The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric 64 kWh (Ultimate Trim – „Full Extras“) is a standout vehicle in the compact electric SUV segment. Here is a detailed outline of its benefits, assuming „Full Extras“ refers to the top-tier Ultimate trim level.
Summary: The 2022 Kona Electric Ultimate is a tech-forward, efficient, and practical compact SUV that offers a premium feel, a great electric range, and a compelling package for both city commuting and longer journeys.
1. Powertrain & Performance
Long Electric Range: The 64 kWh battery is the key feature. It offers an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles (415 km). This eliminates „range anxiety“ for most drivers, making it perfect for daily commutes and even longer road trips.
Peppy and Instant Acceleration: Electric motors provide instant torque. The 201 hp front-wheel-drive powertrain delivers quick and smooth acceleration from a stop, making it zippy and confident in urban traffic and for highway merging.
Efficient Operation: Electricity is significantly cheaper than gasoline per mile. The Kona Electric is very efficient, often achieving around 3.8 – 4.2 mi/kWh, leading to very low running costs.
Regenerative Braking: Features multiple levels of regenerative braking (including a one-pedal driving mode activated via steering wheel paddles). This allows you to slow down and even come to a complete stop without using the brake pedal, which recaptures energy and extends range while reducing brake wear.
2. Charging Flexibility
DC Fast Charging Capability: Supports 100 kW DC fast charging. This means you can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in approximately 47 minutes, making long-distance travel feasible.
AC Home/Public Charging: Includes a standard 7.2 kW onboard charger for Level 2 charging. Using a home charger or public station, you can fully recharge overnight (in about 9 hours).
3. Technology & Infotainment („Full Extras“ Highlights)
10.25-inch Fully Digital Instrument Cluster: A modern, configurable screen that replaces traditional gauges, showing all vital driving and battery information clearly.
10.25-inch Touchscreen Navigation System: A large, high-resolution center display with:
Built-in Navigation with real-time traffic information.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless and wired).
Hyundai Blue Link® connected services (remote start, climate control, charging status, vehicle locator via smartphone app).
Head-Up Display (HUD): Projects key information (speed, navigation, safety alerts) onto the windshield, allowing the driver to keep their eyes on the road.
Premium Audio System: Typically a 8-speaker Harman Kardon® premium sound system, offering exceptional audio quality.
Smartphone Key: Allows you to use your compatible smartphone as a digital key to lock, unlock, and start the vehicle.
4. Safety & Driver Assistance (Hyundai SmartSense)
This is a major benefit of the Ultimate trim. It includes a comprehensive suite of standard advanced safety features:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Pedestrian/Cyclist Detection
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) & Lane Follow Assist (LFA) (essentially a hands-on steering assist for highway driving)
Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go
Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW)
Safe Exit Warning (SEW) to prevent opening doors into approaching traffic.
Highway Drive Assist (HDA): A semi-autonomous system that combines adaptive cruise control and lane centering to reduce driver fatigue on highways.
Surround-View Monitor (360-degree camera) for maneuvering in tight spaces.
5. Interior Comfort & Convenience
Ventilated Front Seats: A rare feature in this class. Heated seats are common, but cooled/ventilated seats are a premium luxury, especially welcome in hot climates.
Heated Steering Wheel: Adds comfort in cold weather.
Power Sunroof: Adds to the feeling of airiness and space inside the cabin.
High-Quality Materials: The Ultimate trim features higher-quality upholstery (often leather), soft-touch materials, and aesthetic details that elevate the interior beyond the base models.
Spacious and Practical Cabin: Offers comfortable seating for four adults (five in a pinch) and a versatile cargo area. The rear seats fold flat to expand storage capacity.
6. Exterior & Design
Distinctive Styling: The Kona has a unique, modern, and bold design that stands out from more conservative competitors.
LED Lighting: Full LED headlights, daytime running lights, and taillights are standard on the Ultimate trim, offering better visibility and a premium look.
Exclusive Wheels: Comes with larger, more stylish alloy wheels (typically 17-inch).
7. Warranty & Ownership
Excellent Warranty Coverage: Hyundai’s electric vehicle warranty is a major selling point:
Battery Warranty: 10 Years / 100,000 miles
Electric Vehicle System Warranty: 10 Years / 100,000 miles
5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty
Low Maintenance: As an EV, it requires no oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust system repairs. Maintenance is generally limited to tire rotations, cabin air filter changes, and brake fluid checks.
Potential Considerations (for balance):
Cargo Space: While practical for its class, it has less cargo room than some non-electric compact SUVs due to the sloping rear roofline.
Rear Seat Space: Adequate for adults on shorter trips, but may feel a bit tight for very tall passengers on long journeys compared to larger vehicles.
Conclusion: The 2022 Hyundai Kona Electric 64 kWh Ultimate („Full Extras“) is a complete package. It combines a best-in-class (at the time) electric range with a luxurious and tech-saturated interior, a comprehensive suite of safety features, and the peace of mind of a long warranty. It is an ideal choice for an EV buyer who wants premium amenities, advanced technology, and practical urban size without sacrificing range.