Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov & manufacturer data. Figures reflect base trim; actual specs vary by trim level.
About the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric
The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric is a ev that earns a Carivo score of 7.9/10 — rated Recommended. Its strongest dimension is Safety at 8.7/10, while Performance at 6.4/10 is where it trails the competition most noticeably. It's a solid all-rounder that delivers across most dimensions without obvious deal-breakers.
Reliability and safety are the two dimensions that matter most for long-term ownership costs. The reliability picture is solid rather than spectacular: 8.1/10, which puts it comfortably above the class median. On safety, it scores 8.7/10 in our assessment. Always confirm the official crash-test results for your exact trim at nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Performance at 6.4/10 is a genuine liability and a score that should factor heavily into any buying decision. The powertrain and chassis dynamics trail class rivals by a meaningful margin — don't overlook it. At 7.9/10 for technology, the infotainment and driver-assist package does its job without setting benchmarks — check which features cost extra on lower trims.
Priced from $30,530–$35,885, 120 MPG, seating 5, the Hyundai Kona Electric sits in the mid-market bracket of the ev segment. Its value score of 8.5/10 confirms that the price reflects the quality — you're getting a lot for your money here. At 5 years old, it's worth checking whether a newer generation or refresh has addressed any weaker dimensions — compare it to the current model year before buying.
Verdict: Nothing about the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric will scare a sensible buyer off. Keep an eye on performance if those matter to you; otherwise it does what a good ev should — quietly and competently.
Carivo scores are our own editorial assessment, informed by NHTSA safety and recall records, EPA fuel-economy figures, and manufacturer-published specifications. Scores are reviewed periodically and updated when new data becomes available. See our full methodology →
How It Ranks Among EVs
The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric ranks #52 of 268 evs in the Carivo database — better than 81% of the segment. Its 7.9/10 overall score is 0.3 points above the segment average of 7.6/10. Its $30,530 starting price undercuts the segment's median of $52,750 by about 42%.
Across the Kona Electric model years we've scored, the 2021 holds its position — we didn't find an older year that delivers similar scores for meaningfully less money.
Above-average reliability record with solid owner satisfaction data
Top-tier safety scores across crash tests and driver-assistance tech
Exceptional value for money — high-quality features at a competitive price point
Modern, intuitive tech suite with wireless connectivity and up-to-date ADAS
Exceptional fuel efficiency at 120 MPG — among the best in its class
✗ Where it falls short
Performance is a genuine liability — well below class rivals and worth factoring into any decision
Brand resale values vary — check current market data before committing
NHTSA Recalls — 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric (2 on record)
The following recall campaigns have been filed with NHTSA for this model and year. Recall repairs are performed free of charge by franchised dealers; check your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Service brakes, hydraulic / Power assist / Electric / Control module / Software 01/12/2020 · 20V748000
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Nexo Fuel Cell and 2019-2021 Kona Electric vehicles. The Integrated Electronic Brake (IEB) system may detect an abnormal sensor signal and as a result, may significantly reduce braking…
Electrical system / Propulsion system / Traction battery / Thermal management / Fluid/coolant 16/12/2022 · 22V941000
Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 2021 Kona EV vehicles. The Electric Power Control Unit (EPCU) may have been improperly sealed and may leak coolant internally.
Source: NHTSA recall database, fetched at page build time.
Common Questions — 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric
Is the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric reliable?
We rate the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric's reliability 8.1/10 — one of the stronger records in its class. It has 2 NHTSA recall campaigns on record for this model year (details in the recalls section above — repairs are free at dealers).
How many recalls does the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric have?
2 NHTSA recall campaigns matched this model and year as of our latest check. Verify your specific vehicle by VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Is the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric worth buying?
It scores 7.9/10 overall, ranking #52 of 268 evs in our database (better than 81% of the segment). A solid choice for most buyers — compare it against the segment leaders before deciding.
How much does the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric cost?
The 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $30,530 and ranges up to $35,885 across trims (MSRP when new). At 120 MPG, expect roughly $438/year in fuel at 15,000 miles/year.
Owner Essentials — Hyundai Kona Electric
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Similar EV to Consider
Other evs at a similar price point, ranked by Carivo score.
Representative photo — may show another model year
