2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL: Review, Specs & More!
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL. If you're on the hunt for an affordable, eco-friendly ride that doesn’t skimp on features, this could be your next dream car. We're going to cover everything from its performance and range to its interior comforts and tech goodies. So, buckle up and let’s get started!
Overview of the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL
The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is part of Hyundai's commitment to bringing electric vehicles to the masses. This compact SUV combines the practicality of a small family car with the environmental benefits of an all-electric powertrain. It’s designed to appeal to a broad audience, from eco-conscious commuters to small families needing a versatile vehicle. The SEL trim sits in the sweet spot of the Kona Electric lineup, offering a balance of essential features and affordability. It builds upon the base SE trim by adding more convenience and tech features without breaking the bank. The exterior design maintains the Kona’s distinctive and somewhat quirky styling, ensuring it stands out in a crowded market of SUVs. Under the hood, or rather, under the floor, is a capable electric motor paired with a battery pack that provides a decent range for daily driving. Overall, the Kona Electric SEL is a well-rounded package that offers a compelling entry point into the world of electric vehicles.
Exterior Design
The exterior design of the 2023 Kona Electric SEL is eye-catching and modern. It features a closed-off front grille, which is a signature element of electric vehicles, giving it a sleek and aerodynamic look. The slim LED daytime running lights and the stacked headlight design contribute to its distinctive face. The body-colored accents and stylish alloy wheels add a touch of sophistication. The Kona Electric maintains the traditional SUV stance with its raised ride height and robust body cladding, giving it a rugged yet refined appearance. The rear of the vehicle features unique taillight designs and a sculpted tailgate, completing the overall contemporary aesthetic. The charging port is conveniently located in the front grille, making it easily accessible. Available in a range of vibrant colors, the Kona Electric SEL allows drivers to express their personality and style. The overall design strikes a balance between futuristic and familiar, making it appealing to a wide range of buyers.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Inside the 2023 Kona Electric SEL, you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped cabin designed with the driver and passengers in mind. The seats are supportive, making both short commutes and longer trips enjoyable. The interior features quality materials and a thoughtfully laid-out dashboard. The centerpiece is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration of your smartphone. The system is responsive and easy to use, providing access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings. The Kona Electric SEL also includes a digital instrument cluster, providing important information such as speed, battery level, and range in a clear and concise manner. Standard features include automatic climate control, keyless entry, and a rearview camera. Overall, the interior of the Kona Electric SEL is a pleasant and functional space, making it a great place to spend time on the road.
Performance and Range
Let's talk about what really makes the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL tick: its performance and range. This EV is powered by a single electric motor that delivers a respectable 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. What does that mean for you? Quick acceleration and plenty of oomph for merging onto highways or zipping around town. The Kona Electric SEL feels peppy and responsive, making it a fun daily driver. Now, the big question: range. The Kona Electric SEL boasts an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles on a full charge. That's pretty solid and should be more than enough for most daily commutes and weekend trips. Of course, your actual range will vary depending on driving conditions, temperature, and your driving style. But overall, the Kona Electric SEL offers a competitive range that makes it a practical choice for many EV buyers. Plus, with DC fast charging capability, you can add a significant amount of range in a relatively short amount of time.
Motor and Battery
Delving deeper into the specifics, the 2023 Kona Electric SEL features a 64 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This battery provides the energy to power the electric motor and achieve that 258-mile range we mentioned earlier. The electric motor itself is a permanent magnet synchronous motor, known for its efficiency and reliability. It delivers power to the front wheels, providing brisk acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The battery is located under the floor of the vehicle, which helps to lower the center of gravity and improve handling. Hyundai offers a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery, giving you peace of mind about its longevity. The battery management system is designed to optimize performance and extend the life of the battery. Overall, the motor and battery combination in the Kona Electric SEL provides a well-balanced blend of power, range, and efficiency.
Charging Time
Okay, so how long does it take to charge the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL? That depends on the charging method you use. If you're using a Level 1 charger (a standard household outlet), it's going to take a while – we're talking upwards of 50 hours for a full charge. Not ideal for most people. A Level 2 charger (240-volt outlet), which is what most EV owners install at home, will significantly reduce charging time to around 9 hours for a full charge. This is much more convenient, allowing you to charge overnight and wake up to a full battery every morning. But the fastest way to charge is with a DC fast charger. Using a DC fast charger, you can add about 100 miles of range in approximately 30 minutes. This is great for road trips or when you need to quickly top up your battery. The Kona Electric SEL supports DC fast charging at up to 100 kW, which is pretty standard for EVs in its class. Keep in mind that charging times can vary depending on the charging station's output and the battery's current state of charge.
Key Features of the SEL Trim
The SEL trim of the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric really hits the sweet spot for value and features. You get a significant upgrade over the base SE model without jumping to the much pricier Limited trim. One of the standout features of the SEL is the larger 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This makes it super easy to integrate your smartphone for navigation, music, and calls. You also get a suite of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. These features can help prevent accidents and make driving safer and more comfortable. Other niceties included in the SEL trim are heated front seats, which are a welcome addition on cold mornings, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel for a more premium feel. The SEL also gets upgraded exterior styling elements, such as roof rails and unique alloy wheels. Overall, the SEL trim provides a great balance of features, technology, and safety, making it a popular choice among Kona Electric buyers.
Safety Features
When it comes to safety, the 2023 Kona Electric SEL doesn't hold back. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety technologies designed to protect you and your passengers. These features include forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects a potential collision. Lane-keeping assist helps you stay within your lane by providing gentle steering corrections. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, and rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up. The Kona Electric SEL also includes driver attention warning, which monitors your driving patterns and alerts you if it detects signs of fatigue or distraction. In addition to these advanced features, the Kona Electric SEL also comes with standard safety equipment such as anti-lock brakes, electronic stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Kona Electric has earned good safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), giving you added confidence in its ability to protect you in the event of a crash.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2023 Kona Electric SEL is packed with technology and connectivity features that enhance your driving experience. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is the 8-inch touchscreen display, which is easy to use and responsive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The Kona Electric SEL also includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming. A USB port is provided for charging your devices, and a wireless charging pad is available as an option. The digital instrument cluster provides important information about the vehicle's performance and range in a clear and concise manner. The Kona Electric SEL also offers Hyundai's Blue Link connected car services, which allows you to remotely control certain vehicle functions, such as locking and unlocking the doors, starting the engine, and setting the climate control. Blue Link also provides access to features such as automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, and stolen vehicle recovery. Overall, the Kona Electric SEL is a tech-savvy vehicle that keeps you connected and informed on the road.
Pricing and Availability
Alright, let's talk money. The 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL typically starts around $35,000, but keep in mind that this can vary depending on your location, options, and any available incentives. And that’s before any federal, state, or local tax credits or rebates, which can significantly lower the price. Keep an eye on the official Hyundai website or your local dealership for the most up-to-date pricing information. As for availability, the Kona Electric SEL is generally available at Hyundai dealerships across the United States. However, inventory can sometimes be limited due to high demand and production constraints. It's always a good idea to check with your local dealer to see if they have the Kona Electric SEL in stock or if you need to place an order. Also, be aware that availability can vary depending on your region, as some states have more aggressive EV incentives and infrastructure than others.
Incentives and Tax Credits
One of the biggest advantages of buying an electric vehicle like the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is the potential to save money through incentives and tax credits. The federal government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500 for eligible electric vehicles, which can significantly reduce the purchase price. However, it’s important to note that eligibility for this credit may depend on your individual tax situation and the vehicle's battery components being manufactured and assembled in North America. In addition to the federal tax credit, many states and local governments offer their own incentives for EV purchases, such as rebates, tax credits, and reduced registration fees. These incentives can vary widely depending on your location, so it's worth researching what's available in your area. Some utility companies also offer incentives for installing a Level 2 charger at your home. Taking advantage of these incentives can make the Kona Electric SEL even more affordable and help you save money over the long term.
Final Thoughts
So, what’s the final verdict on the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL? Overall, it's a fantastic option if you're looking to make the jump to electric. It offers a compelling blend of affordability, range, features, and practicality. The Kona Electric SEL is fun to drive, comfortable, and packed with technology. While it may not be the flashiest or most luxurious EV on the market, it provides excellent value for the money. The range is sufficient for most daily driving needs, and the availability of DC fast charging makes it convenient for longer trips. The SEL trim hits the sweet spot in the Kona Electric lineup, offering a great balance of features and price. And with the potential for significant savings through incentives and tax credits, the Kona Electric SEL can be a smart financial choice as well. If you're in the market for an electric SUV, the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is definitely worth a look.
