Head to head
Hyundai Kona Electric vs Kia EV3
The Hyundai Kona Electric and the Kia EV3 are two of the most cross-shopped electric suv choices on the market. The Kona Electric (2024) starts at $38,995 with 183 mi of range and a 48.6 kWh pack; the EV3 (2025) starts at $42,995 with 202 mi and a 55 kWh pack.
The price gap of $4,000 is the single biggest practical difference between them. On range, Kia EV3 holds a 10% advantage. The comparison below is generated from Eldrivo's verified specification database and updates whenever the underlying figures change — price in USD, EPA-style range, battery capacity, DC charging peak, 0–60 mph acceleration and Euro NCAP safety scores, side by side.
Category by category
Who wins where
Kia EV3 travels 202 mi against 183 mi for Hyundai Kona Electric — roughly 10% further per charge.
Hyundai Kona Electric starts at $38,995, undercutting Kia EV3 at $42,995 by $4,000.
Kia EV3 reaches 60 mph in 7.5s versus 9.9s for Hyundai Kona Electric, helped by 204 hp.
Kia EV3 peaks at 100 kW on a DC fast charger against 75 kW for Hyundai Kona Electric, adding 10–80% in about 29 minutes.
Hyundai Kona Electric uses 165 Wh per mile compared with 169 Wh for Kia EV3, which translates directly into lower charging costs.
Technical data
Full specifications side by side
| Spec | Hyundai Kona Electric | Kia EV3 |
|---|---|---|
| Starting price | $38,995 | $42,995 |
| Range | 183 mi | 202 mi |
| Battery | 48.6 kWh | 55 kWh |
| 0-60 mph | 9.9s | 7.5s |
| Power | 135 hp | 204 hp |
| DC charging peak | 75 kW | 100 kW |
| 10–80% charge | 43 min | 29 min |
| Efficiency | 165 Wh/mi | 169 Wh/mi |
| Body type | SUV | SUV |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD |
| Seats | 5 | 5 |
| Towing | 300 lbs | 1,100 lbs |
| Euro NCAP | 4/5 stars | Not tested |
The short answer
Which one should you buy?
Choose the Hyundai Kona Electric if…
- you want the lower entry price
- you want the lowest running cost per mile
Choose the Kia EV3 if…
- long-distance range matters most
- you prioritise straight-line performance
- fast road-trip charging is a priority
- you need the higher tow rating
Common questions
Hyundai Kona Electric vs Kia EV3: FAQ
Keep comparing