Hyundai Kona vs Toyota bZ4X – Performance, range & efficiency compared

Face-Off: Hyundai Kona vs. Toyota bZ4X

The compact SUV market has seen an infusion of innovation with the introduction of the 2024 Hyundai Kona and the 2024/2025 Toyota bZ4X. Both vehicles promise a modern take on the driving experience, catering to both traditionalists and tech-savvy drivers. Let’s take a closer look at how these two contenders stack up against each other.

Engine and Performance

The Hyundai Kona offers a versatile engine lineup that includes petrol, full hybrid, and all-electric options, showcasing its commitment to flexibility. The petrol variant kicks off with a modest 100 HP and goes up to a more enthusiastic 170 HP. Electric options further raise the bar, providing up to 218 HP, which is complemented by a torque of 255 Nm. On the other hand, the Toyota bZ4X, focusing solely on electric powertrains, delivers robust performance with options at 204 HP and 218 HP, backed by torque figures ranging from 265 Nm to 336 Nm.

Acceleration is another area of interest. The Kona manages a sprint from 0-100km/h in as little as 7.8 seconds for its quickest variant, while the bZ4X achieves a slightly quicker time of 6.9 seconds. These figures show both vehicles to be adequately capable for urban settings and highway cruising.

Fuel Efficiency and Range

Efficiency plays a critical role, particularly for electric models. The Hyundai Kona’s electric variants offer consumption rates of 14.6 to 16.8 kWh/100km and boast a range between 377 km and 514 km, thanks to battery capacities of up to 65.4 kWh. Meanwhile, Toyota's bZ4X slightly edges out the Kona with consumption rates from 14.4 to 16.2 kWh/100km and an impressive range of up to 513 km on a full charge.

Dimensions and Capacity

While both vehicles offer a five-door layout with seating for five, their sizes differ slightly. The Hyundai Kona’s compact dimensions (length of 4350 mm to 4385 mm and width of 1825 mm) make it ideal for urban maneuverability. In contrast, the Toyota bZ4X, being larger with a length of 4690 mm and a width of 1860 mm, provides more interior space, which is particularly beneficial for family use and longer trips.

Trunk space is another differential; the Kona offers a trunk capacity of 466 liters, slightly more than the bZ4X's 452 liters, making it a better choice for carrying luggage or other bulky items.

Environmental Impact

Both vehicles excel in minimizing carbon footprint. The electric models of both the Hyundai Kona and the Toyota bZ4X carry a CO2 efficiency class of A, emitting 0 g/km CO2, which aligns with stringent new environmental standards. This focus on sustainability highlights the automakers' commitment to creating greener transportation solutions.

In Conclusion

Choosing between the Hyundai Kona and Toyota bZ4X largely depends on the buyer’s priorities. The Kona is ideal for those who value versatility and the option of hybrid technology, while the bZ4X is suited for those committed to all-electric driving with ample space and slightly swifter acceleration. These SUVs showcase the latest in automotive innovation, delivering compelling choices for the modern driver looking to the future.