2023 Hyundai Kona Electric: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric is the addition of a new SE base trim. This is otherwise a light update, with more standard comfort equipment but no major change to the electric powertrain or 258-mile EPA range.
About the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric
1st generation Kona Electric (2019-2023 U.S.), second year after the 2022 facelift, final year before the all-new 2024 redesign.
The Kona Electric is Hyundai’s small electric SUV for drivers who want real EV range in a city-friendly size. Its core appeal is simple: easy maneuverability, a higher seating position than a sedan, useful hatchback cargo flexibility, and strong efficiency without stepping up to a larger, pricier EV. Compared with many rivals, it leans on familiar controls, generous standard safety tech, and everyday comfort rather than flashy styling or maximum size.
The 2023 Kona Electric lineup runs from the straightforward SE to the better-equipped SEL and premium Limited. The SE has an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the SEL adds a 10.25-inch navigation touchscreen, a sunroof, wireless phone charging, and a battery warmer. The Limited stands out with leather-trimmed and ventilated front seats, premium audio, adaptive cruise control, and highway driving assistance.
What changed, by category
2023 Hyundai Kona Electric specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | Electric Motor | Electric Motor | Electric Motor |
| Transmission | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | Single-Speed Reduction Gear | Single-Speed Reduction Gear |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Electric | Electric | Electric |
| Horsepower | 201 hp | 201 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 291 lb-ft | 291 lb-ft | 291 lb-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 33.4 in | 33.4 in | 33.4 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Electric Range | 258 | 258 | 258 |
| MPGe Combined | 120 | 120 | 120 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||
| Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers | |||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||
| Rear View Camera | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| LED Headlights | |||
| LED Tail Lights | |||
| Power Moonroof | |||
| Rear Spoiler | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Satellite Radio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| Subwoofer | |||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Power Driver Seat | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
| Ventilated Front Seats | |||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric?
The biggest change is the addition of the SE as the new base trim. The SEL moves into the middle of the lineup, while the Limited remains the premium version.
Was the 2023 Hyundai Kona Electric fully redesigned?
No. The 2023 Kona Electric is a light update and the final model year of the first-generation U.S. version. The full redesign arrives for 2024.
Did the 2023 Kona Electric’s range or powertrain change from 2022?
No major powertrain or range change occurred for 2023. It keeps a single electric motor, front-wheel drive, and an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles.
What equipment became standard on the 2023 Kona Electric?
Heated front seats, an 8-way power driver’s seat, and a rear USB port became standard across the 2023 lineup. The SEL also made its formerly optional sunroof and power driver’s seat standard.
How do the 2023 Kona Electric SE, SEL, and Limited differ?
The SE covers the essentials, the SEL adds everyday convenience features, and the Limited adds the most upscale cabin and driver-assistance equipment. All three use the same basic front-wheel-drive electric setup and offer the same 258-mile EPA range.