The Good
The 2019 Kona EV offers brisk acceleration and a fun driving experience (emotional). It's efficient with a long range and low running costs (practical). Owners appreciate its comfortable ride, stylish design, and generally good reliability. Its overall value proposition, considering the features and electric powertrain, is a major advantage.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses include limited rear passenger space and cargo capacity compared to some competitors. Some owners have reported issues with the onboard charger and battery management system. Watch for battery degradation over time, especially in hot climates. Software glitches have also been reported. The availability of replacement parts could also be a concern.
2019 Hyundai Kona EV: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: Single electric motor
- Horsepower: 201 hp
- Fuel Economy: EPA-estimated 120 city/ 93 highway/ 108 combined MPGe
- 0-60 Times: Approximately 6.4 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Not recommended or rated for towing
Trim-Level Features:
- SEL:
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning
- Heated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Limited: (Adds to SEL)
- Leather upholstery
- 8-inch touchscreen display with navigation
- Power driver's seat
- LED headlights and taillights
- Sunroof
- Wireless device charging
- Ultimate: (Adds to Limited)
- Head-Up Display (HUD)
- Parking Distance Warning - Rear
- Automatic high beams
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Heated steering wheel
2019 Hyundai Kona EV Specifications
Vehicle History Report
What Problems Does the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV Have?
Recalls have addressed issues such as potential battery fires. Owners should check the NHTSA website for the most up-to-date recall information related to their specific vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability is still being evaluated, but the battery health and charging system remain key areas of concern. Software updates are sometimes necessary to address BMS and charging issues. It's critical to maintain the vehicle according to the manufacturer's recommendations and promptly address any warning lights or unusual behavior.
How long will the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Regarding safety, the 2019 Kona EV received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), including a "Top Safety Pick+" award when equipped with specific headlights. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also awarded it a 5-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features include multiple airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams, enhancing both convenience and safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2019 Hyundai Kona EV Prices and Market Value
2019 Hyundai Kona EV Cost of Ownership
2019 Hyundai Kona EV Fuel Efficiency
2019 Hyundai Kona EV Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV Compare to Other Vehicle?
In terms of reliability, the Kona EV has had some reported issues, particularly with the charging system, which could make the Bolt EV a slightly more reliable choice. Price-wise, these vehicles are typically in a similar range on the used market. Depending on individual needs, the Bolt EV could be a better alternative for someone prioritizing range and potentially reliability, while the Niro EV offers similar benefits as the Kona EV with a slightly different design. Newer models of these competing vehicles often offer improved range and features, so comparing across model years is also crucial.
Ranks #831 SUV
| 1 | 2023 Toyota 4Runner | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus GX | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Subaru Crosstrek | (5.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW iX | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Bronco Sport | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz EQB | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2024 Chevrolet Trax | (5.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Audi A4 allroad | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Kona N | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan ARIYA | (5.0★) |
| 831 | 2019 Hyundai Kona EV | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2019 Hyundai Kona EV a Good Vehicle?
Elechic on December 17, 2023
Almost 5 Years In - We love our Kona ElectricWe've had our 2019 Kona Electric Ultimate for almost 5 years. She's been a great car. Super easy to maintain -- tires, windshield wiper blades and fluid, cabin filters. The 12v battery needs to be replaced a bit. Otherwise, no complaints. She's fun to drive, easy to care for, low maintenance costs. Really good car!!
Rick on June 30, 2023
What's not to love?My first EV, bought used in 2023. I've gone 2,500 miles in it and loved all of them. I thought about a hybrid before deciding I wanted a pure EV without redundant systems. I opted for the highest trim, with its adaptive cruise control, heated and cooled seats, nav, better audio, etc. The car has instantaneous power, and plenty of it; seating is comfortable in front and doable in back; a low center of gravity helps it dance through curves, and it feels nimble and quick at highway speeds. If you use it as a city hopper then standard wall outlet 110v charging is probably fine, getting you some 50 miles overnight. So far I still think "what's not to love!"
Diana on April 12, 2021
ExcitedI am so pleased with everything about this vehicle! It handles great in each drive mode. The safety features are all encompassing. Though it's small, it is comfortable. Going electric was scary at first, but I'm loving every mile of it. I get excited every time I get in it!
peterb on February 16, 2021
electric cars are the future, this is my firstI want to reduce my carbon impact, use less petrochemicals. this is my first electric. after a few days, I would say that this is positive. the 110 charging does take longer than I imagined it would.
CPF5 on January 6, 2021
Practical, fun to driveThe only cons are that the low resistance tires don't grip too well on wet roads, the back seat is tight, and the heater fan puts a significant drain on mileage. Everything else I love about the car. Since the back seat is mostly used by the dog and I use the heated seats rather than the fan, the cons are not a big deal. If you drive a lot, I recommend a 40 amp charger so you can charge overnight with no problem: 6 to 8 hours.
Ready Killowatt EV Driver on November 5, 2020
Hyundai KONA EV 250 miles per ChargeMy HYUNDAI KONA EV is FABULOUS ! It gets 250 Miles with a Full Charge ! I can drive around Columbus all Week with an initial FULL Charge. I regularly Drive to Cincinnati then to Dayton and Back To Columbus without having to Charge ! The KONA EV is a medium sized SUV Style with a Back Hatch Door and Fold- Down Rear Seats ! It will haul a lot of Cargo
Mattsburgh on June 27, 2020
Best car I've ever owned or even drivenI love this car and routinely get around 300 miles of range in local and city driving, about 225 on the highway. Have had zero issues in a year and a half since purchase and has needed no maintenance other than tire rotation. Electric is the way to go!
Hali in Cali on April 20, 2020
Fun,sporty commuter carDoes exactly what i need for 50 miles daily commute. Free charging at work, great torque for freeway merging.great mileage. Low center of gravity makes this little hatchback handle pretty well IMHO. Rear seating is a bit cramped for those with a family which is not me. She will run effortlessly at 90 mph. Zero vibration and a sweet mild jet engine sound. My main attraction was lack of maintenance. Tire rotation at 6k. Gear box oil chang at somewhere in the 40 or 50k area ,about it.thats nice.no belts, emissions equipment, oil,filters etc. The initia high purchase price will be offset with low maintenance costs.
Becky D. on April 10, 2020
Such a fun little SUV!I am in love with my Kona! It has all the small vehicle feel with the SUV capability. The only thing I wish it had is a push button open for the cargo area. But there is nothing else I would change! This is excellent value for such a fun vehicle!!
BlueKonaEV on February 16, 2020
Impressive range and great powerBought my Kona Electric 6/28/2019 in Maryland and drove it down to Central Florida where I live. 7.5 months and 21500 miles later I'm still as impressed with the car and it's range as I was on the first day. I'm getting over 300 miles on a charge except for higher speed road trips.. I still get about 250 mile range at 70 mph.. Around town, range is closer to 330 miles. Power is impressive. All wheel drive would be great as it is hard to put all that torque on the road. After 21500 miles, I have not noticed any battery degradation.. I'm currently getting about 260 mile range at 80% charge.. I can say with certainty that I will never go back to an ICE daily driver..
Eugene S
Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.