Hyundai Kona Electric facelift revealed

The Hyundai Kona Electric facelift has been revealed for international markets and has received the petrol-engined Kona’s refreshed styling and a raft of technology upgrades for 2021.

• Kona Electric facelift gets updated exterior styling
• Interiors have been updated with improved tech and more features
• Electric powertrain options remain unchanged

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric design

On the styling front, the most dramatic change is the removal of the grille panel, with the EV adopting a smooth front which marks a clear distinction from the regular Kona.

That car’s new narrow LED daytime-running lights and redesigned headlights are carried over, as are the wraparound body crease and aerodynamics-enhancing lower air inlets. The rear end has largely been left untouched, but subtly reshaped lights help to distinguish it from the old car.

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric interior

The Kona Electric now has a 10.25-inch digital dial display as standard. A recent update also brought the option to upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, up from the standard 8.0-inch one. In addition, rear passengers now gain heated seats and a new USB port.

Upgrades to Hyundai’s Bluelink connectivity service bring, voice control, remote charging to benefit from off-peak energy rates and remote climate control to preheat the car if it’s plugged in.

New safety features for 2021 include blindspot assistance, rear cross-traffic assistance, safe exit warning and eCall, which automatically alerts the emergency services in the event of an accident.

2021 Hyundai Kona Electric powertrain

Mechanically, the Kona Electric will continue to feature a 39.2kWh battery and a 136hp motor for a 304km range or a 64kWh battery and a 204hp motor for a 483km range.

Hyundai Kona Electric in India

Hyundai has not confirmed whether or not the Kona Electric facelift will come to our market. Although, the carmaker did launch the Kona Electric in India last year, with its prices currently starting from Rs 23.76 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi) for the base variant. The version available in India is the 39kWh lithium-ion battery pack one which powers a 136hp electric motor. The ARAI-certified range for this setup is 452km. You can read our Hyundai Kona road test to see how the EV performs on Indian roads.