Hyundai Kona: India's first fully-electric subcompact SUV launched
What's the story
South Korean automaker Hyundai has launched its first fully-electric crossover in India, the Hyundai Kona. The subcompact SUV has been brought in India through the Completely Knocked Down (CKD) route and will be assembled at the Hyundai's production unit in Chennai. The fully-electric Kona has been priced at Rs. 25.30 lakh (ex-showroom) in the country. Here's more.
Looks
Let's take a look at the Hyundai Kona
Right off the bat, the Hyundai Kona looks similar to its elder sibling, the Hyundai Creta. The fully-electric crossover gets a distinctive design with a closed front grille, sharp-edged stylish bumpers, rain-sensing wipers, and roof rails. For lighting, it houses twin LED auto headlamps with daytime running lights and LED taillamps. Moreover, it will be offered in White, Silver, Blue, and Black colors.
Interiors
Inside the cabin
The Hyundai Kona offers attractive interiors with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, wireless charging, and an electric sunroof. The crossover sports an 8-inch touchscreen panel with satellite navigation and heads up display. It also gets connectivity features like real-time traffic updates, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Interestingly, it also has a virtual engine sound system which makes silent EV sound like a conventional car.
Engine
Power and Performance
Internationally, the Hyundai Kona is offered in two electric motor options: 100kW motor and a 150kW unit. In India, it will be available with a 100kW motor which churns out 131bhp of power and 395Nm of peak torque. Further, the Indian version can do 0-100kmph in just 9.7 seconds and promises an ARAI-certified range of 452km on a single charge.
Safety
Hyundai Kona: On the road
The Hyundai Kona comes equipped with ABS along with EBD, ESC and traction control for better grip on the road. The crossover gets some advanced safety features including hill assist control, tire pressure monitoring system, blind spot detection, and rear parking sensors among others. Moreover, the subcompact SUV gets six airbags along with child safety locks.
Information
Finally, what about pricing?
As for the pocket pinch, the Hyundai Kona has been priced at Rs. 25.30 lakh in India. Even though there are no direct rivals to the Hyundai Kona in the country, it will square off with the likes of the MG Hector and Tata Harrier.