Electric vehicles (EVs) are all the rage these days, for good reason. Not only are lower emissions increasingly mandated by governments worldwide, but a rising number of consumers prefer eco-conscious cars. Manufacturers have beefed up their EV offerings in response. Therefore, Hyundai enthusiasts may have seen and been considering the new 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric. However, according to Consumer Reports, the Kona Electric leaves something to be desired, with several more satisfying electric competitors on the market.
Consumer Reports’ opinion of the Hyundai Kona Electric
Reviewers at Consumer Reports found much to like about the Hyundai Kona Electric, namely its performance, handling, and price. Paired with a 64-kWh lithium-ion battery, it generates a respectable 201 horsepower and can run 258 miles on a single charge. While noting its stiff ride, CR reviewers praised its quick acceleration (0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds), as well as its driver/passenger access, interior tech, and standard safety features.
That said, CR also highlighted that the cabin is relatively sparse with hard plastic trim that isn’t pleasant for, say, resting one’s elbows. It’s also quite tight, so tall drivers and riders beware. Coupled with the noisiness, the Kona Electric doesn’t provide the most comfortable driving or riding experience, which helped bring its predicted owner satisfaction ratings down to a 2 out of 5.
Bringing down the model’s rating further was the question of value. With a starting MSRP of $34,000, it’s relatively affordable compared to others in its class. However, considering the lack of interior styling and features, the pricing doesn’t seem to fit what you get.
EVs better than the Kona Electric, according to Consumer Reports research
Consumer Reports recently published a list of the “Most & Least Satisfying Electric Vehicles and Hybrids.” Unfortunately, the Hyundai Kona Electric is at the top of the list. If you’re looking for the most satisfying EVs, you might consider looking at Tesla models.
If you’re wondering whether CR is suffering from the bandwagon effect, it isn’t, as the company is very critical of Tesla in terms of reliability rating. However, Tesla models excel in performance, handling, comfort, and features. Consumer Reports listed the 2022 Tesla Model 3 and 2022 Tesla Model S as the most satisfying EVs on the market, according to feedback from owners and drivers.
Consumer Reports’ highly recommends the 2022 Tesla Model 3
As per Consumer Reports, the latest Tesla Model 3 continues to impress with a stylish exterior and electric powertrain that takes drivers between 263 and 353 miles, depending on the variant selected. The Model 3 can hit 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, and while it can take up to 12 hours to fully charge, its running costs are approximately a third of those of its gas-powered competitors.
While its ride is pretty stiff, the Model 3’s engine is near-silent. It’s susceptible to wind noise at high speeds, but the roomy interior and quality styling offset these issues. Visibility, driving position, and seat comfort also get high marks. The seats have good lumbar support, though rear-seat access isn’t the best. Still, the Model 3 provides a pleasant ride, complemented by tech features.
Model 3 owners are treated to a 15-inch touchscreen that handles everything from navigation to climate functions. The screen also allows drivers to take calls and even do voice dictation. However, the Model 3 is incompatible with Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, so you’ll have to get used to their proprietary system as well. Still, based on the consumer feedback of previous models, CR believes you’ll be delighted with the 2022 model year.
The Tesla Model S was a runner up
However, if you’re looking for ultraluxury, Consumer Reports thinks the Tesla Model S should be your pick. The Model S is quick, hitting 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, while the Long Range model can hit an electric driving range of 405 miles on one charge. It also generates 670 horsepower from dual motors, though if you want more, the S Plaid variant produces a whopping 1,020 horsepower from three motors. AWD is standard on either version and helps ensure smooth handling.
If there’s an area that impedes performance, it’s the Model S’s steering yoke. The yoke steering wheel takes quite a bit of getting used to and can be an issue for novice drivers handling sharp braking or acceleration. Still, once mastered, it does ably unlock this Tesla’s handling potential and provides superior performance.
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