GWM Ora 5 vs Hyundai Kona Electric: A Detailed Comparison of Specs and Features

The electric vehicle (EV) market continues to heat up, with established players like the Hyundai Kona facing new threats from competitors like the GWM Ora 5. The Kona is Hyundai's best-selling model in Australia and its top-performing EV, but the arrival of the GWM Ora 5 in June has stepped up the competition. Let’s explore how these two stylish small SUVs stack up against one another in this specification battle.

Pricing Overview

Pricing is a critical factor for consumers, particularly when comparing two models as different as the Ora 5 and Kona Electric. The GWM Ora 5 starts from $33,990 drive-away for the base Lux model, while the top-tier Ultra costs $36,990 drive-away.

Model	Price before on-road costs	Drive-away pricing
GWM Ora 5 Ultra	-	$36,990
Hyundai Kona Electric Standard Range	$46,000	$47,990*

*Offer valid until December 31, 2026

Hyundai’s Kona Electric lineup begins at $46,000 before on-road costs for the Standard Range model, equipped with a 99kW powertrain. The Kona’s Extended Range version ups the power to 150kW, retailing for $50,000 plus on-road costs but currently offered at $51,990 drive-away. Other variants like the Elite, Premium, and Premium N Line range between $53,000 and $63,000 before on-road costs.

While both vehicles feature optional premium paint at an additional charge of $595, the Ora 5 has Pepper White as its only default color, whereas the Kona provides standard options of Atlas White and Mirage Green.

What Do You Get for Your Money?

In terms of standard equipment, the Ora 5 Ultra and Kona Electric Standard Range offer a variety of features aimed at enhancing the driving experience. The vehicles are closely matched in size, but the Ora 5 boasts a longer wheelbase and additional length, resulting in more cabin space.

The GWM Ora 5 measures 4471mm in length—120mm longer than the Kona Electric—along with an extra 60mm in wheelbase, wider stance of 1833mm, and a height of 1641mm, surpassing the Kona's height by 61mm.

Standard features on both models include:

• LED headlights with auto-high beam
• Keyless entry and start
• Digital instrument cluster
• Touchscreen infotainment display
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Wireless phone charger
• Over-the-air software updates
• Dual-zone climate control
• Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability

However, the Ora 5 Ultra adds features like 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, and enhanced interior materials. In contrast, the Kona Electric benefits from a larger 12.3-inch digital cluster and offers a comprehensive safety suite, though it lacks some luxury features found in the Ora 5.

Both models come equipped with surround-view monitors, but only the Ora 5 Ultra provides this as standard. Its nine-speaker sound system also surpasses the Kona's six speakers, making for a more luxurious audio experience.

Safety Ratings

Safety is paramount in the small SUV segment. The Hyundai Kona Electric has received a four-star ANCAP safety rating, valid until December 2031. Meanwhile, the GWM Ora 5 has yet to undergo safety assessment.

Category	GWM Ora 5 SUV	Hyundai Kona
Adult occupant protection	–	80%
Child occupant protection	–	84%
Vulnerable road user protection	–	64%
Safety assist	–	62%

Both vehicles feature similar safety technologies, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and driver monitoring.

Interior Space and Comfort

The Ora 5 arguably offers a more spacious interior, especially in the second row, while displaying unique design elements such as aircraft-style toggle switches. However, it falls short with a lack of a fold-down center armrest in the second row. The Kona Electric, on the other hand, features a more traditional dashboard layout and additional comfort features, such as a fold-down rear armrest.

Both models support 60:40 split-folding rear seats, although the Kona Electric provides more boot space—407 liters with the seats up and 1241 liters with them folded—compared to the Ora 5's 362 liters and 1060 liters, respectively. Additionally, the Kona features a 27-liter frunk, which adds to its practicality.

Performance and Efficiency

When it comes to performance, the GWM Ora 5 Ultra boasts superior power output with 150kW compared to the Hyundai Kona Electric's 99kW. The Ora 5 features a 58.3kWh LFP battery that offers a claimed range of 435 kilometers, while the Kona Electric offers a smaller 48.6kWh lithium-ion battery, resulting in a range of 370 kilometers.

Specifications	GWM Ora 5 Ultra	Hyundai Kona Electric
Battery	58.3kWh LFP	48.6kWh lithium-ion
Peak power	150kW	99kW
Claimed range	435km (WLTC)	370km (WLTP)
Max DC charge rate	120kW (10-80% in 30 min)	100kW (10-80% in 45 min)

Despite the Kona being lighter by up to 70 kilograms, the Ora 5 claims a 0-100 km/h time of 8 seconds, emphasizing its performance credentials. Both models feature CCS2 charging ports and capable vehicle-to-load functionality, with GWM leading with up to 6kW compared to the Kona's 3kW.

Running Costs and Warranty

Looking beyond the initial price tag, both vehicles offer different warranty and service options. GWM provides a seven-year unlimited-kilometer warranty, alongside capped-price servicing for the first five scheduled services. Hyundai counters with a five-year unlimited kilometer warranty, extendable to seven years with timely servicing.

Hyundai also offers a Lifetime Service Plan, which adds to the overall value for owners, particularly if they prefer to keep their vehicle long-term.

Final Verdict: GWM Ora 5 Ultra Takes the Lead

When comparing the GWM Ora 5 Ultra and the Hyundai Kona Electric, the tangible price difference of $11,000 plays a significant role in the overall value proposition. The Ora 5 Ultra excels in practicality, features, power, and range.

While the Kona Electric offers a recognized brand name, superior ADAS features, and a larger boot, the Ora 5's charm, unique styling, and substantial value contribute to its winning edge in this comparison.

Overall, the GWM Ora 5 Ultra emerges victorious in this spec battle, appealing to buyers drawn to a stylish compact SUV that delivers on power, range, and practicality.

MORE: Explore the GWM Ora 5 showroomMORE: Explore the Hyundai Kona showroom