If you’re searching for your first electric powered car—or just want some thing cheap and realistic for every day commuting—the 2026 Hyundai Kona electric powered deserves a severe appearance. Certain, it’s no longer the quickest, longest-range EV available, but at round $35,000, it’s one of the maximum cheap new electric powered SUVs in america. And it comes with extra style than you would anticipate at this fee point.
What’s New in 2026? Simplicity.
Closing year, the Kona electric lineup had more than one trims, inclusive of a sportier N Line. However for 2026, Hyundai stripped it all the way down to simply one trim: the SE. That means a smaller forty eight.6-kWh battery, a modest 133 horsepower, and a two hundred-mile EPA-predicted variety. No longer groundbreaking—but it’s simple, budget-pleasant, and geared up to move.
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How rapid Is It? Certainly… not Very
Don’t anticipate neck-snapping acceleration. Hyundai hasn’t officially examined the base SE trim, but estimates suggest a zero–60 mph time round 8.6 seconds. That makes it one of the slowest electric powered subcompact SUVs, but again—it’s now not trying to be a Tesla version Y rival. This one’s constructed for regular driving, not drag races.
In which It Wins: charge, comfort, and fashion
- Clean ride: The Kona electric powered is notably cozy for a subcompact. It’s tuned for day by day commuting, now not canyon carving.
- Whisper-Quiet Cabin: That EV silence hits one-of-a-kind on town streets.
- Modern interior: twin-quarter weather manipulate, wireless hotspot, and even clever cruise manage—all trendy.
- Roomy sufficient: in spite of its length, the Kona electric has respectable area for passengers and load.
A higher Deal Than the Kia Niro EV?
Yep, specially in case you’re on a budget. The Kia Niro EV is largely the Kona’s cousin, however it’ll fee you as a minimum $6000 more. You do get greater range (as much as 253 miles) and extra horsepower (201 hp), but the Kona nonetheless supplies strong fee in case your driving wishes are modest.
Final Thoughts:
In case you’re seeking out the most inexpensive manner to head electric powered in 2026 with out sacrificing modern-day capabilities or character, the Hyundai Kona electric powered SE makes a compelling case. It’s easy, smart, and fashionable—even supposing it gained’t win any speed contests.
Backside line? It’s the kind of EV you actually can afford—and that’s well worth celebrating.
Also read: 7 Family-Friendly SUVs You’ll Want to Wait For in 2026