The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL represents the next step in Hyundai’s push toward an all-electric future. As electric vehicles become more mainstream, the Kona Electric SEL stands out for its affordability, practicality, and cutting-edge features. Combining a fresh design, impressive range, and a tech-savvy interior, this new iteration of the Kona Electric is poised to win over eco-conscious drivers seeking a stylish and capable compact SUV.
This review examines every aspect of the 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL, from its design and performance to its tech features and how it compares to competitors.
Redesigned for 2025: A Bold and Modern Look
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is completely redesigned, giving it a more futuristic and upscale appearance.
- Exterior Styling: The Kona Electric now features a sleeker, more aerodynamic silhouette with sculpted lines and a closed-off grille that underscores its EV identity. LED headlights and taillights with a unique light signature provide a striking presence on the road.
- Wheel Options: The SEL trim includes stylish 17-inch alloy wheels that optimize aerodynamics.
- Color Options: Bold colors like Gravity Gold and Abyss Black Pearl join the lineup, allowing drivers to personalize their Kona Electric.
Interior: Spacious and Packed with Tech
The 2025 Kona Electric SEL interior has been reimagined to offer more space, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
- Expanded Cabin Space: Thanks to its longer wheelbase, the 2025 Kona Electric provides additional legroom for rear passengers and a more spacious cargo area.
- Premium Materials: The SEL trim includes cloth upholstery with a modern texture, soft-touch surfaces, and eco-friendly materials.
- Digital Displays: A dual-display setup features a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering seamless integration of essential functions.
- Connectivity: Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make connecting your smartphone effortless. Bluetooth and USB-C ports further enhance connectivity.
Performance and Range
The 2025 Kona Electric SEL balances efficiency and performance, making it a practical choice for urban commutes and weekend adventures.
- Electric Motor: Powered by a single electric motor, the Kona Electric SEL delivers 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque, providing quick acceleration and smooth performance.
- Battery and Range: Equipped with a 64.8 kWh battery pack, the SEL trim offers an EPA-estimated range of up to 260 miles on a single charge, making it competitive.
- Regenerative Braking: Adjustable regenerative braking levels allow drivers to customize the driving experience and maximize energy recovery.
- Drive Modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport modes adjust throttle response and efficiency to suit your preferences.
Charging Made Simple
Charging the 2025 Kona Electric SEL is convenient at home or on the road.
- Fast Charging: The Kona Electric supports DC fast charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 43 minutes at a 100 kW charging station.
- Home Charging: Level 2 charging at home takes about 9 hours to fully charge the battery, perfect for overnight charging.
- Hyundai Charging Network: Through partnerships, Hyundai offers access to thousands of public charging stations across the U.S., simplifying long-distance travel.
Advanced Technology and Safety Features
The Kona Electric SEL is packed with advanced technology to enhance convenience, safety, and driving experience.
- Hyundai SmartSense: A comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features includes:
- Forward collision avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Infotainment Features: Voice recognition and built-in navigation ensure stress-free trips. At the same time, Hyundai’s BlueLink app offers remote access to vehicle functions like pre-conditioning the cabin or checking battery status.
- Head-Up Display (Optional): The available head-up display projects key information onto the windshield, keeping the driver’s focus on the road.
Comfort and Versatility
The Kona Electric SEL is designed to make everyday life easier and more comfortable.
- Heated Seats: Standard heated front seats ensure comfort during colder months.
- Dual-Zone Climate Control: The SEL trim includes dual-zone automatic climate control, allowing passengers to set their preferred temperature.
- Cargo Space: The Kona Electric offers 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which expands to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat.
Competitors: How the Kona Electric SEL Stands Out
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL faces competition from other compact electric SUVs but has an excellent mix of features and value.
- Chevrolet Bolt EUV: While slightly more affordable, the Bolt EUV offers a shorter range and less advanced features.
- Nissan Ariya Engage: The Ariya boasts a premium interior but is priced higher and offers fewer standard safety features.
- Volkswagen ID.4: The ID.4 matches the Kona in range but falls short in terms of interior space and standard technology.
Pricing and Value
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is competitively priced, offering excellent value for its features and capabilities.
- Starting Price: The SEL trim starts at approximately $37,000 before federal tax credits and state incentives, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious EV buyers.
- Incentives: Buyers may qualify for federal tax credits of up to $7,500 and additional state or local incentives, further lowering the cost of ownership.
- Warranty: Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty includes a 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, ensuring peace of mind.
Final Thoughts: The Future Is Bright for the Kona Electric SEL
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Electric SEL is a testament to how far electric vehicles have come. With its striking design, impressive range, advanced safety features, and affordable pricing, the Kona Electric SEL is a compelling option for drivers transitioning to EVs or upgrading their current rides. Hyundai’s commitment to innovation and sustainability shines through in this well-rounded electric SUV.
As the EV market grows, the 2025 Kona Electric SEL proves that you don’t have to compromise on style, comfort, or technology to embrace a greener future. For those seeking an eco-friendly vehicle that’s both practical and fun to drive, the Kona Electric SEL is a top contender.