Hyundai Kona Electric vs Skoda Karoq
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 Skoda Karoq opens at $40,990. That makes the Hyundai Kona Electric the more affordable entry point by $490.
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 $45,089 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 Skoda Karoq, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
Both the Hyundai Kona Electric and Skoda Karoq hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 80% for the Hyundai Kona Electric and 93% for the Skoda Karoq.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Skoda Karoq packs more ADAS features with 6 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 Hyundai Kona Electric and 6 in the Skoda Karoq.
Feature Showdown
The Hyundai Kona Electric features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the Skoda Karoq gets a 9.2-inch display. 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 Skoda Karoq. The Skoda Karoq 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 Skoda Karoq responds with a Petrol making 110kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The Skoda Karoq has the clear power advantage at 110kW vs 99kW. In the real-world sprint, the Skoda Karoq is 1.3s 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, 32mm shorter than the Skoda Karoq at 4,382mm (2,638mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai Kona Electric generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 361L in the Hyundai Kona Electric and 521L in the Skoda Karoq, giving the Skoda Karoq a 160L advantage.
For towing, the Skoda Karoq 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 11.0m
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m 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 / 999,999km (Skoda Karoq). The Skoda Karoq has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Kona Electric if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Skoda Karoq if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Skoda Karoq takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Skoda Karoq has a clear edge. The Skoda Karoq 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 Skoda Karoq?
The Hyundai Kona Electric is the cheapest at $40,500 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Skoda Karoq by $490.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Skoda Karoq uses the least fuel at 6.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai Kona Electric and Skoda Karoq all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Skoda Karoq has the largest boot at 521L.
Which can tow the most?
The Skoda Karoq has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The Skoda Karoq has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Skoda Karoq makes the most power at 110kW. The Skoda Karoq is quickest to 100km/h in 8.6s.
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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