Hyundai kona vs. nissan leaf e+: the ultimate electric suv duel

In the ever-evolving world of electric vehicles, two prominent names stand out: the Hyundai Kona and the Nissan LEAF e+. Both SUVs offer a compelling blend of performance, efficiency, and style, making them formidable contenders in the competitive EV market. This comprehensive comparison pits the Hyundai Kona against the Nissan LEAF e+, analyzing their key features, specifications, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.

Power and Performance

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric offers two powertrain options: a 134-horsepower motor with a 39.2-kWh battery and a 201-horsepower motor with a 64-kWh battery. The latter delivers a spirited performance, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds.

Nissan LEAF e+: The LEAF e+ boasts a more powerful 214-horsepower motor and a larger 62-kWh battery. This combination provides impressive acceleration and a top speed of 100 mph.

Range and Efficiency

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric with the 39.2-kWh battery has an EPA-estimated range of 258 miles, while the 64-kWh model offers up to 291 miles. Its energy consumption is rated at 120 MPGe combined.

Nissan LEAF e+: The LEAF e+ delivers a slightly shorter EPA-estimated range of 226 miles, but its energy consumption is more efficient at 111 MPGe combined.

Charging Time

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric can be charged using a Level 2 charger (240V) in about 9.5 hours for the 39.2-kWh battery and 10.5 hours for the 64-kWh battery. With a DC fast charger (150 kW), it can charge from 10% to 80% in about 47 minutes.

Interior and Features

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric’s interior is spacious and well-equipped, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and a variety of safety features.

Nissan LEAF e+: The LEAF e+ offers a more futuristic and upscale interior with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, a Bose Premium Audio system, and ProPILOT Assist semi-autonomous driving technology.

Safety

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric has earned a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

Nissan LEAF e+: The LEAF e+ also received a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. It features Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure intervention.

Price and Value

Hyundai Kona: The Kona Electric starts at $33,245 for the base SE trim with the 39.2-kWh battery. The Limited trim with the 64-kWh battery is priced from $40,745.

Nissan LEAF e+: The LEAF e+ has a higher starting price of $38,490, and only one trim level is available.

Verdict: Which Electric SUV is Right for You?

The Hyundai Kona and Nissan LEAF e+ are both excellent electric SUVs with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The Kona offers a longer range, more powertrain options, and a slightly lower price point. The LEAF e+, on the other hand, provides a more advanced interior, a more powerful motor, and a slightly more efficient energy consumption.

Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize range, affordability, and a diverse powertrain lineup, the Hyundai Kona is a great option. If you value a more upscale interior, advanced technology, and a more powerful motor, the Nissan LEAF e+ is worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which SUV has a faster acceleration time?

The Nissan LEAF e+ has a faster acceleration time of 6.4 seconds from 0-60 mph, compared to the Hyundai Kona Electric‘s 6.4 seconds.

2. Which SUV has a higher top speed?

The Nissan LEAF e+ has a higher top speed of 100 mph, while the Hyundai Kona Electric‘s top speed is limited to 104 mph.

3. Which SUV has a larger cargo capacity?

The Nissan LEAF e+ offers a larger cargo capacity of 23.3 cubic feet, compared to the Hyundai Kona Electric’s 19.2 cubic feet.