Hyundai Kona Electric Variants Compared: 39 kWh vs 64 kWh Long Range

Choosing a Hyundai Kona Electric is a great first step; however, the important decision is next: which battery variant is right for your driving requirements? Choosing between the “regular” 39 kWh version and the 64 kWh Long Range model may seem like a straightforward mileage calculation. Having said that, I have driven a great deal of both, and I can assure you that it is a very personal decision. It goes beyond just the raw numbers on a spec sheet and into the cell of your daily life, determining how this extraordinary electric SUV fits into your life.

Although these two models share a nameplate, the ownership experience is quite different. The 39 kWh model is the consummate urban professional, at once nimble and efficient, in tune with the rhythms of city living. It works well in those places where manoeuvrability and simplicity are necessary. In comparison, the 64 kWh Long Range version makes the Kona Electric your all-purpose, anywhere-you-want-to-go buddy. It’s designed for “those who want to have the ability to travel long distances just in case,” removing range anxiety and expanding the boundaries of your adventures.

This review goes a step further than just numbers and figures, with a comprehensive real-world test conducted on a multitude of trips and in varied situations. We will see how each car copes in urban traffic, on arid country roads and high-speed motorway runs. By helping you understand the actual performance, interior accommodation and day-to-day usability differences between the models, in this article, we will tell you which variant of the Hyundai Kona Electric is the right car for you, rather than the one that’s simply the best car on paper. So, let’s get into the details to determine which of these outstanding EVs is really the best match for your lifestyle.

A Quick Recap: What This Review Covers

• Decide on two very different models to suit your driving needs
• Enjoy nimble city driving with the 39 kWh model
• Take long-distance freedom with the 64 kWh Long Range model
• Get instant torque and surprisingly brisk performance from both models
• Enjoy a quiet, well-mannered and stable experience on the motorway
• Make the most of ‘one-pedal driving’ with the intensity of regenerative braking adjustable for greater efficiency
• Love the clean, modern and intuitive interior that also delivers solid build throughout
• Convenient standard Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™1 keep you connected safely
• Drive with peace of mind with safety features to spare
• Keep more cash in your bank account with zero road tax and lower servicing bills
• Fast charging: 10-80% capacity in about 47 minutes
• Enjoy long-lasting peace of mind with Hyundai’s strong warranty

Mastering UK Roads: The Kona Electric Driving Experience
Climbing into the driver’s seat of the Hyundai Kona Electric, a sense of calm is the first thing you notice. The cabin is a quiet retreat, devoid of the typical rattles and drumming associated with a combustion engine. Both the 39 kWh and the 64 kWh variants deliver this tranquil start of the journey, but the 2 variants separate once you take to the British roads. When you step on the gas pedal, the car immediately starts up with assured, effortless power. It’s a simple car to drive, but one with layers of personality that become apparent in different driving situations, reflecting the extent to which this small SUV is engineered to meet the needs of everyday life.

In the urban environment, the 39 kWh version feels right at home as an urban scout. On a test drive in the traffic-clogged streets of central Manchester, its more agile handling and lighter weight were immediately obvious. It zipped through traffic with delightful verve, instant torque easily rushing through gaps at roundabouts and traffic lights. Parking, which can be a hassle in a bigger vehicle, felt easy because of the small size and lofty driving position with great visibility. The true star of the show in town, however, is the variable regenerative braking. And I occasionally found myself cranking it all the way up for true ‘one-pedal driving’. The predictable, now-enthusiastic slowing of the car as soon as you lift off the accelerator pedal brings a large proportion of traffic energy back to the battery and makes those innumerable stop-starts feel that much less tiring. Although the 64 kWh version is good in the city, you can feel its additional weight making it a tad less agile when negotiating tight urban spaces.

It is on the motorway that the 64 kWh Long Range model really shines and begins to look at home as a long-range machine. The bigger battery isn’t just about the extra distance; it’s about the confidence that comes with it. On a long run up the M6, you could creep along at 70 mph without getting that urge to keep looking at the range indicator. The car remains rock solid and flat at velocity with very little wind and tyre noise filtering through the sound-deadening mats, making it a refined and relaxing place to spend hours on the highway. That reserve of power also means overtaking is decisive and effortless. The 39 kWh version will certainly go on motorway trips, but they feel more like occasional escapades rather than its main function. On colder days, the harsh truth of EV battery performance means that it will be a little more impacted, and that you’ll need to recharge more often on longer trips, turning what should be an easy drive into a bit more of a strategic charging exercise.

• Adjustable Regenerative Braking: Allows for ‘one-pedal driving’ in city traffic, reducing driver fatigue and increasing efficiency by recapturing energy.
• Agile and Responsive Handling: The 39 kWh model provides a nimble and engaging drive, making it effortless to navigate tight urban streets and car parks.
• Superior Motorway Stability: The 64 kWh model’s weight and power provide a planted, confident feel at high speeds, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing long-distance journey.
• Instant Electric Torque: Both models deliver immediate acceleration for quick, decisive manoeuvres in traffic and confident overtakes on faster roads.

Unleashing the Kona Electric’s Surprising Power
It’s tempting to dismiss an all-electric vehicle’s performance numbers, but that would be a big mistake in the case of the Hyundai Kona Electric. The instant torque from its electric motor is exhilarating, and its quickness can sometimes surprise passengers and other motorists who are not expecting it. This instantaneous reaction is true for both the 39 kWh and 64 kWh models; however, how this power is delivered and controlled leads to two unique driving experiences. One is a brisk, lively runner, the other a stronger, more authoritative stride that proves efficiency and driving fun can go hand-in-hand.

The 64 kWh version is by far the best option if you want the fastest performance. It develops 204 PS (which is equivalent to 201 bhp) and does the 0-62 mph sprint in swift 7.9 seconds. “47.7” km/h is respectable for sure, but it really doesn’t convey how much the world feels like’ when you’re racing down the street at that speed. When beginning from rest, the acceleration is surprisingly brisk, making you lean back into your seat. This was especially handy when joining a congested A-road; the Kona Electric confidently accelerated into a break in the stream of traffic. The 136 PS (134 bhp) 39 kWh version is definitely not slow. It does the same dash in a quite capable 9.9 seconds and seems to have more than enough pace for any day-to-day driving requirements. In many ways, its relatively restrained output is perfectly suited to its lighter, nimbler chassis.

And it’s not just straight-line speed – the Kona Electric also has a satisfyingly assured handling experience. The power flows in a smooth, linear wave that’s both predictable and priestly. Sport mode also tightens up the throttle response, making the car even more impatient to get moving. I wound up doing a pair of B-roads in both trims during my test drives, and the steering was direct and sufficiently weighted for precise placement in turns. With the battery under the floor, the car remains pleasingly flat and composed, with minimal body roll. Body roll is kept firmly in check all around courtesy of the low centre of gravity that comes with having the battery under the floor. Although it’s not at all a hot hatch, it deals with the UK’s perpetually uneven and pockmarked roads confidently, and the ride comfortably doesn’t fade in the pursuit of driver engagement.

• 204 PS Electric Motor: The 64 kWh model delivers potent acceleration for swift overtakes and confident merging onto motorways.
• Sport Mode: Sharpens throttle response for a more dynamic and engaging driving experience when desired.
• Low Centre of Gravity: The underfloor battery placement enhances stability and minimises body roll, providing confident handling through corners.
• Direct Steering: Offers precise control and a connected feel, making the car enjoyable to guide on both city streets and country lanes.

Inside the Kona Electric: A Practical and Modern Cabin
Whether big and burly or small and compact, an SUV has to be able to take a beating in daily life. From the morning commute and school run to Sunday shopping, practicality is the essential ingredient. Here’s the good news: the Hyundai Kona Electric is a very practical car, designed around the user. Its cabin is a reflection of·Hyundai’s commitment to a modern and highly user-friendly environment. The build quality feels solid, and the materials used in the cabin are robust enough to make you believe it’s ready to take on whatever you might throw at it.

Inside, you’re met with a clean, well-laid-out and functional cabin. The driver’s seat is comfortable enough and offers sufficient adjustment to fine-tune an optimal driving position for lengthy jaunts. A sharp digital instrument cluster is right beneath you, giving you a quick, clear peek at your speed, range and how much juice you have left. The whole thing is user-friendly with the buttons where you logically expect them and not too far away. The rear seats are all right for children or adults on a brief journey. Nonetheless, taller occupants may feel that the legroom is a touch tight for long-distance travel, which is typical among compact SUVs. There is more than enough space for a small family for a daily routine.

One of the important things to consider for a utilitarian vehicle is storage, and this is where the Kona Electric blinks a little for its electric underpinnings. The batteries are located under the floor, which raises the boot floor slightly when compared with some petrol-powered rivals. This gives you a luggage space of 332 litres. Not class-beating, but still a very useful space that will house a week’s worth of groceries, sports kit or a couple of weekend bags. If you need even more space, you can fold down the rear seats to reveal a much bigger load space, so you’re well equipped for those trips to the store for big items. It’s a nice happy medium without being too small for the typical owner, or too big for most.

332-Litre Boot Capacity: Provides sufficient space for daily errands and weekend trips, with folding rear seats for larger items.
Supportive and Adjustable Seating: The driver’s seat offers excellent comfort, reducing fatigue on longer drives.
Digital Instrument Cluster: Presents vital driving information clearly and concisely, keeping you informed without distraction.
Durable Cabin Materials: The interior is built to withstand the demands of daily use by families and individuals alike.

Seamlessly Connected: The Kona Electric’s Onboard Technology
Hyundai has sent a strong message in not holding back its best technology for just the highest trims. One of the Kona Electric’s biggest strengths is how well equipped even the base model is, making sure every driver has the benefit of a modern, connected and safe experience. These strategies make advanced features more accessible, and the shift toward electric feels more like a smooth transition and less like a trade-off. The interior is designed for an intuitive flow of interaction, allowing the advanced technology to work unobstructed in making the journey easier, safer and more pleasurable, enabling the vehicle to be perceived as an intelligent, forward-looking automobile.

The main centrepiece of the interior is a main touchscreen infotainment system, and it is a joy to use. It’s bright, crisp, and responds promptly to your touch, helping reduce frustration when you’re on the go. Importantly, it comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, which makes it very easy to integrate your smartphone. On my test drive, that meant I was able right away to use familiar navigation apps, listen to podcasts, and take messages with my voice, without hunting for my phone. As a nice touch, Hyundai has kept a row of physical shortcut buttons to the most common functions, such as navigation and media. This practical consideration greatly facilitates and enhances the safety of switching between menus during driving without having to look at the monitor for a long time.

The Kona Electric is also outstanding in the safety department, courtesy of the all-encompassing SmartSense package of driver-assist technologies. Such features as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Lane Keeping Assist work as a constant co-pilot, delivering a vital security layer in unpredictable traffic. On the more expensive models, it’s even more impressive technology. It has to be said that Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go also transformed the experience on that motorway crawl. The system kept pace automatically with the lead vehicle, stopping and starting the Kona without my intervention.

This one feature alone can significantly reduce the stress and fatigue of stop-and-go traffic. Together with Blind-Spot Collision Warning that clearly alerts you when there is a vehicle in your blind spot, these systems form a safety bubble that you can feel confident in every drive.

• Standard Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Allows for safe and seamless integration of your smartphone for navigation, media, and communication.
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go: Reduces driver fatigue by automatically managing speed and braking in heavy traffic, enhancing comfort and safety.
• Physical Shortcut Buttons: Provide quick, tactile access to core infotainment functions, allowing the driver to keep their focus on the road.
• Hyundai SmartSense Safety Suite: Offers a comprehensive set of active safety features that work to prevent accidents and protect occupants.

Charging and Ownership Costs: The Kona Electric Advantage
The switch to an electric car is usually motivated by the prospect of much lower running costs, and the Hyundai Kona Electric is a good example of the financial advantage. Refuelling’s daily chore is supplanted with a process that is simpler, less expensive and more convenient. The 39 kWh and 64 kWh variants are Variable Works are made to fit your lifestyle, no matter if you’re charging the battery overnight at home or on the road for a quick recharge. Knowing your options is important for realising the full value proposition of electric ownership.

For most owners, charging will primarily take place at home via a 7.2 kW dedicated wallbox. That’s the best way to guarantee the car is prepped for daily duty. Charging up the 39 kWh version will take about 6 hours, and the bigger 64 kWh battery will take around 9.5 hours. This daily cycle charging allows you to start the day with a “full tank” and makes use of the cheaper electricity during periods of low demand. Both cars support rapid DC charging, so you can top up your battery while out and about for both cars.

At a 100 kW public charging station, both the 39 kWh and 64 kWh variants can top up their batteries from 10% to 80% in approximately 47 minutes, just enough time to grab a coffee and take a break before hitting the road. Financial benefits aren’t just above what you pay for electricity rather than petrol or diesel. In the UK, pure electric cars such as the Kona Electric are exempt from road tax (Vehicle Excise Duty) and exempt from congestion charges in cities such as London, which can mean sizable annual savings for those with a commute. Hybrid and electric vehicles are less costly to maintain as well since they have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines, no oil changes, spark plugs or exhaust systems to stress about. It’s all supported by Hyundai’s extraordinary warranty, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your investment: 5 years with unlimited miles on the car and 8 years/100,000 miles on the high-voltage battery.

• 100 kW DC Rapid Charging: Allows for a 10-80% battery top-up in approximately 47 minutes, minimising downtime on long journeys.
• Overnight Home Charging: A full charge can be completed in as little as 6 hours with a 7.2 kW wallbox, ensuring the car is always ready for the day ahead.
• Zero Road Tax and Congestion Charge Exemption: Delivers significant annual savings for UK drivers, particularly for those commuting into major cities.
• Comprehensive Hyundai Warranty: The 5-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty and 8-year battery warranty provide exceptional long-term ownership security.

Facing the Competition: How the Kona Electric Compares
The small electric SUV segment is now fiercely competitive, with many great options available for shoppers. The Hyundai Kona Electric isn’t an island, and its success is judged in part on how it fares against major competitors. When making a choice, it has to compare favourably against some pretty stiff competition, including its corporate cousin, the Kia e-Niro, the stylish Peugeot e-2008 and the budget-conscious MG ZS EV. All of these cars have different strengths, yet the Kona Electric manages to hold its own very well. “There are so many sneak peeks and concept vehicles that will be unveiled at EV Day,” an analyst recently posted on Hyundai’s Facebook channel. Regarding the upcoming EV Day, Hyundai offered a teaser of what maybe previously been thought as the future of its electric vehicle, Ioniq 5. Still, the e-Niro is a brawny, competent and capable electric car.

The main benefit of the e-Niro, however, is its greater practicality. It has a more spacious interior, especially for the people sitting in the back, as well as a much larger boot, so it is the best option for people with more space needs. But it is in the driving dynamics and efficiency that the Kona Electric really stands out. And it sometimes feels more nimble and fun to drive, and in everyday driving, it often squeezes a bit more range out of its battery pack, a testament to Hyundai’s skill at powertrain optimisation. The decision between the two is usually a matter of trading space in the e-Niro for the Kona Electric’s livelier driving and greater efficiency.

Against the Peugeot e-2008 and MG ZS EV, Kona Electric offers a contrasting proposition. The bold, futuristic styling of the Peugeot e-2008 is irresistible, and the high-tech interior, with the i-Cockpit design, is unique. Although it has a high-end feel, its actual range can be less certain than that of the Kona Electric’s, especially for the 64 kWh version. The MG ZS EV, meanwhile, is all about value, a generously equipped electric SUV at a very appealing price point. But this value proposition is not as refined and polished as the Hyundais in terms of the quality of materials used inside. The Kona Electric hits the sweet spot, offering a fun drive, a real-world range that has been proven, solid build quality, and a full suite of technology that makes it a more well-rounded and all-encompassing package.

• Exceptional Real-World Efficiency: The powertrain is optimised to deliver a highly predictable and reliable range, giving drivers confidence in the distance-to-empty display.
• Engaging Driving Dynamics: Offers a more agile and responsive handling experience compared to some rivals, making it more enjoyable on a variety of roads.
• Balanced Overall Package: Strikes a compelling balance between performance, practicality, advanced technology, and solid build quality.
• Proven Reliability: Backed by a robust warranty and Hyundai’s strong reputation, it stands as a dependable choice in the EV market.

Your Next Step: Choosing the Perfect Hyundai Kona Electric

Having spent a lot of time behind the wheel of both the 39 kWh and 64 kWh models, there’s no doubt in my mind that the Hyundai Kona Electric is a breathtakingly good EV that manages to get so many things right. It differentiates itself in a competitive segment with an enticing blend of fun-to-drive dynamics, easy-to-grasp technology and real-world measurable efficiency. With the instant torque, it really is a lot of fun to drive, and you also get a practical, reassuring daily driver in the well-packed cabin, and a comprehensive safety package. Along with the considerable savings in running costs and Hyundai’s superb warranty, the Kona Electric makes for a well-rounded and persuasive ownership proposition.

Choosing between the two ultimately involves a business like assessment of your own lifestyle and driving habits. The 39 kWh SX is a superb city and suburban ride.

Reserve us now to set up your test drive. If your driving is mostly city-dwelling daily commutes, school runs and weekend shopping, and you only go on long trips occasionally, this might be the one and only version of car you need. It’s elegantly efficient, agile in traffic, and its modest purchase price and adequate range for daily life make it an exceptionally intelligent and cost-effective pick. It’s the right car for anyone who wants to take a confident first step into electric car ownership without paying for range they don’t need very often.

If, however, your life requires that you be able to go anywhere, or go anywhere far, anytime, the 64kWh Long Range model, hands down, is the one for you. This model allows the Kona Electric to transcend being just a fantastic city car and emerge as an all-around versatile vehicle. It removes range anxiety, allowing cross-country jaunts to be relaxed and enjoyable drives. For anyone who does a lot of travelling for work or needs to visit family on the other side of the country or just wants the peace of mind that comes with having a significant cushion, the premium for the larger battery is well worth it. It taps the full potential of the Kona Electric, making it a car that can actually be your single, go-anywhere vehicle. 

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