2026 Hyundai Kona
2026 Hyundai Kona
The 2026 Hyundai Kona brings an updated compact SUV experience to Cambridge drivers. With four trim levels, two engine options, and available all-wheel drive, the Kona addresses common needs for daily commuting, weekend trips, and seasonal weather conditions. From the entry-level Essential to the performance-oriented N Line with Ultimate Package, each configuration offers a different set of features and capabilities.
Your Guide to the 2026 Hyundai Kona
Exterior
The 2026 Kona's exterior design prioritizes visibility and aerodynamics. LED headlights and daytime running lights come standard across all trims, while 17-inch alloy wheels handle the Essential model. Preferred and higher trims receive 18-inch or 19-inch wheels depending on configuration. Active grille shutters help manage airflow, and heated side mirrors provide clear sightlines during cold Cambridge mornings. The rear spoiler houses an LED brake light, and a shark-fin antenna sits above the roofline.
Body-coloured side mirrors come standard, though the N Line features black side mirrors for a sportier appearance. Rear privacy glass appears on Preferred models and above, while roof side rails on Preferred trims add versatility for cargo carriers. The N Line introduces Seamless Horizon LED daytime running lights and body-colour cladding, differentiating it from other trims. Optional two-tone paint schemes with a black roof are available on select exterior colours across the lineup.
Interior
The Kona's interior layout focuses on storage and comfort. All models include heated front seats, a centre console with storage and an armrest, and a rear folding armrest with dual cupholders. The 60/40 split rear seat offers recline adjustments, and second-row HVAC vents help regulate temperature for rear passengers. A proximity key with remote start and push-button start come standard, eliminating the need for traditional key insertion.
Higher trims bring additional refinements. The Preferred adds a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel and shift knob, plus manual front passenger seat height adjustment. Preferred with Trend Package upgrades to leatherette seating surfaces, soft-touch door materials, LED interior lighting, and dual automatic temperature control with auto defogger. The N Line features sport seats with suede and leather, ambient interior lighting, and N Line-exclusive door scuff plates. Top-tier N Line with Ultimate Package models include a power driver's seat with two-way lumbar support, ventilated front seats, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.
Features
Powertrain
The base 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine pairs with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) across Essential, Preferred, and Preferred with Trend Package models. This configuration delivers reliable performance for urban and highway driving. Idle stop-and-go technology, exclusive to the Essential trim, helps reduce fuel consumption during extended stops. Front-wheel drive serves as the standard setup, while an optional HTRAC all-wheel-drive system with multi-link rear suspension is available on Essential models.
The N Line upgrades to a 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine matched with an 8-speed automatic transmission. This turbocharged setup provides increased acceleration and torque compared to the naturally aspirated engine. Paddle shifters allow manual gear selection when needed, and the column-mounted Shift-by-Wire system replaces the traditional gear selector for a cleaner cabin layout. All N Line models come standard with HTRAC all-wheel drive and multi-link rear suspension.
Technology
A 12.3-inch digital infotainment touchscreen anchors the tech suite on all Kona models. The standard 6-speaker audio system includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM radio, and Bluelink Connected Car System. Four USB-C ports—two front, two rear—provide charging access throughout the cabin. Over-the-air software updates keep the system current without requiring dealership visits. Essential models feature a 4.2-inch gauge cluster display, while Preferred with Trend Package and higher trims upgrade to a full 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
The Preferred with Trend Package adds Digital Key technology, allowing smartphone-based vehicle access, and wireless device charging eliminates cable clutter. The N Line with Ultimate Package includes a BOSE premium audio system with eight speakers, delivering improved sound quality over the base setup. The proximity-activated smart power trunk on Preferred with Trend Package opens automatically when the key fob is nearby, making loading easier with full hands.
Versions
The 2026 Kona offers four main configurations, each building on the previous tier's features. Buyers can select front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive on lower trims, while the N Line comes exclusively with all-wheel drive.
- Essential: Entry point with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting, heated front seats, 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, proximity key with remote start, and comprehensive safety suite. Available with optional HTRAC all-wheel drive.
- Preferred: Adds 18-inch alloy wheels, aero wipers, LED turn signals on side mirrors, roof side rails, rear privacy glass, leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, cargo area cover, and expanded Forward Collision Assist. Includes Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
- Preferred with Trend Package (AWD only): Builds on Preferred with power tilt-and-slide sunroof, premium body cladding, satin chrome beltline, proximity-activated smart power trunk, leatherette seating, soft-touch materials, LED interior lighting, dual automatic temperature control, Digital Key, and wireless charging.
- N Line (AWD only): Performance-focused trim with 1.6L turbo engine, 8-speed automatic, 19-inch alloy wheels, N Line styling elements (bumper, grille, emblems), Seamless Horizon LED daytime running lights, body-colour cladding, twin-tip exhaust, ambient lighting, sport seats (suede/leather), metal sport pedals, paddle shifters, and 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
- N Line with Ultimate Package (AWD only): Top-tier model adding rain-sensing wipers, power driver's seat with lumbar support, ventilated front seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, BOSE premium audio (8 speakers), Parking Distance Warning, Parking Collision Avoidance Assist–Reverse, Surround View Monitor, Blind View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Highway Driving Assist.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Hyundai Kona
What's the difference between the base engine and the turbo engine?
The 2.0L four-cylinder engine in Essential, Preferred, and Preferred with Trend Package models uses an IVT transmission and prioritizes efficiency. The N Line's 1.6L turbocharged engine pairs with an 8-speed automatic and delivers higher power output for quicker acceleration.
Is all-wheel drive available on all trims?
HTRAC all-wheel drive is optional on the Essential and standard on Preferred with Trend Package and both N Line models. The Preferred trim offers front-wheel drive only. All-wheel-drive models also receive a multi-link rear suspension for improved handling in Cambridge's winter conditions.
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