Hyundai Kona Electric vs LDV D90
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
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 Hyundai Kona Electric starts from $40,500 before on-road costs, while the LDV D90 opens at $39,990. That makes the LDV D90 the more affordable entry point by $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 $44,550 and $43,989 respectively.
The Hyundai Kona Electric qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The LDV D90, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Hyundai Kona Electric and LDV D90 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
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 2 in the LDV D90.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Hyundai Kona Electric and 6 in the LDV D90.
Feature Showdown
The Hyundai Kona Electric features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the LDV D90 gets a 12.3-inch display and 12.3-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Hyundai Kona Electric stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats and V2L that you will not find on the LDV D90. The LDV D90 counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai Kona Electric uses a Electric producing 99kW and 255Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.9 seconds.
The LDV D90 responds with a Petrol Turbo making 184kW and 410Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.5 seconds.
The LDV D90 has the clear power advantage at 184kW vs 99kW. In the real-world sprint, the Hyundai Kona Electric is 0.6s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai Kona Electric measures 4,350mm long on a 2,660mm wheelbase, 696mm shorter than the LDV D90 at 5,046mm (2,950mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the LDV D90 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 361L in the Hyundai Kona Electric and 343L in the LDV D90, giving the Hyundai Kona Electric a 18L advantage. The LDV D90 seats 7 vs 5.
For towing, the LDV D90 leads with a 3,000kg braked capacity vs 1,300kg. That 1,700kg 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 12.0m
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m 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 (Hyundai Kona Electric) vs 7 years / 200,000km (LDV D90). The LDV D90 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You need more boot space, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the LDV D90 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer LDV's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The LDV D90 takes 4 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The LDV D90 adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai Kona Electric and LDV D90?
The LDV D90 is the cheapest at $39,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Hyundai Kona Electric by $510.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The LDV D90 uses the least fuel at 9.1L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai Kona Electric and LDV D90 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 LDV D90 has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,000kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The LDV D90 has the longest warranty at 7 years / 200k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The LDV D90 makes the most power at 184kW. The Hyundai Kona Electric is quickest to 100km/h in 9.9s.
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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