The Hyundai Kona EV is one of the most underrated cars that's ever sold in India
BHPian abhisheksahas recently shared this with other enthusiasts:
After 30,000 Km in my 2 year old Kona, my thoughts that the Hyundai Kona EV is one of the most underrated cars that's ever sold in India, have been reinforced.
It's not that a perfect car, but I believe that most online review have spread false narratives, in what is clearly, a very good car.
Overview of my recent trips:
- A solo drive from Bangalore to Coimbatore, a distance of approximately 410 km and I was able to complete this drive without any stops for charging.
- A solo drive from Coimbatore to Chennai, a distance of 525 Kms,which I was able to complete this trip with a single 30 minute charging break on a ZEON fast charger., during which I topped up 20 kW
All of my drives were done in eco mode, while staying within the prescribed speed limits.The AC set at 24C and seat ventilation / heating enabled. I use cruise-control for 80%-90% of the time, with region mode set to 0.
Ownership experience
- Advaith Hyundai’s service center on outer ring road has offered a fuss free experience.
- Got PPF done for the entire vehicle from Detailing Bulls for Rs 65,000 right after purchase. Since then, got quite a few nicks on the car. For now, I am happy to live with them.
- The AC compressor stopped working, apparently a known issue with CKD Kona’s and was replaced by Hyundai under warranty.
- The AC vent adjuster for the right side AC broke, and was replaced under warranty. This part apparently costs 5K - 10K.
- The 30,000 service ( done in the 3rd week of Dec 2024 ), cost approximately 12,000 - including wheel balancing, coolant top up, AC disinfection, AC intake filter, and brake cleaning.
- The overall range is about 330-380 Kms on a single charge, and I have a AC charger in my vehicle parking area, bringing the cost per Km to be < Rs 1.
- The car continues to deliver tax benefits under section 80EE.
- Seat ventilation is a great, but seat heating feels amazing during the last phase of long drives.Electronic lumbar adjustment relives stress on lower back towards the end of long rides.
- When the vehicle is full. the tall speed breakers are impossible to escape.
- Ground clearance is a major issue.. The car once got stuck on a poorly designed ramp leading to a basement car parking area. Had to take help from 5-6 people to get the vehicle dislodged.
- Disabled the lock /unlock chiming speaker by unplugging the cable. Alternately, one can also cover the speaker vents with insulation tape to reduce its sound.
- The suspension has been tuned really well. It’s amazing for the pot holes in the city, very few being felt, and quiet too. The highway manners are commendable too.
- The steering is dull and lifeless, and it’s probably the only fly in the ointment.
- The 400 NM torque in sports mode still brings a smile every time I switch it ON.
- Installed the 70Mai Dash Cam on the front as well as the rear.
- Installed the CarlinkKit dongle for Wirless CarPlay and it works flawlessly.
- There is enough place for a frunk, but there isn't one. I have been exploring designs that are available on the web, they need to be be 3D printed, but I have stayed away from it fearing damage to the drivetrain or warranty.
- The tyres have held up okay, with 3 punctures in 3 years and they have been holding up okay. I am hoping to continue using them for an additional 20,000 Kms.
- The boot is plenty spacious (> 350 Lts) for a weekend trip. But, I have found a lot of usable space for knickknacks under the false boot floor.
- The quality of materials for the interiors seem like they would last for a really long time.
- Hyundai’s lack of BlueLink is sorely missed. ADAS and 360 camera would have been welcome additions, but not missed.
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