So you‘ve decided to go electric for your next vehicle purchase. Two affordable and efficient models catching your eye are the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric and Chevy Bolt EV. But with both touting ample range and high-tech features, how do you choose between these zippy electric crossovers?
As an auto industry analyst and EV owner myself, I‘ve done deep dives on both models to see how they stack up. After reviewing specs, test drive results and ownership experiences, I can guide you through each vehicle‘s pros and cons. Read on as we explore key decision points from zippy acceleration to infotainment tech to passenger space and value.
Whether you‘re new to EVs or simply value straight talk on one of the hottest vehicle segments out there, you’ll navigate your purchase with confidence after this review. Time to unlock the perks of going electric!
Quick History
Korean automaker Hyundai arrived at the EV party slightly later than US rivals. After launching hybrid models through the 2010s, their first fully battery-powered vehicle debuted in early 2018.
Dubbed the Kona Electric, Hyundai opted for a small crossover body style to balance utility and efficiency. The subcompact SUV shaperode a wave of popularity carrying brands like Honda’s HR-V. Combining a stylish, youthful design with ample range and standard all-wheel drive, the Kona Electric carved out a niche.
After a 2022 upgrade boosting horsepower and tech features, the Kona continues winning awards and drawing in new EV buyers.
General Motors also committed seriously to electric drivetrains in the mid 2010s. Their Chevrolet Bolt EV beat the Kona to market, first selling in late 2016 as a 2017 model year. It was among the first EVs cracking the 200+ mile range barrier without luxury car pricing.
The Bolt’s entry-level cost and seating for five summoned comparisons to GM’s classic Chevy Volt hybrid. Lauded as a milestone for affordable EVs, the hatchback Bolt became Chevy’s guinea pig for tech later shared across GM’s growing electric lineup.
Now, with over 300,000 Bolts on the road and ambitious production targets set through 2030, the original still holds appeal. Which truly makes the better buy? Let’s dive into the details.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
The joy of driving plays a key role in any car purchase. Beyond just getting from A to B, which of these deliver smiles behind the wheel?
On paper, the Kona Electric appears sportier. Its front-mounted electric motor packs 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft torque compared to the Bolt‘s 200 horsepower and 266 torque. Translation— those extra horses get you up to speed quicker, with Hyundai quoting sub-seven-second 0-60 times. Compare that to GM’s admittedly conservatively-rated 6.5 seconds for the Bolt.
Reviewers universally praise the Kona’s nimble handling and steering as well. Athletic, dynamic cornering stands out as a high point drivers and critics alike rave about. Roll the two side by side on mountain switchbacks and the Kona pulls ahead.
Don‘t fully count out the Bolt yet though. While acceleration runs slightly behind, the powertrain and steering deliver confidence. Running a 7.5 second 0-60 still beats plenty of gas cars. Reviewers compliment composure and stability at highway speeds. Enthusiasts who adapt a smooth driving style will keep up momentum in the corners.
Performance and Handling
| Spec | Kona Electric | Bolt EV |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 201 | 200 |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 291 | 266 |
| 0-60 mph (sec) | 6.6 | 6.5 |
| Top Speed | 104 mph | 93 mph |
| Suspension | MacPherson strut front/multi-link rear | MacPherson strut front/torsion beam rear |
| Steering | Motor-driven power steering | Electric power steering |
For driving enjoyment, the Kona Electric lives up to its name as a lively runabout. The Bolt trails slightly on raw metrics but offers composed steering and stability of its own. Consider your driving style in choosing between sporty agility or smooth stability.
Charging Convenience
Now to consider the electricity delivery itself. Charging speed and convenience play an often underrated role in ensuring an enjoyable electrified lifestyle. Which handles replenishing those electrons back into the battery pack best?
Home charging works similarly between the two. Both utilize 7.2 kW onboard chargers, meaning identical 220-volt Level 2 charging hardware works for either. With the Kona’s bigger 64 kWh battery, expect full recharges in around 9 hours. The Bolt’s 65 kWh pack requires approximately 7 hours.
For context, that easily regains a full charge overnight during home garage parking. However, the Kona pulls ahead when fast public DC charging enters the equation. Its 100 kW charging capacity can add roughly 70 miles of range in just 10 minutes at compatible stations. Replenishing from 10 to 80% capacity takes under an hour.
The Bolt accepts lower 50-55 kW current levels, translating to about 95 miles of range per hour of charging. This longer time could mean extra waiting during road trips.
I‘ll emphasize most owners rely overwhelmingly on home charging for daily commutes, with DC fast charging used for long trips. Still, that high-capacity infrastruture support provides flexibility and convenience valued by many buyers.
Charging and Range
| Spec | Kona Electric | Bolt EV |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 64 kWh | 65 kWh |
| EPA Range | 258 miles | 259 miles |
| Onboard Charger | 7.2 kW | 7.2 kW |
| Level 2 Charge Time | 9 hours 10 mins | 7 hours |
| Fast Charge Rate | 100 kW | 55 kW |
| Fast Charge Time (10-80%) | Under 60 minutes | 60 minutes (adds 95 miles) |
The Kona’s wireless phone charger symbolizes the high-tech playful vibe carried throughout the crossover’s design. Handy features like heated seats, proximity entry and dual automatic climate control round out the comforts. However, taller drivers call out slightly limited legroom compared to other compact SUVs.
Storage space also trails roomier rivals, with 19.2 cubic feet behind the second row and 45.8 cubes total with the 60/40 split seats folded. You’ll fit daily shopping runs and travel bags comfortably, but likely not that new 65 inch TV. Prioritize cargo accordingly when comparing.
Passenger and Cargo Room
As with any personal vehicle purchase, factoring in passenger and gear hauling needs tops most shoppers’ checklists. Between battery packs eating up underfloor space or aerodynamic profiles, EVs often pay for efficiency with lost utility.
Let’s check how people and payload accommodation stack up. Right away, dimensions give the Bolt EV an advantage. Length comes in a full 15 inches greater while riding on a 2.6 inch longer wheelbase. Width and height stay closer between the two, still biased towards the Bolt.
This extra footprint pays dividends inside for both passengers and hauling. Five adult passengers have no issue getting comfortable with generous 44.3 inches of front legroom and impressive 36.1 inches in back. Even tall adults avoid playing knee wars aboard the Bolt.
Cargo flexibility also impresses for a compact EV. The deep rear holds 16.6 cubes behind the rear bench. Folding the 60/40 split seat opens up 57 cubic feet, handy for bulky shopping items or packing everything plus the kitchen sink on getaways. With backseats down, the Bolt can handle an impressive 4’ x 8’ sheet of plywood.
The Kona isn’t exactly cramped by any means, but does surrender some roominess and cargo versatility. Up front, 41.5 inches of stretch out space keeps the driver and shotgun rider happy. Tall riders feel things tighten up in back however, with only 33.4 inches between seat cushion and the backs of the front chairs.
Luggage room rates closer to a hatchback than SUV with 19.2 cubic feet available. The second row folds flatter than the Bolt’s, although maximum capacity only reaches 45.8 cubes. Room for a bike or set of golf clubs fits with ease, but bulkier items may need a roof rack. Take measurements of larger items you haul regularly before deciding.
Interior Dimensions
| Spec | Kona Electric | Bolt EV |
|---|---|---|
| Front Legroom | 41.5 inches | 44.3 inches |
| Rear Legroom | 33.4 inches | 36.1 inches |
| Front Headroom | 39.6 inches | 39.7 inches |
| Rear Headroom | 37.8 inches | 37.9 inches |
| Cargo Capacity | 19.2 cubic ft (45.8 cubic feet with rear seats folded) | 16.6 cubic ft (57.0 cubic feet with rear seats folded) |
So while neither model wins SUV of the year awards for packing capacity, the Chevy Bolt’s smart use of space beats out the style-centric Hyundai. Driving habits that lean more urban than outback complement the Bolt’s blend of nimble handling with Tardis-like roominess.
