I'd like to take the opportunity provided by this final review of 2023 to tell you about a recent adventure that took me all the way to Victoria, British Columbia, to test drive the all-new Hyundai Kona EV. As a personal fan of Hyundai's electric offering, specifically the Ioniq 5 and 6, you can understand my enthusiasm for this opportunity. Revamped both technically and aesthetically, the little SUV boasts a new platform that offers more space at every level, including an impressive 33% increase in cargo capacity.
Interestingly, the platform was designed primarily to accommodate the needs of the electric version. This includes a flat rear floor and the futuristic exterior design usually associated with EVs. Only the electric version benefits from Pixel trim, which I must admit I particularly like. This year, Hyundai has also added a number of interesting technological enhancements, such as a heated charging port to prevent freezing and a more efficient infotainment system.
From Victoria to Jordan River in a Kona EV 2024
The real test, however, isn't the spec sheet! Rather, it's driving in all kinds of conditions and on all kinds of roads. In this respect, Vancouver Island offered us a variety of environments in which to test the new Kona EV. From the boulevards and highways of Victoria, we soon arrived via fairly forested roads in the villages of Shirley and Jordan River. Even on tight bends and in the rain, the Hyundai SUV held its own, no doubt aided by its Kumho Solus TA51s.
I also particularly appreciated its smooth acceleration. This smoothness is double-edged, however, as we would sometimes have liked a little more performance. However, Korean engineers prioritized efficiency for the 2024 version, which means a little less torque, but a much improved recharge time. In terms of power, the new version remains the same, generating 201 hp, which I believe is sufficient for most uses.
A comfortable and affordable ride
What makes this model interesting for me is not necessarily its performance or utility, but its value for money, which sets it apart from other electric vehicles. It's not the most impressive EV on the market, but it offers surprising comfort and adequate performance at a base price of $51,199 for the Ultimate version. You still have to add the cost of shipping and preparation, and deduct the various provincial and federal rebates, but even so, I think it's a reasonable offer.
Coincidentally, I'm currently testing the combustion version of the Kona 2024. See you next year, then, for my comparison of the twin SUVs.
