Introduction
The Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Kona have been two of the most popular choices for those looking to transition to electric SUVs. Launched in 2018, both models offer practical features and impressive range. This guide compares these two popular models across key metrics to help you determine which is the better option for your needs.
Size and Styling
Exterior Differences
Though both cars share many components, including their battery packs and electric motors, they differ significantly in appearance. The Kia e-Niro sports a softer, rounder design with larger headlights, while the Hyundai Kona Electric features a more angular and sporty look with smaller, pointier headlights.
Dimensions
The Kia e-Niro is 150mm longer than the Hyundai Kona Electric, making it a mid-size SUV compared to the Kona’s classification as a compact SUV. This size difference can be crucial when considering interior space and overall practicality.
Which has the better interior and tech?
Both cars offer well-designed interiors, but they differ in layout and material quality. The Kia e-Niro has a more premium feel with soft-touch plastics and an integrated touchscreen infotainment system. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Kona Electric features a protruding touchscreen from the top of the dashboard, providing easier access while driving.
What features and trim levels do they have?
Standard and Optional Features
Both models come with a wide range of trims, offering features like heated leather seats, sunroof, sat nav, climate control, cruise control, and parking sensors on higher specifications. Lower-spec models still include essentials like air conditioning and cruise control.
Infotainment Systems
Both vehicles support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration. The Kia e-Niro edges out slightly with a more user-friendly interface and better material quality.
Which has the bigger boot?
Storage
The Kia e-Niro offers a larger boot with a capacity of 450 litres, easily accommodating bulky items like pushchairs or camping gear. In contrast, the Hyundai Kona Electric has a smaller 332-litre boot, making it less ideal for larger families or those needing extra storage space.
Passenger Comfort
The Kia e-Niro also excels in passenger space, comfortably seating four tall adults. The Hyundai Kona Electric is more cramped in the rear seats, making it less suitable for taller passengers or families with growing children.
Which is the better drive?
Performance
Both models offer two power options—201bhp and 134bhp. The more powerful motors provide rapid acceleration, particularly useful for city driving. While both cars handle well, the Hyundai Kona Electric feels nimbler due to its smaller size.
Comfort
The Kia e-Niro provides a smoother and more stable ride, particularly over rough roads. The Hyundai Kona Electric, although agile, feels less stable over bumps and holes.
Which has the better range and shorter charging time?
Battery Options
Both cars offer two battery options—39kWh and 64kWh. The 64kWh battery provides an impressive range of 282 miles for the Kia e-Niro and 279 miles for the Hyundai Kona Electric. The smaller 39kWh battery offers around 180 miles of range.
Charging Times
Charging times are similar for both models. A full charge at home with a 7kW wallbox takes around six hours for the 39kWh battery and ten hours for the 64kWh battery. Public charging from 10% to 80% takes about an hour with a 50kW rapid charger.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
Both models come loaded with safety features. The Kia e-Niro includes automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. The Hyundai Kona Electric offers similar features, though lower-spec models might lack some advanced options.
Reliability
Both cars score high in reliability, backed by excellent warranties and robust build quality. Regular maintenance can ensure these models serve you well for years to come.
Dimensions
Kia e-Niro
Length: 4355mm
Width: 1805mm
Height: 1545mm
Boot space: 451 litres
Hyundai Kona Electric
Length: 4205mm
Width: 1800mm (including door mirrors)
Height: 1565mm
Boot space: 332 litres
Verdict
The Kia e-Niro and Hyundai Kona Electric are both excellent choices in the compact electric SUV category. They share many components, including batteries, electric motors, and technology, making them similar in many respects. However, the Kia e-Niro edges out the Kona Electric with its larger size, more comfortable ride, and greater practicality.
For more insights into electric vehicles and the best deals, visit our electric car buyers guide.
For families or those who need a bit more space, the Kia e-Niro is the better choice. If you prefer a sportier look and don’t need as much cargo space, the Hyundai Kona Electric is an excellent option. Explore our range of used Kia and used Hyundai vehicles to find the perfect match for your needs at MOTORS.
