A promise made, a promise kept: as announced, I chose my first chronicle of 2024 to complete my test of the Hyundai Kona, this time in its ICE version. More specifically, I was able to test drive the Kona N Line Ultimate, a model inspired by the sporty N line but without sharing its well-known power. Admittedly, this wasn't the first time I'd driven the little SUV, having already taken it for a ride at the AJAC TestFest last October, but this time I was able to enjoy it for much longer. What's more, from the absence of snow over the holidays to the storms of the new year, Montreal offered me a wide variety of weather conditions to really test it out!
If you haven't already done so, I urge you to check out my review of the electric version of the Kona, which I was lucky enough to test drive in Victoria just before Christmas. The reason is simple: the functionalities of both versions are pretty much the same. They feature the same infotainment system and have virtually identical interiors. As a reminder of the N Line, the N Line versions, available only for internal combustion engines, also feature red accents on the interior. The exterior styling, however, is in my opinion a little less interesting on the internal combustion version, which notably lacks the pixel trim that I like so much.
N Line, but not N
Obviously, under the hood, the gasoline version of the Kona differs enormously from its electric cousin, but it doesn't offer a more dynamic driving experience. On the contrary, it only generates 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque, which further reinforces the feeling of a lack of power that can also sometimes be felt on board the Kona EV. Far be it from me to say that the SUV is particularly weak, but you can't help but want a little more performance, which reminds us that this is indeed an N Line and not a true N.
In terms of grip and handling, the two versions offer a fairly similar experience, although Quebec's highways are slightly less steep and twisty than those in British Columbia. Even on ice and snow, the Kona retained its stability, despite the higher center of gravity on the thermal version. Safety and comfort equipment is also more or less the same, and in my opinion remains one of the best in its class.
Which one to buy?
My conclusion is simple: the Kona EV is similar or superior to the N Line version on virtually every level. For a price that's only slightly higher when government incentives are taken into account, the electric model is nicer looking, more efficient and, above all, more economical at the gas station (9.1L/100km combined for the N Line, according to the manufacturer). Since my lifestyle allows me to make do with a range of 420 km, I'd definitely turn to the EV.
