Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV, a car that made a big splash in the electric vehicle market. It's not just another EV; it's a subcompact SUV that brought a lot to the table, and still holds up pretty well today. We'll be looking at everything, from the range and charging to the interior and driving experience. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

The Kona EV's Place in the EV Market

When the Hyundai Kona EV hit the scene in 2019, the EV market was still finding its footing. Tesla was dominant, of course, but there was a real need for affordable, practical EVs that could appeal to a wider audience. The Kona EV aimed to fill that gap. It wasn't trying to be a luxury car, nor was it a stripped-down econobox. Instead, it offered a blend of practicality, style, and impressive range for its price point. It was designed to compete with cars like the Nissan LEAF and the Chevy Bolt, but with a more modern and SUV-like design. The Kona EV quickly gained attention for its compact size, making it perfect for city driving, and its surprisingly long range, which alleviated some of the range anxiety that plagued early EV adopters. It also boasted a decent amount of cargo space and a comfortable interior, which further added to its appeal. In essence, the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV was a trendsetter, proving that an EV could be stylish, practical, and accessible all at once. It proved that electric cars didn’t have to be boring or overly expensive to be a great option for the masses. Its introduction marked a turning point, signaling a shift toward more mainstream acceptance of electric vehicles.

Its arrival signaled a more practical and accessible future for electric vehicles. Prior to the Kona EV, the EV landscape was characterized by either high-end luxury models or budget-focused options that often came with significant compromises in terms of range, performance, or overall features. The Kona EV changed the game by offering a compelling package that balanced affordability with a strong feature set and impressive range capabilities. It wasn't just about the electric powertrain; it was about the entire driving experience. Hyundai recognized that to truly win over consumers, an EV needed to offer a seamless and enjoyable experience. The Kona EV delivered on this front, with its user-friendly infotainment system, comfortable seating, and a host of advanced safety features. It was a well-rounded package that resonated with a broad spectrum of drivers, from urban commuters to those seeking an environmentally friendly alternative for their daily driving needs. Moreover, it was a bold statement that the future of the automotive industry was undeniably electric and that a shift toward sustainable mobility was not only possible but also desirable. This strategic approach positioned the Kona EV as a leader in its segment and helped to propel Hyundai to the forefront of the electric vehicle revolution.

Range and Charging: What to Expect

One of the most crucial aspects of an electric vehicle is its range, and the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV was a standout in this regard. Depending on the trim level, you could choose between two battery pack options. The base model came with a 39.2 kWh battery, offering an estimated range of around 200 kilometers (124 miles). However, the real star of the show was the higher trim, which featured a 64 kWh battery, boosting the range to a very respectable 415 kilometers (258 miles) on a full charge. This was pretty impressive for a subcompact SUV at the time, and it made the Kona EV a viable option for longer trips, not just city driving. The extended range made it a competitor to other EV vehicles. When it came to charging, the Kona EV supported both Level 2 charging and DC fast charging. With a Level 2 charger, you could expect to fully charge the larger battery in about 9.5 hours, making it perfect for overnight charging at home. For those needing a quick top-up, the DC fast charging capability was a game-changer. Using a 100 kW fast charger, the Kona EV could charge from 0% to 80% in about 54 minutes. This was a significant advantage, as it made it easy to add miles on the go, reducing downtime on road trips or during busy schedules. The Kona EV's charging infrastructure was still evolving, but the availability of fast-charging stations was increasing, making the car even more practical for everyday use. Hyundai also included features to help manage the charging process, such as a charging timer and a charge limit setting, allowing you to optimize charging for your needs. The Kona EV was well-equipped to handle various charging situations, making it a flexible and convenient option for EV drivers.

But the Kona EV didn't just excel in range; it also incorporated smart charging features to enhance the overall user experience. The integrated charging timer allowed owners to schedule charging sessions during off-peak hours, thereby reducing electricity costs. In addition, the Kona EV provided real-time data on the charging status, enabling drivers to monitor progress through the vehicle's infotainment system or a dedicated mobile app. This level of connectivity ensured that owners were always informed about their vehicle's charge level, helping to eliminate any unexpected surprises and make the transition to electric driving smoother. The fast-charging capability was also strategically designed to offer convenience on the go. The ability to add significant range in a short amount of time minimized any downtime during long trips or busy commutes. The Kona EV's commitment to providing a practical charging solution made it an attractive choice for both city dwellers and those with longer travel needs. It was clear that Hyundai had taken a holistic approach, considering not just the range but also the ease and convenience of charging when designing the Kona EV. This thoughtful approach made the Kona EV stand out in a competitive EV market, solidifying its appeal to a wide range of consumers.

Interior and Comfort: A Closer Look

Stepping inside the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV, you're greeted with a surprisingly modern and well-designed interior. Despite its compact size, the Kona EV doesn't feel cramped. The cabin is thoughtfully laid out, with a focus on user-friendliness. The materials are good quality for the price point, and the design is clean and contemporary. The infotainment system, with its touchscreen display, is intuitive and easy to use, providing access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on longer drives. The rear seats are adequate for adults, but the Kona EV is best suited for carrying four passengers comfortably. The cargo space is also pretty decent, especially considering the car's size. You get enough room for groceries, luggage, or whatever else you need to haul around. The Kona EV offered a blend of practicality and comfort that made it a great daily driver. Hyundai made sure the driving experience was easy and enjoyable. Visibility is good, and the controls are within easy reach. The car also features plenty of storage compartments for small items, which is always a plus. The design of the cabin ensures that passengers feel both secure and relaxed, making it a great option for daily commuting. Hyundai also included a number of features aimed at enhancing comfort. This includes a climate control system, heated front seats, and available premium options like leather upholstery, providing a touch of luxury. The overall design creates a welcoming environment, making the Kona EV not just a practical choice, but also a pleasant place to spend time. This balance of design and comfort highlights Hyundai's ability to create vehicles that meet the diverse needs of modern drivers. The Kona EV's interior was a key factor in its success, helping it gain a positive reputation in the EV market.

One of the most significant strengths of the Kona EV's interior was the emphasis on creating an environment that seamlessly blends technology and comfort. The placement of the infotainment screen was strategically designed to be easily accessible for the driver, and the integration of smartphone connectivity options, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, made it easy to stay connected on the go. Furthermore, the Kona EV's design incorporates clever space-saving techniques, such as a center console that provides ample storage and a dashboard that doesn't overwhelm the occupants. The materials used throughout the cabin are of a high quality and are soft to the touch. The overall interior design is not just stylish but also practical, ensuring that the driver and passengers feel comfortable and at ease. The climate control system is highly effective, allowing for precise temperature adjustments that provide a sense of luxury. The inclusion of heated front seats adds to the comfort, particularly during colder weather. The thoughtful arrangement of storage spaces, cup holders, and other functional elements demonstrates Hyundai's attention to detail in creating an enjoyable driving experience. From the carefully chosen materials to the intuitive layout, every aspect of the Kona EV's interior was designed to elevate the experience, making it a perfect example of what a modern EV should offer.

Driving Experience: How Does it Perform?

The 2019 Hyundai Kona EV offers a zippy and responsive driving experience. The electric motor delivers instant torque, making acceleration brisk and fun, especially from a standstill. The Kona EV is quick off the line, making it perfect for city driving and merging onto highways. The regenerative braking system allows you to capture energy and put it back into the battery, increasing the car's range. It also provides a unique driving experience where you can essentially drive using only the accelerator pedal. The Kona EV handles well, with a low center of gravity due to the battery pack being located under the floor. This contributes to stable and composed cornering. The steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in tight city streets. The ride quality is comfortable, even over rough roads. The Kona EV is also surprisingly quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. The lack of engine noise further enhances the overall driving experience. The combination of peppy performance, good handling, and a comfortable ride makes the Kona EV a joy to drive. It's an excellent choice for daily commuting and weekend adventures. The Kona EV's performance proved that an EV could be both fun and practical. The car's agility and smooth power delivery made every drive enjoyable, cementing its position as a standout option in its segment. Hyundai made it very fun to drive. The Kona EV was well-regarded for its overall driving dynamics, making it one of the better-driving EVs in its class.

Beyond just its driving dynamics, the Kona EV stood out for its commitment to providing a driving experience that prioritized both performance and efficiency. The regenerative braking system allowed drivers to recover energy during deceleration, increasing the overall range and minimizing energy waste. This system provided a seamless and intuitive driving experience, and the driver could easily adjust the regenerative braking strength using the paddles located behind the steering wheel. The car's low center of gravity, a result of the battery pack placement, enhanced stability and handling, particularly during cornering, making the Kona EV feel well-planted on the road. The electric motor's instant torque delivery gave the Kona EV a lively feel, providing swift acceleration and making it exceptionally fun to drive. The quietness of the electric powertrain added another layer of refinement, minimizing noise pollution and enhancing the overall sense of tranquility. The Kona EV's driving experience wasn't just about getting from point A to point B; it was also about creating an enjoyable and environmentally conscious driving experience. The Kona EV was not only a practical choice but also a pleasure to drive. The focus on providing a balanced combination of performance, efficiency, and comfort helped the Kona EV become a top contender in the electric vehicle market, appealing to both seasoned EV drivers and those who are new to the electric car revolution.

Safety Features: Keeping You Safe

Safety is always a top priority, and the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV was well-equipped in this area. It came standard with a suite of advanced safety features. These included: forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic collision warning. These features help to prevent accidents and keep the driver and passengers safe. The Kona EV also received excellent safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, further reinforcing its commitment to safety. The structural design of the vehicle was also designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Hyundai prioritized safety, which greatly improved the car's overall value. The inclusion of these features shows Hyundai's dedication to providing a secure and reliable driving experience. The advanced safety features are designed to detect potential hazards and assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating a collision. The Kona EV set a high standard for safety in its class. These safety features give drivers peace of mind, knowing that they are protected by advanced technology. The inclusion of these features helps to prevent accidents and protect occupants, making it an excellent choice for drivers concerned about safety.

Hyundai didn't stop at just the standard features; the Kona EV was designed with a proactive approach to safety. The forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection was particularly helpful, as it utilized sensors to identify potential collision threats and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Lane-keeping assist kept the vehicle centered in its lane, reducing the risk of unintentional lane departures. The blind-spot monitoring system alerted drivers to the presence of vehicles in their blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes. Rear cross-traffic collision warning helped to prevent accidents when backing up by detecting and alerting the driver to approaching vehicles. These advanced features exemplify Hyundai's dedication to incorporating cutting-edge technology to protect both the driver and other road users. Furthermore, the Kona EV achieved high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, which are a testament to the vehicle's structural integrity and overall safety performance. Hyundai's proactive stance on safety helped establish the Kona EV as a leader in its segment. The emphasis on safety not only provided peace of mind but also contributed to the Kona EV's overall appeal, especially among families and those looking for a reliable and secure vehicle.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Let's break down the pros and cons of the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV to give you a clear picture:

Pros:

• Impressive range, especially with the 64 kWh battery.
• Quick acceleration and fun driving experience.
• Compact size, perfect for city driving.
• Comfortable and well-designed interior.
• User-friendly infotainment system.
• Standard advanced safety features.
• DC fast-charging capability.

Cons:

• Rear seat space can be a bit tight for taller passengers.
• Cargo space, while decent, is not the largest in its class.
• Some may find the styling to be polarizing.
• Availability may vary depending on the region.

Final Thoughts: Is the Kona EV a Good Buy?

So, is the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV still a good buy in today's market? Absolutely! If you're looking for an affordable, practical, and fun-to-drive EV, the Kona EV is still a strong contender. Its impressive range, quick charging times, and comfortable interior make it a great option for daily commuting and longer trips. The car is still very relevant in today's market. Just make sure to consider the range and charging needs if you are going to purchase this car. Make sure the battery suits your current lifestyle. It’s a testament to the car's innovative design and smart engineering. The Kona EV set new standards for what an electric car could be. And even years later, it remains a smart choice for anyone looking to go electric. Check the used car market! Finding a well-maintained Kona EV could be a great way to enter the EV world without breaking the bank. The Kona EV has a great reputation. It provides a unique driving experience.

Whether you are an EV enthusiast or new to electric cars, it is a great choice. The Kona EV's features make it a great car to drive for all people. The car is a great option in the EV market. The Kona EV's success is evidence that innovation and practicality can coexist. The Kona EV remains a valuable option for anyone looking for an efficient, affordable, and enjoyable electric vehicle.