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2024 Buick Envision vs Hyundai Kona Electric Detailed Comparison
In this comparison, we delve into the 2024 Buick Envision and Hyundai Kona Electric. While Buick aims to attract luxury buyers with its Envision, the Kona Electric enters its second generation with a more captivating and futuristic design. The Envision boasts curb appeal and features akin to European rivals, but falls short in terms of true luxury and handling. On the other hand, the Kona Electric embraces a cyborg-inspired crossover design, offering more space, a larger battery, and an estimated range of 260 miles. The Kona Electric comes exclusively with front-wheel drive and offers two battery packs with varying horsepower outputs. As we explore these vehicles further, we’ll uncover their unique attributes and capabilities.
2024 Buick Envision
Interior and Features
The Buick Envision’s interior exudes style and sophistication. The Avenir trim, in particular, competes strongly with luxury rivals, offering premium features like quilted leather upholstery and a massaging driver’s seat. While passenger space remains similar to the previous model, the current Envision sacrifices a bit of cargo room. However, the introduction of a new digital dashboard, potentially featuring a large OLED display, brings a modern touch to the cabin. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot enhance connectivity, while advanced driver-assistance features, including the optional Super Cruise system, prioritize safety on the road.
Engine and Performance
The Buick Envision offers a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 228 horsepower. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Envision offers standard front-wheel drive with the option to upgrade to all-wheel drive. While not as quick as its luxury competitors, the Envision provides satisfactory performance for most drivers, with a 7.3-second 0-60 mph time. The focus is primarily on ride comfort rather than sporty dynamics, and fuel efficiency ranges from 23 mpg city to 31 mpg highway, depending on the drivetrain configuration.
Pricing
The 2024 Buick Envision is expected to arrive next year, with pricing details to be revealed later. Considering the significant updates, a higher price tag can be anticipated, particularly for the top-level Avenir trim with optional Super Cruise. The current base price of $34,745 may see an increase. The 2023 Preferred trim offers a competitive starting price of $33,400, while the Essence trim adds more features for $37,500. The Avenir trim, priced at $45,660, brings additional luxury amenities.
Hyundai Kona Electric
Interior and Features
The interior of the new Kona Electric showcases significant improvements, with enhanced fit and finish. Ambient lighting adds a touch of personalization, while the two 12.3-inch displays handle vehicle information and infotainment, replacing the previous generation’s smaller touchscreen. The driver-oriented layout, featuring a floating module and Ioniq 6-inspired steering wheel, emphasizes a seamless and modern design. The gearshift has been relocated, and HVAC controls are conveniently placed on the center stack beneath the displays.
Performance and Range
The new Kona Electric offers two motor options: a 133-hp version and a more powerful 201-hp version. Both are front-wheel drive, and all-wheel drive is currently available only for the gasoline models. The new model surpasses the previous-generation Kona Electric in horsepower and is expected to outperform it in acceleration. The Kona Electric offers two battery packs, with the larger one providing a range of 260 miles. With fast DC charging, the battery can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in 41 minutes. Additionally, the Kona Electric has the capability to power and charge other electrical components, showcasing its versatility. In our highway driving test, the previous Kona Electric achieved a real-world range of 160 miles.
Pricing
The 2024 Hyundai Kona Electric is set to begin deliveries with a projected price increase to around $36,000. This would maintain its reputation as an affordable electric SUV. The actual pricing details for the 2024 model are yet to be announced, but with the entry-level model featuring a less powerful powertrain compared to the 2023 Kona, a lower base price of around $30,000 is expected. Higher trim levels are likely to exceed $40,000.
| 2024 Buick Envision | Hyundai Kona Electric |
| Powerplant | 2.0-liter four-cylinder | 64.8 kWh |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 201 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 188 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 7.3 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Range | – | 260 miles |
Conclusion
The 2024 Buick Envision and Hyundai Kona Electric offer distinct choices in the compact SUV and electric vehicle segments, respectively. The Envision presents a stylish and comfortable option, with the top-tier Avenir trim catering to luxury enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Kona Electric stands out as an affordable and eco-friendly choice, with the potential for a lower base price and improved powertrain. Both vehicles bring their own strengths and cater to different priorities, allowing consumers to find the best fit based on their preferences and needs.