Niro EV and the Chevy Bolt amongst a few other lesser-known competitors. One of the first things that stood out about the 2022 model was the new shape. The redesigned Hyundai Kona EV is sharper and makes enough space for a larger battery, along with numerous additional safety options and improved connectivity compared to the outgoing model.
So, the question is: does the 2022 Hyundai Kona EV do enough to merit an upgrade or maybe ditch your daily gas guzzler for an EV?
Our Take On The Design and Styling
Our first impressions of the 2022 Hyundai Kona EV were positive. The front fascia design is more aerodynamic, with sleeker headlamps and daylight running lights. Both sides have vents, which help channel airflow and give the vehicle a sportier look.
We especially like the new front grille, which gives the vehicle a unique touch and convenient head-in parking. The addition of those faux-aluminum accents helps to add a bit of style to the interior without coming across as gaudy. Also, the matt finish ensures that the interior does not reflect sunlight, potentially blinding drivers during the day.
While the push-button shifter on the center console does take some getting used to, it makes driving a lot more convenient in our experience. Speaking of which, the rear cargo area and the second row is larger compared to the outgoing model, though larger passengers may still feel that the rear is a little tight.
Since we spent most of our time with the Limited trim, we can tell you that the auto-dimming rearview mirror and the HomeLink are handy features. In addition, the Limited is the only trim with heated seats, power driver seat, ventilated leather in the front, LED headlights, with high auto beams, leather-wrapped steering wheel, LED taillights, rain-sensing, rear parking sensors, and a power tilt or slide sunroom. Finally, the digital smartphone key makes entering and locking the vehicle something you’re likely never going to forget.
Additional tech includes a 10.25-inch touch screen with a Free HD radio, cruise control, a rear USB port, Hardon Kardon audio system, and wireless phone charging.
Fun To Drive
The 2022 Kona Electric is zippy and a fun vehicle to drive. The three modes, i.e., comfort, sport, and eco, offer varying degrees of driving pleasure. Our personal favorite is Sport mode, with its noticeably fast acceleration.
Most people will choose to drive in Comfort mode, mainly because it offers better handling, improved battery range, and it feels comfortable.
Final Verdict
In our opinion, the 2022 Kona Electric should be at the top of anyone’s list, especially if they are in the market for an electric SUV. The excellent battery range and innovative tech make it an excellent choice in this price range.
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