With the world steering towards a more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) have taken centre stage in the automobile industry. An increasing number of drivers are considering the switch from traditional gasoline vehicles to these cleaner, more efficient alternatives.
Many new electric drivers are interested in two EVs specifically: the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric. Considering their respective retail prices, which are significantly competitive compared to the average EV, these two models present a compelling case for those considering entering the electric revolution.
The Volkswagen ID.4, VW's flagship electric SUV, is a testament to the German automaker's commitment to combining sustainability and style. The VW ID.4's roomy cargo space is a standout feature, making it a versatile choice for families and adventure-seekers alike.
The ID.4 boasts an impressive range, a serene and upscale interior, and a driving experience that is both comfortable and thrilling. It's underpinned by VW's advanced electric powertrain technology, further solidifying its position as a leading contender in the EV market.
On the other side is the Hyundai Kona Electric or EV Kona, a compact SUV that perfectly blends practicality with performance. Hyundai's Electric Kona is celebrated for its superb efficiency.
Moreover, the Kona EV is priced attractively, making it an accessible option for many prospective EV buyers. It also delivers a comfortable ride, while its tech-rich cabin creates a modern and engaging driving environment.
The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric are true rivals in the electric SUV market. Each vehicle has unique strengths and offers a distinct driving experience, making the Volkswagen vs Hyundai debate a hot topic among EV enthusiasts.
In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two models. We'll explore their exterior and interior design, performance and range, infotainment and safety features, and much more to help you decide which of these two EVs best suits your lifestyle and preferences. Get ready to plug into the future of driving.
When it comes to the exterior design of the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric, both vehicles strike a delicate balance between practicality and aesthetics. However, they approach it from different angles.
The Volkswagen ID.4 carries the classic, understated elegance typical of Volkswagen's design language. Its sleek lines, wide stance and dynamic LED lighting give it a modern yet timeless appeal.
The ID. 4's design pays homage to its roots, deriving inspiration from Volkswagen's storied history while carving out its unique identity as an EV. The minimalist design isn't overly flamboyant but is attractive and designed to endure shifting design trends.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric presents a more futuristic and bold exterior design. Its unique front grille, which houses the charging port, gives the Kona a distinctive face. Its compact size, coupled with the sculpted body, makes the Kona Electric appear agile and sporty.
While both vehicles are well-designed and attractive in their own right, the choice would largely depend on personal preference: the subtle elegance of the ID.4 or the more audacious flair of the Kona Electric.
Stepping into the interior of these two vehicles, you'll find that both Volkswagen and Hyundai have focused heavily on creating a comfortable and tech-savvy environment for drivers and passengers.
Volkswagen ID. 4's interior space is one of its standout features. Thanks to the flat-floor design typical of many EVs, it's roomy, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. Moreover, the VW ID.4 cargo space is generous, making it a great choice for family outings or road trips. The minimalist dashboard design, coupled with high-quality materials, gives the ID. 4's interior a premium feel.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, though smaller in size, cleverly optimises its interior space. The seats are comfortable, and the dashboard layout is intuitive and driver-focused. One of the standout features of the Kona Electric is its infotainment system. It's easy to use, responsive and offers many features that make every drive enjoyable.
In terms of interior superiority, both vehicles shine in different aspects. The Volkswagen ID.4 offers more space and a premium feel, whereas the Hyundai Kona Electric impresses with its tech-forward approach and clever use of space. Again, choosing between the two will hinge on your needs and preferences.
Practicality is a key factor in the decision-making process when purchasing a new vehicle, and both the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric deliver in this aspect, albeit in slightly different ways.
The Volkswagen ID.4, being a midsize SUV, undoubtedly offers a roomier interior. Both headroom and legroom are ample, allowing for a comfortable ride even for taller passengers. The ID.4 is a five-seater with a sliding rear bench that offers flexibility between passenger and cargo space. VW ID.4 cargo space is significant, providing more room for luggage than the Kona Electric.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, despite its compact exterior, offers a surprisingly spacious interior. While it might not match the ID.4 for outright space, it's more than sufficient for daily commuting and short trips. It's also a five-seater but with a fixed rear bench. The Kona Electric's luggage space is adequate for a compact SUV, though less than the ID.4.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is focused on providing a smooth, comfortable ride. With its single-motor setup, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 glides effortlessly on the road, delivering a serene driving experience. It's not the quickest off the line, taking around 8.5 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, but it offers sufficient power for most driving situations. The ID. 4's top speed is electronically limited to 99 mph.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, offers a slightly sportier ride. Its electric motor delivers instant torque, allowing the Kona Electric to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.6 seconds. It's nimble around corners and has a top speed of 104 mph. The Kona Electric is a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Regarding driving fun, the Kona Electric's quicker acceleration and sporty handling might give it an edge for some drivers. However, the ID. 4's focus on comfort and smoothness and its roomier interior make it a compelling choice for those prioritising a relaxed and comfortable driving experience.
The range of an electric car is often one of the most important considerations for potential buyers. The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric offer impressive ranges despite some differences.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is equipped with an 82 kWh battery, of which 77 kWh is usable. On a full charge, the ID.4 can deliver a range of approximately 250 miles, depending on driving conditions and style. This range is sufficient for most daily commutes and even longer trips.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, comes with a slightly smaller 64 kWh battery, but thanks to its efficiency, it can deliver an impressive range of around 258 miles on a single charge. This makes the Kona Electric a compelling choice for those seeking maximum range efficiency.
Charging an electric vehicle is a crucial aspect of the EV ownership experience. The Volkswagen ID.4 supports a maximum AC charging speed of 11 kW, which requires a three-phase connection, commonly found at public charging stations or some home installations.
When charging at 11 kW, the ID. 4's 82 kWh battery can be replenished from 10% to 100% in approximately 7 hours. However, the ID.4 truly shines when it comes to DC fast charging. With a peak charging rate of 125 kW, the ID.4 can charge from 10% to 80% in just about 38 minutes, significantly reducing charging times.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric supports a maximum AC charging speed of 7.2 kW. When connected to an AC charger of this power, the Kona Electric's 64 kWh battery can be charged from 10% to 100% in about 9 hours. As for DC fast charging, the Kona Electric supports a maximum charging rate of 50 kW. At this speed, the Kona Electric can charge from 10% to 80% in around 75 minutes, which is relatively quick but slower than the ID.4's DC fast-charging capability.
To summarise, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers a higher maximum charging speed in AC (11 kW) and DC (125 kW) options, making it more adaptable and enabling quicker charging times.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, while offering slower maximum charging speeds in comparison (7.2 kW AC and 50 kW DC), still provides a practical solution for daily commutes and occasional long trips.
Below is a table estimating the charging times of the two cars at various charging speeds. Please note that these times are estimates, and actual times may vary depending on factors such as the state of the battery, the temperature and the power output of the charging station.
When it comes to pricing, the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric offer compelling propositions in their respective segments of the electric vehicle market.
The Volkswagen ID.4 in the UK market is available in several trims, with the starting price for the base model, the ID.4 Life, being around £38,105, with prices increasing for the other models.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric starts at a more affordable price point, around £32,450.
Regarding value for money, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a competitive price point considering its range and features. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers more interior space, a more comfortable ride and rapid charging capabilities, which could justify the higher price for some buyers.
The UK electric vehicle market offers many options for potential buyers. Several alternatives are worth considering in the same price bracket as the VW ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Starting at around £28,940, the Nissan Leaf is an affordable option with a decent range, making it a great choice for city driving. The Kia Soul EV, starting at around £32,095, offers an excellent range and a unique design, making it a standout choice for those looking for something different.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3, starting at around £42,990, offers a superior range, performance and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table. Depending on individual requirements and preferences, they may offer better value than either the ID.4 or Kona Electric. It is always recommended to test drive these vehicles and evaluate them based on personal criteria before making a final decision.
After comparing the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric in various aspects, including performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes apparent that each has its strengths.
The Volkswagen ID.4 stands out with its spacious interior, comfortable ride, impressive practicality and swift charging capabilities. Its exterior design is appealingly modern, and its price point makes it a good value proposition, considering its robust features and performance.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, impresses with its efficiency, delivering a longer range despite its smaller battery. It offers a slightly sportier ride and a responsive infotainment system. Its compact size can be an advantage in urban environments, and its price point is competitive, making it a strong contender in the EV market.
Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value space, comfort and quick charging, the Volkswagen ID.4 might be better. If efficiency, sporty driving dynamics and compact size are your priorities, the Hyundai Kona Electric could be more appealing.
As electric vehicles grow increasingly popular, finding convenient and fast charging solutions becomes a crucial part of the EV ownership experience. Public charging stations can provide charging speeds up to a staggering 350 kW, capable of replenishing your battery in mere minutes.
However, navigating the landscape of public charging networks can be challenging because each network offers charging at varying speeds, for different connector types and at different prices.
Enter Bonnet, an app designed to simplify and enhance your EV charging experience. With Bonnet, you can easily locate nearby charging stations, check their availability and gain insights into the specifics of the charging experience, such as charging availability and which speeds are available at each station.
One of the standout features of Bonnet is it allows drivers to access 17+ charging networks all through one app, eliminating the need for juggling multiple network-specific apps. This unified approach simplifies charging and saves you time and effort.
In addition to its convenience, Bonnet also offers Bonnet Boosts, allowing users to enjoy savings of up to 15% off charging within partner networks.
With the world steering towards a more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) have taken centre stage in the automobile industry. An increasing number of drivers are considering the switch from traditional gasoline vehicles to these cleaner, more efficient alternatives.
Many new electric drivers are interested in two EVs specifically: the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric. Considering their respective retail prices, which are significantly competitive compared to the average EV, these two models present a compelling case for those considering entering the electric revolution.
The Volkswagen ID.4, VW's flagship electric SUV, is a testament to the German automaker's commitment to combining sustainability and style. The VW ID.4's roomy cargo space is a standout feature, making it a versatile choice for families and adventure-seekers alike.
The ID.4 boasts an impressive range, a serene and upscale interior, and a driving experience that is both comfortable and thrilling. It's underpinned by VW's advanced electric powertrain technology, further solidifying its position as a leading contender in the EV market.
On the other side is the Hyundai Kona Electric or EV Kona, a compact SUV that perfectly blends practicality with performance. Hyundai's Electric Kona is celebrated for its superb efficiency.
Moreover, the Kona EV is priced attractively, making it an accessible option for many prospective EV buyers. It also delivers a comfortable ride, while its tech-rich cabin creates a modern and engaging driving environment.
The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric are true rivals in the electric SUV market. Each vehicle has unique strengths and offers a distinct driving experience, making the Volkswagen vs Hyundai debate a hot topic among EV enthusiasts.
In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two models. We'll explore their exterior and interior design, performance and range, infotainment and safety features, and much more to help you decide which of these two EVs best suits your lifestyle and preferences. Get ready to plug into the future of driving.
When it comes to the exterior design of the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric, both vehicles strike a delicate balance between practicality and aesthetics. However, they approach it from different angles.
The Volkswagen ID.4 carries the classic, understated elegance typical of Volkswagen's design language. Its sleek lines, wide stance and dynamic LED lighting give it a modern yet timeless appeal.
The ID. 4's design pays homage to its roots, deriving inspiration from Volkswagen's storied history while carving out its unique identity as an EV. The minimalist design isn't overly flamboyant but is attractive and designed to endure shifting design trends.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric presents a more futuristic and bold exterior design. Its unique front grille, which houses the charging port, gives the Kona a distinctive face. Its compact size, coupled with the sculpted body, makes the Kona Electric appear agile and sporty.
While both vehicles are well-designed and attractive in their own right, the choice would largely depend on personal preference: the subtle elegance of the ID.4 or the more audacious flair of the Kona Electric.
Stepping into the interior of these two vehicles, you'll find that both Volkswagen and Hyundai have focused heavily on creating a comfortable and tech-savvy environment for drivers and passengers.
Volkswagen ID. 4's interior space is one of its standout features. Thanks to the flat-floor design typical of many EVs, it's roomy, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. Moreover, the VW ID.4 cargo space is generous, making it a great choice for family outings or road trips. The minimalist dashboard design, coupled with high-quality materials, gives the ID. 4's interior a premium feel.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, though smaller in size, cleverly optimises its interior space. The seats are comfortable, and the dashboard layout is intuitive and driver-focused. One of the standout features of the Kona Electric is its infotainment system. It's easy to use, responsive and offers many features that make every drive enjoyable.
In terms of interior superiority, both vehicles shine in different aspects. The Volkswagen ID.4 offers more space and a premium feel, whereas the Hyundai Kona Electric impresses with its tech-forward approach and clever use of space. Again, choosing between the two will hinge on your needs and preferences.
Practicality is a key factor in the decision-making process when purchasing a new vehicle, and both the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric deliver in this aspect, albeit in slightly different ways.
The Volkswagen ID.4, being a midsize SUV, undoubtedly offers a roomier interior. Both headroom and legroom are ample, allowing for a comfortable ride even for taller passengers. The ID.4 is a five-seater with a sliding rear bench that offers flexibility between passenger and cargo space. VW ID.4 cargo space is significant, providing more room for luggage than the Kona Electric.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, despite its compact exterior, offers a surprisingly spacious interior. While it might not match the ID.4 for outright space, it's more than sufficient for daily commuting and short trips. It's also a five-seater but with a fixed rear bench. The Kona Electric's luggage space is adequate for a compact SUV, though less than the ID.4.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is focused on providing a smooth, comfortable ride. With its single-motor setup, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 glides effortlessly on the road, delivering a serene driving experience. It's not the quickest off the line, taking around 8.5 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, but it offers sufficient power for most driving situations. The ID. 4's top speed is electronically limited to 99 mph.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, offers a slightly sportier ride. Its electric motor delivers instant torque, allowing the Kona Electric to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.6 seconds. It's nimble around corners and has a top speed of 104 mph. The Kona Electric is a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Regarding driving fun, the Kona Electric's quicker acceleration and sporty handling might give it an edge for some drivers. However, the ID. 4's focus on comfort and smoothness and its roomier interior make it a compelling choice for those prioritising a relaxed and comfortable driving experience.
The range of an electric car is often one of the most important considerations for potential buyers. The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric offer impressive ranges despite some differences.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is equipped with an 82 kWh battery, of which 77 kWh is usable. On a full charge, the ID.4 can deliver a range of approximately 250 miles, depending on driving conditions and style. This range is sufficient for most daily commutes and even longer trips.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, comes with a slightly smaller 64 kWh battery, but thanks to its efficiency, it can deliver an impressive range of around 258 miles on a single charge. This makes the Kona Electric a compelling choice for those seeking maximum range efficiency.
Charging an electric vehicle is a crucial aspect of the EV ownership experience. The Volkswagen ID.4 supports a maximum AC charging speed of 11 kW, which requires a three-phase connection, commonly found at public charging stations or some home installations.
When charging at 11 kW, the ID. 4's 82 kWh battery can be replenished from 10% to 100% in approximately 7 hours. However, the ID.4 truly shines when it comes to DC fast charging. With a peak charging rate of 125 kW, the ID.4 can charge from 10% to 80% in just about 38 minutes, significantly reducing charging times.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric supports a maximum AC charging speed of 7.2 kW. When connected to an AC charger of this power, the Kona Electric's 64 kWh battery can be charged from 10% to 100% in about 9 hours. As for DC fast charging, the Kona Electric supports a maximum charging rate of 50 kW. At this speed, the Kona Electric can charge from 10% to 80% in around 75 minutes, which is relatively quick but slower than the ID.4's DC fast-charging capability.
To summarise, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers a higher maximum charging speed in AC (11 kW) and DC (125 kW) options, making it more adaptable and enabling quicker charging times.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, while offering slower maximum charging speeds in comparison (7.2 kW AC and 50 kW DC), still provides a practical solution for daily commutes and occasional long trips.
Below is a table estimating the charging times of the two cars at various charging speeds. Please note that these times are estimates, and actual times may vary depending on factors such as the state of the battery, the temperature and the power output of the charging station.
When it comes to pricing, the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric offer compelling propositions in their respective segments of the electric vehicle market.
The Volkswagen ID.4 in the UK market is available in several trims, with the starting price for the base model, the ID.4 Life, being around £38,105, with prices increasing for the other models.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric starts at a more affordable price point, around £32,450.
Regarding value for money, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a competitive price point considering its range and features. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers more interior space, a more comfortable ride and rapid charging capabilities, which could justify the higher price for some buyers.
The UK electric vehicle market offers many options for potential buyers. Several alternatives are worth considering in the same price bracket as the VW ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Starting at around £28,940, the Nissan Leaf is an affordable option with a decent range, making it a great choice for city driving. The Kia Soul EV, starting at around £32,095, offers an excellent range and a unique design, making it a standout choice for those looking for something different.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3, starting at around £42,990, offers a superior range, performance and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table. Depending on individual requirements and preferences, they may offer better value than either the ID.4 or Kona Electric. It is always recommended to test drive these vehicles and evaluate them based on personal criteria before making a final decision.
After comparing the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric in various aspects, including performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes apparent that each has its strengths.
The Volkswagen ID.4 stands out with its spacious interior, comfortable ride, impressive practicality and swift charging capabilities. Its exterior design is appealingly modern, and its price point makes it a good value proposition, considering its robust features and performance.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, impresses with its efficiency, delivering a longer range despite its smaller battery. It offers a slightly sportier ride and a responsive infotainment system. Its compact size can be an advantage in urban environments, and its price point is competitive, making it a strong contender in the EV market.
Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value space, comfort and quick charging, the Volkswagen ID.4 might be better. If efficiency, sporty driving dynamics and compact size are your priorities, the Hyundai Kona Electric could be more appealing.
As electric vehicles grow increasingly popular, finding convenient and fast charging solutions becomes a crucial part of the EV ownership experience. Public charging stations can provide charging speeds up to a staggering 350 kW, capable of replenishing your battery in mere minutes.
However, navigating the landscape of public charging networks can be challenging because each network offers charging at varying speeds, for different connector types and at different prices.
Enter Bonnet, an app designed to simplify and enhance your EV charging experience. With Bonnet, you can easily locate nearby charging stations, check their availability and gain insights into the specifics of the charging experience, such as charging availability and which speeds are available at each station.
One of the standout features of Bonnet is it allows drivers to access 17+ charging networks all through one app, eliminating the need for juggling multiple network-specific apps. This unified approach simplifies charging and saves you time and effort.
In addition to its convenience, Bonnet also offers Bonnet Boosts, allowing users to enjoy savings of up to 15% off charging within partner networks.
With the world steering towards a more sustainable future, electric vehicles (EVs) have taken centre stage in the automobile industry. An increasing number of drivers are considering the switch from traditional gasoline vehicles to these cleaner, more efficient alternatives.
Many new electric drivers are interested in two EVs specifically: the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric. Considering their respective retail prices, which are significantly competitive compared to the average EV, these two models present a compelling case for those considering entering the electric revolution.
The Volkswagen ID.4, VW's flagship electric SUV, is a testament to the German automaker's commitment to combining sustainability and style. The VW ID.4's roomy cargo space is a standout feature, making it a versatile choice for families and adventure-seekers alike.
The ID.4 boasts an impressive range, a serene and upscale interior, and a driving experience that is both comfortable and thrilling. It's underpinned by VW's advanced electric powertrain technology, further solidifying its position as a leading contender in the EV market.
On the other side is the Hyundai Kona Electric or EV Kona, a compact SUV that perfectly blends practicality with performance. Hyundai's Electric Kona is celebrated for its superb efficiency.
Moreover, the Kona EV is priced attractively, making it an accessible option for many prospective EV buyers. It also delivers a comfortable ride, while its tech-rich cabin creates a modern and engaging driving environment.
The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric are true rivals in the electric SUV market. Each vehicle has unique strengths and offers a distinct driving experience, making the Volkswagen vs Hyundai debate a hot topic among EV enthusiasts.
In the forthcoming sections of this article, we will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two models. We'll explore their exterior and interior design, performance and range, infotainment and safety features, and much more to help you decide which of these two EVs best suits your lifestyle and preferences. Get ready to plug into the future of driving.
When it comes to the exterior design of the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric, both vehicles strike a delicate balance between practicality and aesthetics. However, they approach it from different angles.
The Volkswagen ID.4 carries the classic, understated elegance typical of Volkswagen's design language. Its sleek lines, wide stance and dynamic LED lighting give it a modern yet timeless appeal.
The ID. 4's design pays homage to its roots, deriving inspiration from Volkswagen's storied history while carving out its unique identity as an EV. The minimalist design isn't overly flamboyant but is attractive and designed to endure shifting design trends.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric presents a more futuristic and bold exterior design. Its unique front grille, which houses the charging port, gives the Kona a distinctive face. Its compact size, coupled with the sculpted body, makes the Kona Electric appear agile and sporty.
While both vehicles are well-designed and attractive in their own right, the choice would largely depend on personal preference: the subtle elegance of the ID.4 or the more audacious flair of the Kona Electric.
Stepping into the interior of these two vehicles, you'll find that both Volkswagen and Hyundai have focused heavily on creating a comfortable and tech-savvy environment for drivers and passengers.
Volkswagen ID. 4's interior space is one of its standout features. Thanks to the flat-floor design typical of many EVs, it's roomy, with ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. Moreover, the VW ID.4 cargo space is generous, making it a great choice for family outings or road trips. The minimalist dashboard design, coupled with high-quality materials, gives the ID. 4's interior a premium feel.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, though smaller in size, cleverly optimises its interior space. The seats are comfortable, and the dashboard layout is intuitive and driver-focused. One of the standout features of the Kona Electric is its infotainment system. It's easy to use, responsive and offers many features that make every drive enjoyable.
In terms of interior superiority, both vehicles shine in different aspects. The Volkswagen ID.4 offers more space and a premium feel, whereas the Hyundai Kona Electric impresses with its tech-forward approach and clever use of space. Again, choosing between the two will hinge on your needs and preferences.
Practicality is a key factor in the decision-making process when purchasing a new vehicle, and both the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric deliver in this aspect, albeit in slightly different ways.
The Volkswagen ID.4, being a midsize SUV, undoubtedly offers a roomier interior. Both headroom and legroom are ample, allowing for a comfortable ride even for taller passengers. The ID.4 is a five-seater with a sliding rear bench that offers flexibility between passenger and cargo space. VW ID.4 cargo space is significant, providing more room for luggage than the Kona Electric.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, despite its compact exterior, offers a surprisingly spacious interior. While it might not match the ID.4 for outright space, it's more than sufficient for daily commuting and short trips. It's also a five-seater but with a fixed rear bench. The Kona Electric's luggage space is adequate for a compact SUV, though less than the ID.4.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is focused on providing a smooth, comfortable ride. With its single-motor setup, the rear-wheel-drive ID.4 glides effortlessly on the road, delivering a serene driving experience. It's not the quickest off the line, taking around 8.5 seconds to reach 60 mph from a standstill, but it offers sufficient power for most driving situations. The ID. 4's top speed is electronically limited to 99 mph.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, offers a slightly sportier ride. Its electric motor delivers instant torque, allowing the Kona Electric to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.6 seconds. It's nimble around corners and has a top speed of 104 mph. The Kona Electric is a front-wheel-drive vehicle.
Regarding driving fun, the Kona Electric's quicker acceleration and sporty handling might give it an edge for some drivers. However, the ID. 4's focus on comfort and smoothness and its roomier interior make it a compelling choice for those prioritising a relaxed and comfortable driving experience.
The range of an electric car is often one of the most important considerations for potential buyers. The Volkswagen ID.4 and the Hyundai Kona Electric offer impressive ranges despite some differences.
The Volkswagen ID.4 is equipped with an 82 kWh battery, of which 77 kWh is usable. On a full charge, the ID.4 can deliver a range of approximately 250 miles, depending on driving conditions and style. This range is sufficient for most daily commutes and even longer trips.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, comes with a slightly smaller 64 kWh battery, but thanks to its efficiency, it can deliver an impressive range of around 258 miles on a single charge. This makes the Kona Electric a compelling choice for those seeking maximum range efficiency.
Charging an electric vehicle is a crucial aspect of the EV ownership experience. The Volkswagen ID.4 supports a maximum AC charging speed of 11 kW, which requires a three-phase connection, commonly found at public charging stations or some home installations.
When charging at 11 kW, the ID. 4's 82 kWh battery can be replenished from 10% to 100% in approximately 7 hours. However, the ID.4 truly shines when it comes to DC fast charging. With a peak charging rate of 125 kW, the ID.4 can charge from 10% to 80% in just about 38 minutes, significantly reducing charging times.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric supports a maximum AC charging speed of 7.2 kW. When connected to an AC charger of this power, the Kona Electric's 64 kWh battery can be charged from 10% to 100% in about 9 hours. As for DC fast charging, the Kona Electric supports a maximum charging rate of 50 kW. At this speed, the Kona Electric can charge from 10% to 80% in around 75 minutes, which is relatively quick but slower than the ID.4's DC fast-charging capability.
To summarise, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers a higher maximum charging speed in AC (11 kW) and DC (125 kW) options, making it more adaptable and enabling quicker charging times.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, while offering slower maximum charging speeds in comparison (7.2 kW AC and 50 kW DC), still provides a practical solution for daily commutes and occasional long trips.
Below is a table estimating the charging times of the two cars at various charging speeds. Please note that these times are estimates, and actual times may vary depending on factors such as the state of the battery, the temperature and the power output of the charging station.
When it comes to pricing, the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric offer compelling propositions in their respective segments of the electric vehicle market.
The Volkswagen ID.4 in the UK market is available in several trims, with the starting price for the base model, the ID.4 Life, being around £38,105, with prices increasing for the other models.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Kona Electric starts at a more affordable price point, around £32,450.
Regarding value for money, the Hyundai Kona Electric offers a competitive price point considering its range and features. However, the Volkswagen ID.4 offers more interior space, a more comfortable ride and rapid charging capabilities, which could justify the higher price for some buyers.
The UK electric vehicle market offers many options for potential buyers. Several alternatives are worth considering in the same price bracket as the VW ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
Starting at around £28,940, the Nissan Leaf is an affordable option with a decent range, making it a great choice for city driving. The Kia Soul EV, starting at around £32,095, offers an excellent range and a unique design, making it a standout choice for those looking for something different.
For those willing to stretch their budget slightly, the Tesla Model 3, starting at around £42,990, offers a superior range, performance and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger network.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table. Depending on individual requirements and preferences, they may offer better value than either the ID.4 or Kona Electric. It is always recommended to test drive these vehicles and evaluate them based on personal criteria before making a final decision.
After comparing the Volkswagen ID.4 and Hyundai Kona Electric in various aspects, including performance, range, charging, price, exterior and interior design, and practicality, it becomes apparent that each has its strengths.
The Volkswagen ID.4 stands out with its spacious interior, comfortable ride, impressive practicality and swift charging capabilities. Its exterior design is appealingly modern, and its price point makes it a good value proposition, considering its robust features and performance.
The Hyundai Kona Electric, on the other hand, impresses with its efficiency, delivering a longer range despite its smaller battery. It offers a slightly sportier ride and a responsive infotainment system. Its compact size can be an advantage in urban environments, and its price point is competitive, making it a strong contender in the EV market.
Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value space, comfort and quick charging, the Volkswagen ID.4 might be better. If efficiency, sporty driving dynamics and compact size are your priorities, the Hyundai Kona Electric could be more appealing.
As electric vehicles grow increasingly popular, finding convenient and fast charging solutions becomes a crucial part of the EV ownership experience. Public charging stations can provide charging speeds up to a staggering 350 kW, capable of replenishing your battery in mere minutes.
However, navigating the landscape of public charging networks can be challenging because each network offers charging at varying speeds, for different connector types and at different prices.
Enter Bonnet, an app designed to simplify and enhance your EV charging experience. With Bonnet, you can easily locate nearby charging stations, check their availability and gain insights into the specifics of the charging experience, such as charging availability and which speeds are available at each station.
One of the standout features of Bonnet is it allows drivers to access 17+ charging networks all through one app, eliminating the need for juggling multiple network-specific apps. This unified approach simplifies charging and saves you time and effort.
In addition to its convenience, Bonnet also offers Bonnet Boosts, allowing users to enjoy savings of up to 15% off charging within partner networks.
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