Suzuki e Vitara vs Hyundai Kona Electric
Two electric SUVs 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.
Price Breakdown
The Suzuki e Vitara starts from $36,990 before on-road costs, while the Hyundai Kona Electric opens at $40,500. That makes the Suzuki e Vitara the more affordable entry point by $3,510.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $40,689 and $44,550 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
Both the Suzuki e Vitara and Hyundai Kona Electric hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 77% for the Suzuki e Vitara and 80% for the Hyundai Kona Electric.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Hyundai Kona Electric packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 0 in the Suzuki e Vitara.
Both include the essentials: a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Suzuki e Vitara stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Hyundai Kona Electric. The Hyundai Kona Electric counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging and heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Suzuki e Vitara uses a Electric Motor producing 128kW and 189Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9 seconds.
The Hyundai Kona Electric responds with a Electric making 99kW and 255Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.9 seconds.
The Suzuki e Vitara has the clear power advantage at 128kW vs 99kW. In the real-world sprint, the Suzuki e Vitara is 0.9s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 49kWh (Suzuki e Vitara) vs 48.4kWh (Hyundai Kona Electric), giving WLTP ranges of 344km and 395km. DC fast charging peaks at 129kW (Suzuki e Vitara) vs 75kW (Hyundai Kona Electric).
Space & Comfort
The Suzuki e Vitara measures 4,275mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 75mm shorter than the Hyundai Kona Electric at 4,350mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Suzuki e Vitara generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 306L in the Suzuki e Vitara and 361L in the Hyundai Kona Electric, giving the Hyundai Kona Electric a 55L advantage.
For towing, the Hyundai Kona Electric leads with a 1,300kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 550kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 10.6m
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
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.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Suzuki e Vitara) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Kona Electric). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Suzuki e Vitara if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Suzuki's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You need more boot space, need stronger towing, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Suzuki e Vitara takes 6 of 9 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the Hyundai Kona Electric has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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