Hyundai’s entry-level EV, the subcompact, five-seat Kona Electric crossover, begins its second generation with a second, more economical battery choice. Redesigned for 2024, the Kona also offers new standard features, a roomier rear seat and cargo area, and a fresh, sporty exterior.
The electric Kona, introduced in 2019, while well-received, was always a bit cramped and short on cargo space compared to its rivals. For 2024, though, the Kona has a new platform that's longer and wider, addressing those issues and making it much more competitive.
Its chief drawbacks have been its pricing and the loss of federal tax credit eligibility (except for leased models). Hyundai hasn’t released 2024 pricing yet, but it will offer a lower-cost version equipped with a new, shorter-range battery pack.
In either version, the Kona Electric’s appeal is likely to remain with first-time EV buyers — singles, young couples, and empty nesters looking to break away from standard gas vehicles. Note, though, that in 2023 Hyundai sold the Kona Electric in just 26 states; it still considers much of the middle of the country to be poor EV territory.
The beginner EV competitive set is small but soon will include a hot new entry: Volvo’s stylish EX30. Shoppers might also want to consider the Kona’s corporate cousin, the Kia Niro EV, which was redesigned for 2023, as well as the Nissan Leaf, and base trims of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Tesla Model Y. After a series of price cuts, and with its eligibility for a $7,500 federal tax credit, the Model Y just makes it into the sub-$40,000 category.
The current-generation Chevrolet Bolt EV and Bolt EUV will be discontinued at the end of 2023. Their replacements aren't likely to arrive before 2025, taking them out of competition for 2024.
