BYD M9 vs Hyundai Kona Electric
Two electric cars go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
BYD M9
Price TBC
People Mover
Plug-in Hybrid
Electric Motor
—
—
ANCAP: no data
—
Hyundai Kona Electric
From $54,000
SUV
Electric
Electric
99kW
—
4★ ANCAP
407L
Plug-in hybrid fuel economy is shown as a hybrid (battery depleted) so it compares fairly with the other car. A PHEV's official "combined" figure assumes you start every trip fully charged, so real-world economy depends on how often you plug in. Electric range shows how far it goes before the petrol engine is needed.
Track the BYD M9 & Hyundai Kona Electric
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge — from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC — estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
64.8kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 100kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (11kW AC, 100kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Hyundai Kona Electric counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L that the BYD M9 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
Detailed powertrain specifications are not yet available for both models.
Space & Comfort
The BYD M9 measures 5,145mm long on a 3,045mm wheelbase, 795mm longer than the Hyundai Kona Electric at 4,350mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the BYD M9 generally means more rear legroom.
For towing, the BYD M9 leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,300kg. That 200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m diameter
Good
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD M9 if: You need stronger towing, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The BYD M9 and Hyundai Kona Electric trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BYD M9 and Hyundai Kona Electric?
The Hyundai Kona Electric is the cheapest at $54,000 before on-road costs.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai Kona Electric all hold a 4-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which can tow the most?
The BYD M9 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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