When the Hyundai Kona Electric first launched in India, it was a trailblazer. As one of the country's first long-range electric vehicles, it offered a glimpse into the future of mobility. Fast forward to 2025, and the Indian EV landscape has exploded with formidable competitors.

So, the big question is: In a market now bustling with options, is the Hyundai Kona Electric still a smart buy? This comprehensive buying guide breaks down everything you need to know.

The Big Picture: What is the Kona Electric in 2025?

The Hyundai Kona Electric is a compact electric SUV that sits in a unique spot in Hyundai’s lineup, slotted below the premium and futuristic IONIQ 5. In India, we still get the pre-facelift version of the first-generation Kona. While a brand-new generation is available globally, the model sold here is a proven, reliable, and feature-packed machine.

It’s no longer the newest kid on the block, but it banks on Hyundai’s brand trust, a premium feature list, and a fun-to-drive nature.

Design & Interior: A Mix of Old and New

Exterior:
The Kona’s design is distinct, even today. The sealed-off front grille with its dimpled pattern and the slim LED Daytime Running Lights give it a futuristic look. The charging port is cleverly integrated into the front, making it convenient for nose-in parking at charging stations. However, compared to newer rivals like the MG ZS EV or the sharp-looking Tata Nexon.ev, the Kona’s design is beginning to show its age. It’s neat and tidy, but not a head-turner anymore.

Interior:
Step inside, and the Kona feels less like a radical EV and more like a conventional, premium Hyundai. The dashboard is well-laid-out with a floating touchscreen infotainment system and a fully digital driver’s display. The quality of materials is good, and everything feels solidly put together.

The biggest talking point, and its most significant weakness, is the interior space.

• Front Seats: Comfortable and supportive, with the driver getting a 10-way power-adjustable seat.
• Rear Seats: This is the Kona's Achilles' heel. The floor is very high due to the battery pack underneath, resulting in a knees-up seating position. Legroom is tight, and it’s best suited for two adults for short journeys, or children.
• Boot Space: At 332 litres, it’s adequate for city errands and weekend trips but smaller than its key rival, the MG ZS EV.

Battery, Range, and Performance: The Heart of the Matter

This is where the Kona Electric still makes a strong case for itself.

• Battery and Range: It comes with a 39.2 kWh battery pack. While the ARAI-certified range is an optimistic 452 km, you can expect a realistic real-world range of 300-350 km on a full charge. This is more than enough for daily city commuting and occasional highway trips.
• Performance: This is the Kona’s party trick. With 136 PS and a massive 395 Nm of instant torque, it’s incredibly zippy. A tap on the accelerator gives you an instant surge of power, making it a joy to drive in city traffic. Overtakes are effortless. It does 0-100 km/h in under 10 seconds, which is impressively quick.
• Driving Modes: You get Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes to alter the throttle response. You can also adjust the level of regenerative braking using the paddle shifters, which allows for one-pedal driving in the city.

Charging: How Long Does It Take?

• AC Charging (7.2kW Wallbox): A full charge from 0-100% takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes. This is ideal for overnight home charging.
• DC Fast Charging (50kW): You can juice up the battery from 0-80% in just under an hour (approx. 57 minutes). This is perfect for highway top-ups.

The Pros: Why You Should Buy the Kona Electric

1. Fun-to-Drive Performance: The instant torque makes it an absolute rocket in the city. It’s engaging and will put a smile on your face.
2. Feature-Rich Cabin: Hyundai has loaded it with features like ventilated and heated front seats, an electric sunroof, a 10-way power driver's seat, a digital instrument cluster, and wireless phone charging.
3. Proven and Reliable: Having been on the market for years, the Kona is a tested product. Its battery and motor technology are reliable.
4. Extremely Low Running Costs: Like any EV, the running costs are a fraction of a petrol or diesel car, typically around Rs.1-1.5 per kilometre.
5. Premium Brand Experience: Hyundai's vast service network and brand perception provide peace of mind.

The Cons: Reasons to Reconsider

1. Severely Cramped Rear Seat: This is the biggest deal-breaker. If you frequently travel with family or four adults, the Kona is not the right car for you.
2. Dated Design: Both inside and out, it looks a generation older than its direct competitors and even other cars in Hyundai’s own portfolio.
3. Stiff Ride Quality: The suspension is set on the firmer side. While it helps with handling, it can feel a bit jarring and uncomfortable on broken Indian roads.
4. High Price for the Space Offered: When compared to rivals, the Kona feels expensive for the practicality and space it delivers.

The Competition in 2025

The Kona Electric faces stiff competition from all sides:

• MG ZS EV: The Kona’s most direct rival. It offers a larger battery, significantly more rear-seat space, a panoramic sunroof, a more modern design, and a softer ride.
• Tata Nexon.ev (Long Range): India’s best-selling EV. It’s more affordable, packed with tech (including a larger touchscreen), and offers comparable real-world range, making it incredible value for money.
• Mahindra XUV400: Offers blistering performance and good space but loses out on interior quality and features compared to the Kona.
• BYD Atto 3: Positioned slightly higher, it offers a futuristic interior, a larger battery using advanced Blade Battery tech, and more space, but at a premium price.

The Verdict: Who Should Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric in 2025?

The Hyundai Kona Electric is no longer the default choice, but it has carved out a niche for a very specific buyer.

You should buy the Kona Electric if:

• You are an individual or a couple primarily looking for a city car.
• You want a second car that is fun, feature-loaded, and has zero emissions.
• You prioritise brand reliability and a premium features list (like ventilated seats) over rear-seat space.
• You love its zippy performance and want an engaging driving experience.

You should look elsewhere if:

• You need a family car with comfortable seating for four or five adults.
• You are on a tighter budget (the Nexon.ev is better value).
• You want the latest design and a more spacious cabin (the MG ZS EV is the better choice).

In conclusion, the Hyundai Kona Electric is a premium, feature-packed, and fun-to-drive personal mobility vehicle. It’s a fantastic city runabout with proven EV tech. However, its practicality is severely limited by its cramped rear seat and its price feels steep in the face of newer, more spacious competition. It remains a competent choice, but only for those whose needs perfectly align with its unique strengths and compromises.