Zeekr X 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 Zeekr X starts from $49,900 before on-road costs, while the Hyundai Kona Electric opens at $54,000. That makes the Zeekr X the more affordable entry point by $4,100.
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 $54,890 and $59,400 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 Zeekr X and Hyundai Kona Electric hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 91% for the Zeekr X and 80% for the Hyundai Kona Electric.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Zeekr X packs more ADAS features with 9 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the Hyundai Kona Electric.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Zeekr X and 7 in the Hyundai Kona Electric. The Zeekr X adds a 360-degree camera that the Hyundai Kona Electric misses.
Feature Showdown
The Zeekr X features a 14.6-inch touchscreen paired with a 8.8-inch digital dash, while the Hyundai Kona Electric gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Zeekr X stands out with panoramic roof, Yamaha audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Hyundai Kona Electric. The Hyundai Kona Electric counters with heated front seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Zeekr X gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Hyundai Kona Electric offers cloth.
Drivetrain
The Zeekr X uses a Electric producing 250kW and 373Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 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 Zeekr X has the clear power advantage at 250kW vs 99kW. In the real-world sprint, the Zeekr X is 1.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 61kWh (Zeekr X) vs 48.4kWh (Hyundai Kona Electric), giving WLTP ranges of 540km and 395km. DC fast charging peaks at 230kW (Zeekr X) vs 75kW (Hyundai Kona Electric).
Space & Comfort
The Zeekr X measures 4,432mm long on a 2,750mm wheelbase, 82mm longer than the Hyundai Kona Electric at 4,350mm (2,660mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Zeekr X generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 239L in the Zeekr X and 361L in the Hyundai Kona Electric, giving the Hyundai Kona Electric a 122L advantage.
For towing, the Zeekr X 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 to 10.6m
Based on 10.6m 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 / 200,000km (Zeekr X) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Kona Electric). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Zeekr X if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Zeekr's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You need more boot space, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Zeekr X takes 8 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Zeekr X and Hyundai Kona Electric?
The Zeekr X is the cheapest at $49,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Hyundai Kona Electric by $4,100.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Zeekr X has the most range at 405km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Zeekr X accepts the highest DC charging at up to 230kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Zeekr X and Hyundai Kona Electric all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Hyundai Kona Electric has the largest boot at 361L.
Which can tow the most?
The Zeekr X has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Zeekr X makes the most power at 250kW. The Zeekr X is quickest to 100km/h in 8.5s.
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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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