Hyundai Australia has made tweaks to the local lineup of the Kona Electric and introduced a new, entry-level model.
Now sitting at the base of the 2022 Kona Electric lineup is the Standard Range. This variant is equipped with a 39.2 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery pack that’s mated to an electric motor pumping out 134 hp (100 kW) and 291 lb-ft (395 Nm) of torque. The SUV has a WLTP-quoted range of 189 miles (305 km) on a single charge.
Local pricing for the Kona Electric Standard Range starts at AU$54,500 (US$39,207) for the Elite trim level and AU$58,000 (US$41,725) for the Highlander.
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Sitting at the top of the range is the familiar Kona Electric Extended Range. It has a considerably bigger 64 kWh battery pack and an electric motor with 201 hp (150 kW). Prices for the Elite trim have been reduced by AU$1,500 (US$1,079) and now start at AU$60,500 (US$43,523) while the flagship Extended Range Highlander is offered from AU$64,000 (US$46,041), a AU$2,000 (US$1,438) reduction from last year’s model.
“The new Kona Electric Standard Range gives customers zero-emissions electric motoring in an attractive, sporty and practical small SUV, and at more accessible price,” Hyundai Australia chief executive Jun Heo said in a statement. “It is Hyundai’s intention to establish leadership for eco cars in Australia. We already have the most diverse range of electrified vehicles including Kona Electric, NEXO our hydrogen-powered SUV and the soon to launch game changing IONIQ 5. Hyundai is leading Australia’s charge towards a greener transport future.”
The Kona Electric Standard Range and Extended Range models share the same key features and the powertrains and prices are the only thing that separate them. As such, Elite models include Hyundai’s SmartSense advanced driver assist system, tire pressure monitoring system, rear-view camera, leather interior, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, 8-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, DAB+ digital radio and a Qi wireless charging pad. Additional features found in the Highlander include LED headlights, Head-Up Display, glass sunroof, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and a heated steering wheel.