# 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric: A Compact EV That Surprises
In a market filled with large, luxury electric vehicles (EVs) that come with steep prices, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric emerges as an invigorating choice. It’s neither overly large nor excessively heavy, and it excels in efficiency. For individuals on the hunt for a compact, budget-friendly, and functional EV, the Kona Electric presents an attractive alternative that defies the mainstream trend of automakers focusing solely on producing expansive, costly EVs.
## An Overview of the Kona Electric
The Hyundai Kona Electric has evolved significantly since its debut. The 2025 iteration enhances the achievements of its predecessors, providing a variety of trims and configurations to meet diverse needs and financial plans. The starting model, the SE, is priced at $32,875, while higher-end options like the SEL, N Line, and Limited feature more powerful motors and added amenities.
The Kona Electric SE is equipped with a 133-horsepower (99 kW) motor, whereas the other trims, including the N Line highlighted here, feature a more potent 201-horsepower (150 kW) motor. All variants yield 188 lb-ft (255 Nm) of torque, offering sufficient power for both urban commuting and highway travel.
### Compact and Lightweight Design
A notable attraction of the Kona Electric is its manageable proportions and lighter weight. In a time when numerous EVs weigh nearly three tons, the Kona Electric feels almost light by comparison. The N Line variant, sporting a sporty rear wing and subtly refined front design, spans 172.6 inches (4,384 mm) in length and has a weight of 3,880 lbs (1,760 kg). This makes it a quick and easily maneuverable vehicle, especially in city environments where more substantial EVs can be cumbersome.
The Kona Electric’s compact measurements—71.9 inches (1,826 mm) wide and 62 inches (1,575 mm) tall—render it an excellent choice for those who prefer not to drive a full-size SUV but still desire the versatility of a crossover.
## Performance and Range Options
The 2025 Kona Electric presents various battery options depending on the chosen trim. The fundamental SE model features a smaller 48.6 kWh battery, offering a range of 200 miles (321 km). The more powerful variants, such as the SEL, N Line, and Limited, include a larger 64.8 kWh (usable) battery. The SEL and Limited trims provide an impressive range of 261 miles (420 km), while the N Line, known for its sporty body kit, experiences a range reduction due to its elevated drag coefficient, delivering 230 miles (370 km).
### Charging Options
Charging the Kona Electric is a straightforward affair. Hyundai asserts that the battery can recharge from 10 to 80 percent in merely 43 minutes with a DC fast charger. Although real-world testing didn’t exactly match these figures, a charge from 30 to 80 percent took only 36 minutes, which remains commendable for many drivers. For those using AC charging, the Kona Electric’s 11 kW onboard charger allows for a full charge from 10 to 100 percent in just over six hours.
## Efficiency as a Major Draw
One of the Kona Electric’s most outstanding features is its efficiency. In urban settings, the Kona Electric often surpasses its EPA-rated efficiency, especially in Eco Mode, which enhances throttle response and minimizes energy usage for heating and cooling. In this mode, drivers can reach up to 5 miles per kilowatt-hour (kWh), or 12.4 kWh/100 km, positioning it among the most efficient EVs in its category.
Even in Sport mode, which delivers a more dynamic throttle response, the Kona Electric still achieves a commendable 4 miles per kWh (15.5 kWh/100 km). This level of efficiency makes the Kona Electric a fantastic option for drivers eager to lower energy usage while retaining performance.
### Engaging Driving Experience
While the Kona Electric may not be designed purely for high performance, it nonetheless offers an enjoyable and engaging driving experience. The 201-horsepower motor supplies ample power for typical driving scenarios, and the vehicle’s lightweight construction contributes to its nimbleness and responsiveness. However, the front-wheel-drive format does lead to some torque steer, especially when accelerating aggressively in Sport or Comfort mode.
The Kona Electric’s suspension is calibrated to accommodate the weight of the battery, resulting in a firm ride that might feel somewhat jarring on rough terrain. Nevertheless, this configuration aids in maintaining stability and composure, even during swift cornering.
## Practicality and Interior Amenities
Despite its compact form, the Kona Electric surprises with a generous amount of interior room. The rear cargo compartment offers 25.5 cubic feet
