The 2026 Hyundai Kona takes everyday driving to a whole new level with practical updates, a smart lineup shuffle, and thoughtful new features built for modern lifestyles. Let’s break down what’s changed, who this crossover will appeal to, and what you’ll really get from the all-new lineup.
Why Did Hyundai Remove the Turbo AWD?
Hyundai decided to remove the Turbo AWD model for 2026. The main reason? Most buyers simply chose the 2.0L petrol or hybrid versions, leaving turbo AWD to account for just about 10% of sales through 2024 and 2025. By axing the turbo all-wheel drive, Hyundai could streamline production and focus resources on the trims and powertrains people actually want, reducing costs and making the line-up clearer for buyers.
Meet the Upgraded Kona Elite
The biggest addition for 2026 is the all-new Elite trim—bridging the gap between the base and the fully-loaded models. In reality, this means you get access to plenty of luxury touches without the price of the top-tier Premium.
Standout Features on the Elite Trim
18-inch alloy wheels for road presence and comfort
Heated front seats—great for chilly mornings
Leather-appointed interior for a premium feel
Power adjustable front seats (driver: 10-way with lumbar, passenger: 8-way)
Advanced solar control windscreen & front door glass
Electrochromic rearview mirror for glare reduction
Rain-sensing wipers so you never fuss with controls in bad weather
Privacy rear glass boosts both style and security
Silver painted skid plates hint at rugged capability
Paddle shifters (with 2.0 MPi engine) for a touch of sporty driving
Shift-by-Wire electronic gear selector (2.0 MPi only)
Open-type center console for flexible storage and comfort.
Other Key Updates Across the Lineup
Performance
2.0L 4-cylinder petrol engine: Up to 110kW and 180Nm
1.6L 4-cylinder hybrid: Up to 104kW system output and 265Nm
Front-wheel drive only for all models now—AWD dropped with the turbo.
Improved fuel efficiency: 2.0L rated at 6.6L/100km, hybrid at an impressive 3.9L/100km.
Technology
Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays on upper trims
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Bluelink® connected-car services and over-the-air updates
Hyundai Digital Key 2.0 (in select trims).
Safety
Hyundai SmartSense advanced safety suite:
Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert now standard
Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
Lane keeping assist and forward collision avoidance assist
Optional surround-view monitor, remote smart parking assist, and more on Premium.
Comfort and Interior
Larger cargo space: Up to 407L with seats up, or 1,241L folded
Dual-zone climate control and rear air vents standard
Power sunroof on Premium, heated & ventilated front seats for comfort in all seasons
Warranty
Five-year/unlimited km vehicle warranty
Eight-year/160,000km battery warranty on hybrid models.
Trim Comparison Table (Scheme Table)
| Trim | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Kona Elite | 18-inch alloys, leather interior, heated/power seats, rain-sensing wipers, electrochromic mirror, privacy glass, Shift-by-Wire, solar glass, open center console. |
| Kona Premium | Adds: LED dual projector headlights, wide sunroof, digital dash, BOSE™ audio, smart power tailgate, surround view, ventilated/heated seats, ambient lighting, remote smart parking. |
Is the 2026 Kona Worth It?
If you’re after a practical, stylish daily SUV with most luxury touches you’d expect in pricier models, the Elite trim will likely be the best fit for most people. You get the features you’ll use every day—comfort, smart tech, and a touch of luxury—without overpaying for extras. Want absolute top-tier features? The Premium trim has pushed even further with more in-car entertainment, a panoramic instrument display, and advanced driver aids.
People-First Real-World Highlights
Simple Choices: You don’t need to decipher a dozen packages—just focus on what you want between base, Elite, and Premium.
Smart Tech for All: Even base models get a big touchscreen and wireless device integration—no more tangled cords.
Low Running Costs: Hybrids offer up to 3.9L/100km and all trims use standard 91-octane fuel.
Designed for Comfort: Power seating, quiet interiors, and spacious storage make short errands or long drives easier.
Three Fast FAQs
Q1: Can I get all-wheel drive on the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
No, AWD and the turbo engine have been discontinued. All 2026 Kona variants are now front-wheel drive only.
Q2: What’s the standout feature of the new Elite trim?
You get several premium touches (heated leather seats, 18-inch wheels, solar glass, and more) without needing the top-spec Premium model.
Q3: Does the new Kona support remote updates and smartphone integration?
Yes, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto come standard, and new over-the-air software updates keep your car current.
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