The 2019 Hyundai Kona Electric is the kind of electric vehicle shoppers want: a tall-riding crossover that doesn’t attract too much attention.
Pros All-electric powertrain Impressive, 250-mile range Usable cargo space Standard 7.0-inch touchscreen Automatic emergency braking on all trims
Cons Limited availability Is it really a crossover? Just front-wheel drive Small-ish second row
The 2019 Hyundai Kona ranked #1 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Hyundai Kona has a score of 8.6 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 24 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Potent turbocharged engine option Agile handling Upmarket cabin Intuitive infotainment system
Cons Less cargo space than most rivals Some road bumps disrupt ride quality
All-new electric version of the Kona.Hyundai has given the Kona Electric plenty of range and satisfying performance, even improving over the standard Kona in some ways.
Pros Long driving range of 258 miles Quick acceleration and sharp handling make it fun to drive Comfortable and quiet cabin Plenty of standard tech features
Cons Tight rear legroom Availability limited to just a few states
The 2018 Kia Niro Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid breathe new life into the hybrid segment, with a practical wagon shape and excellent interior you’d never know was a hybrid.
Pros Utility vehicle styling Good noise suppression Handsome, intuitive interior 40-mpg-plus fuel economy Plug-in version priced well
Cons AWD unavailable Sluggish acceleration at speed No crash-test data yet Plug-in range now only average
The 2018 Kia Niro ranked #5 in Subcompact SUVs. Currently the Kia Niro has a score of 8.1 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 14 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Magnificent fuel economy Spacious, comfortable seats Generous cargo capacity Upscale cabin
Cons Less athletic than rivals Not available with AWD High base price
The most significant change for the 2018 Niro is the addition of lane keeping assist, replacing the previous lane departure warning system. It's included in the Advanced Technology package available on LX and EX trims, and it's standard on the top Touring trim.
PROS Impressive fuel economy from the base trim model One of the more affordable hybrids in the segment Batteries are hidden under the rear seat and don't affect cargo space
CONS Feature-laden Touring trim sacrifices fuel efficiency Less cargo space than most rivals Feels lazy when driving in the default Eco mode All-wheel drive isn't offered despite crossover styling
