Both the 2025 Hyundai Kona and the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric are subcompact SUVs, and while they share some similar features, they each have their own personalities and feats of engineering. With the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) rising over the last few years, great strides have been made in their performance, technology, and efficiency. If you’re weighing your options between a conventional gas-powered vehicle like the 2025 Kona and giving the 2025 Kona EV a try, this guide is intended to highlight the perks of each choice. Read on to learn about the differences between the Kona and Kona EV.
Hyundai Kona Vs. Hyundai Kona EV: Performance
Both the Kona and Kona EV offer drivers a choice between two powertrain options. For the gas-powered Kona, you have the choice between a 2.0L, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged 1.6L, 4-cylinder option worth 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The Kona EV gives drivers the choice between two single-motor options. One is a single electric motor worth 133 horsepower, while the other motor delivers 201 horsepower. Regardless of which engine you choose for the Kona EV, you’ll be in control of 188 pound-feet of torque.
Front-wheel drive is standard on all trim levels of the Kona and Kona EV. However, the gas-powered Kona has available all-wheel drive for all trims, while the EV does not have the option. If you prefer going off-road, the gas Kona with all-wheel drive is your best bet for safe and capable handling.
Hyundai Kona Vs. Hyundai Kona EV: MPG vs Range
There are a few factors that affect MPG for gas-powered vehicles and range for EVs. All-wheel drive often gets slightly lower MPG compared to front-wheel drive, and stronger (or in this case, turbocharged engines will have reduced fuel efficiency. For EVs, the biggest factors are the sizes of the motor and battery.
- Hyundai Kona FWD MPG: Approximately 28 MPG city / 35 MPG highway
- Hyundai Kona AWD MPG: Approximately 26 MPG city / 29 MPG highway
- Hyundai Kona EV MPGe: Approximately 129 MPGe city / 103 MPGe highway.
- Hyundai Kona EV Range: 200 miles (48.6 kWh battery) / 260 miles (64.8 kWh battery).
Hyundai Kona Vs. Hyundai Kona EV: Interior and Technology
Both the Hyundai Kona and the Hyundai Kona EV are roughly the same size and seat five (5) passengers. There are only slight differences in the interior dimensions between the two models, listed below:
Hyundai Kona Interior
- Max cargo space: 63.7 cubic feet
- Max passenger volume: 101.2 cubic feet
Hyundai Kona EV Interior
- Max cargo space: 63.7 cubic feet
- Max passenger volume: 99 cubic feet
If you’re looking for a little extra leg and shoulder room, the gas-powered Kona may be the better choice.
Both the Kona and Kona EV feature dual 12.3” displays: one for driver information and one for infotainment. A Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto are standard across all trims of both models. Wireless charging options are available, while USB ports and rear-view cameras are standard for both the Kona and Kona EV.
Hyundai Kona Vs. Hyundai Kona EV: Safety
Both models come equipped with Hyundai SafetySense, the safety suite of driver assistance features to protect you on your rides. Blind-spot collision warning, lane assist, and forward collision assist with pedestrian detection are standard. Advanced forward collision warning and highway driving assist are standard on the Kona EV and available on the Kona. There are several other safety features that come standard on the Kona EV that are available options on the Kona, so call us at (786) 623-6062 to speak with an associate to learn more.
Hyundai Kona Vs. Hyundai Kona EV: Price
The 2025 Hyundai Kona starts at $24,550 for the base-level trim and goes up to $32,100 for the top-level trim. The Hyundai Kona EV has a bit higher price range, starting at $32,975 and going up to $41,150 before any additions or packages. The higher price for the EV variant is to be expected, as EV batteries are more expensive as a whole, and more manufacturing cost goes into the development of the vehicles.
However, despite the higher starting prices, the Kona EV will have fewer maintenance costs over the lifespan of the vehicle as there are fewer moving parts. One significant instance of maintenance savings comes from the lack of necessary oil changes because EVs do not require them. Gas prices vs. battery charging are dependent on which gas station you go to near Miami, but overall, charging EVs costs less than refilling a gas tank.
Lastly, there are federal tax credits and incentives for purchasing EVs like the Kona EV. You could save up to $7,500 with these incentives, so be sure to ask our sales team about offers and incentives available.
Which Kona Will You Choose?
Still having trouble deciding which Hyundai Kona is the right fit for your needs? Head down to Braman Hyundai of Miami, proudly serving residents of Hialeah, Coral Gables, Doral, and beyond, and explore our full lineup of new Hyundai vehicles. Contact us today to learn more and to schedule a test drive of the Hyundai Kona or the Hyundai Kona EV.