Let's dive into the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric, a subcompact SUV that's been making waves in the electric vehicle market. If you're curious about its acceleration, features, and overall driving experience, you've come to the right place. We'll explore everything you need to know about this eco-friendly ride, focusing on that all-important 0-60 mph time and what makes it tick.

Performance and Acceleration

When discussing electric vehicles, one of the first things that comes to mind is acceleration. The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric doesn't disappoint, offering a peppy and responsive driving experience. The electric motor delivers instant torque, which translates to quick off-the-line acceleration. So, what's the actual 0-60 mph time? The Kona Electric can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. That's pretty impressive for a subcompact SUV, and it's quicker than many of its gasoline-powered competitors. This brisk acceleration makes the Kona Electric fun to drive around town and provides ample power for merging onto highways.

The Kona Electric's powertrain consists of a single electric motor that produces 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. This power is sent to the front wheels, providing confident acceleration and handling. The electric motor is powered by a 64 kWh battery pack, which offers a respectable range. Drivers will appreciate the smooth and quiet operation of the electric powertrain. Unlike gasoline engines, there are no gears to shift, resulting in seamless acceleration. The Kona Electric also features regenerative braking, which helps to recapture energy and extend the driving range. Overall, the Kona Electric's performance is one of its strongest selling points, providing a blend of efficiency and fun that's hard to beat.

Furthermore, the Kona Electric's acceleration isn't just about the numbers; it's about the feeling behind the wheel. The instant torque delivery means that you get immediate response when you press the accelerator, making it easy to zip around town and navigate traffic. It's also surprisingly capable on the open road, with enough power to confidently overtake other vehicles. The Kona Electric's well-tuned suspension also contributes to its enjoyable driving experience, providing a comfortable ride without sacrificing handling. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip, the Kona Electric offers a compelling combination of performance and practicality.

Range and Charging

Beyond acceleration, another crucial factor for electric vehicles is range. The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric boasts an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles on a full charge. This range is more than sufficient for daily commutes and errands, and it's also suitable for longer trips with some planning. Of course, the actual range can vary depending on driving conditions, such as speed, temperature, and terrain. However, the Kona Electric's range is competitive within its class and provides peace of mind for drivers who are concerned about running out of battery.

When it comes to charging, the Kona Electric offers several options to suit different needs. Using a Level 2 charger (240V), you can fully charge the battery in approximately 9 hours and 15 minutes. This is ideal for overnight charging at home. If you're on the go and need a quick charge, the Kona Electric supports DC fast charging. With a DC fast charger, you can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in about 47 minutes. This makes it convenient to top up the battery during road trips or when you're in a hurry. The Kona Electric also comes with a standard Level 1 charger (120V), which can be used with a regular household outlet. However, Level 1 charging is much slower, taking several days to fully charge the battery.

To optimize your charging experience, it's recommended to install a Level 2 charger at home. This will significantly reduce charging times and allow you to start each day with a full battery. Many utility companies offer incentives and rebates for installing Level 2 chargers, which can help to offset the cost. Additionally, there are numerous public charging stations available, including Level 2 and DC fast chargers. Apps like PlugShare and ChargePoint can help you locate nearby charging stations and plan your routes accordingly. With a little planning, you can easily manage your charging needs and enjoy the benefits of electric vehicle ownership.

Interior and Features

Moving inside, the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric offers a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. The interior design is modern and functional, with user-friendly controls and a straightforward layout. The front seats are supportive and provide ample headroom and legroom. The rear seats are a bit tighter, but they're adequate for shorter trips. The Kona Electric also offers a decent amount of cargo space, with 19.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. This is enough room for groceries, luggage, and other everyday items.

The Kona Electric comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the infotainment system. Higher trims offer a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen display with additional features, such as navigation and a premium audio system. The Kona Electric also includes a suite of advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring. These features help to enhance safety and provide peace of mind while driving. Other notable features include a head-up display, wireless charging pad, and heated front seats.

The interior of the Kona Electric is designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and thoughtful storage solutions. The dashboard is well-organized and easy to navigate, with physical buttons and knobs for frequently used functions. The infotainment system is responsive and intuitive, making it easy to access your favorite apps and features. Overall, the Kona Electric's interior is a pleasant place to spend time, offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and technology.

Trims and Pricing

The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. The SE trim is the base model, but it still comes well-equipped with essential features. The SEL trim adds more comfort and convenience features, such as heated front seats, a sunroof, and blind spot monitoring. The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line model, offering premium features like leather upholstery, a 10.25-inch touchscreen display, and a head-up display.

As for pricing, the Kona Electric starts at around $34,000 for the SE trim. The SEL trim is priced at around $38,000, while the Limited trim costs around $42,000. However, it's important to note that these prices are before any federal, state, or local incentives. The Kona Electric is eligible for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500, which can significantly reduce the overall cost. Additionally, many states offer rebates and other incentives for electric vehicle purchases. These incentives can make the Kona Electric an even more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.

When considering the Kona Electric's price, it's also important to factor in the long-term cost savings of owning an electric vehicle. Electric vehicles typically have lower fuel costs than gasoline cars, as electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline. Additionally, electric vehicles require less maintenance, as they have fewer moving parts and don't need oil changes or spark plug replacements. Over the lifespan of the vehicle, these savings can add up significantly, making the Kona Electric a smart financial choice.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, the 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric delivers a fun and engaging driving experience. The instant torque from the electric motor provides quick acceleration, making it easy to zip around town and merge onto highways. The Kona Electric also handles well, with responsive steering and a well-tuned suspension. The ride is comfortable, even on rough roads, and the cabin is relatively quiet, thanks to the lack of engine noise.

One of the standout features of the Kona Electric is its regenerative braking system. This system allows you to slow down the car by simply lifting your foot off the accelerator. The regenerative braking system captures energy and sends it back to the battery, helping to extend the driving range. You can adjust the level of regenerative braking using the steering wheel-mounted paddles. Some drivers prefer a stronger level of regenerative braking, which allows for one-pedal driving. Others prefer a lighter level, which feels more like driving a traditional gasoline car.

The Kona Electric also offers several driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, and Sport. Eco mode prioritizes energy efficiency, while Comfort mode provides a balanced driving experience. Sport mode enhances performance, providing quicker acceleration and sharper handling. These driving modes allow you to customize the driving experience to suit your preferences and driving conditions. Overall, the Kona Electric is a joy to drive, offering a blend of performance, comfort, and efficiency that's hard to beat.

Conclusion

The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric is a compelling option in the electric vehicle market. With its quick acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds), ample range (258 miles), and well-equipped interior, it offers a lot to like. The Kona Electric is also eligible for federal and state incentives, which can make it an affordable choice. Whether you're looking for a daily commuter or a weekend adventure vehicle, the Kona Electric is worth considering. Its blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality makes it a standout in its class. If you are looking for a fun to drive electric SUV with a reasonable price tag, put the Kona Electric on your short list.