Core summary
Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona is a five-door subcompact crossover SUV positioned below Hyundai’s Tucson in many markets. The current second generation arrived for the 2023 model year and expanded the model’s dimensions, cabin space and powertrain range. Hyundai developed the second-generation vehicle with an electric version as the design starting point, then adapted the architecture and styling for hybrid and internal-combustion variants.
For the 2026 U.S. model year, Hyundai lists the gasoline Kona in SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium and Limited forms. The U.S. gasoline range uses a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine or a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine, with front-wheel drive standard and HTRAC all-wheel drive available. Hyundai’s U.S. newsroom identifies the 2026 Kona gasoline model as a carry-over vehicle and says there is no 2026 Kona Electric model year in the United States.
Globally, the current Kona family also includes hybrid, electric and N Line variants, although availability, equipment and model-year timing differ by region.
History & generations
Hyundai introduced the Kona nameplate in 2017 as a B-segment SUV. Hyundai’s official vehicle-history archive describes the original model as an independently styled addition to its SUV range and records the nameplate as continuing from 2017 onward.
The first generation expanded into several configurations. Hyundai introduced the Kona Electric in 2018, while a Kona Hybrid joined selected markets in 2019. The first-generation range later included the performance-focused Kona N and the sporty N Line, with powertrain and transmission combinations varying between markets.
Hyundai revealed the second-generation Kona in January 2023. The new model was engineered around a larger package and was announced with electric, hybrid and internal-combustion powertrains, plus N Line styling. Hyundai reported a 60-millimeter wheelbase increase, 77 millimeters of additional second-row legroom and 11 millimeters of extra second-row headroom compared with the previous generation.
The second-generation gasoline and electric Konas entered the U.S. lineup for the 2024 model year.
First-generation Hyundai Kona
Original B-segment Kona with gasoline, electric, hybrid and performance variants.
Second-generation Hyundai Kona
Larger EV-led design with ICE, hybrid and electric versions by market.
Body, platform & design
The second-generation Kona uses a design direction Hyundai describes as EV-led. Its front and rear lighting are connected by slim horizontal “Seamless Horizon” lamps, while the body retains pronounced wheel-arch cladding and a raised crossover stance. Electric versions add closed-off aerodynamic surfacing and pixel-inspired details; gasoline and hybrid versions use powertrain-specific front-end treatments.
The U.S. 2026 gasoline Kona measures 171.3 inches long and rides on a 104.7-inch wheelbase. Width is 71.9 inches, while height varies with drivetrain and trim. Hyundai lists 17-, 18- and 19-inch wheel designs in the U.S. specification, including 19-inch N Line and Limited designs.
The shape prioritizes visual width and cabin packaging rather than a traditional upright SUV profile. The roofline remains practical for a small crossover, and the larger second-generation body creates more usable rear-seat and cargo space than the original model. Exact exterior details differ between gasoline, hybrid, electric and N Line versions.
Engine & drivetrain
The 2026 U.S. gasoline Kona offers two engines. The standard unit is a 2.0-liter MPI Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It uses Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission and is available with front-wheel drive or HTRAC all-wheel drive.
The available engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and can also be configured with front-wheel drive or HTRAC all-wheel drive.
The global second-generation family adds a 1.6-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain. Hyundai Europe lists the Kona Hybrid at 138 PS and 265 Nm, using a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and front-wheel drive.
The second-generation Kona Electric uses a single electric motor and is offered with different battery and output configurations by market. Hyundai Worldwide cites a 65.4-kWh version with more than 490 kilometers of WLTP-estimated range and 10-to-80-percent DC charging in about 43 minutes under stated test conditions.
Trim differences
The 2026 U.S. gasoline Kona has four listed trims: SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium and Limited. Hyundai’s official comparison page identifies these as the available matching trims for the model year.
The SE is the entry specification and uses the 2.0-liter engine. The SEL Sport adds appearance and equipment upgrades, while the SEL Premium combines the 2.0-liter powertrain with additional convenience and technology content. The Limited is the highest listed gasoline trim and is available with the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine as well as the standard engine family shown in Hyundai’s specifications. Exact drivetrain pairing and equipment vary by configuration.
Hyundai’s 2026 U.S. trim structure differs from earlier model years, which included SEL, N Line and other naming combinations. It also differs from Europe, where Hyundai lists Kona Hybrid and petrol trims such as Entry, N Line and Premium.
The Kona Electric uses a separate trim structure in markets where it is sold. In the U.S., the 2024 Kona Electric was offered in SE, SEL and Limited forms, but Hyundai states that the U.S. will not have a 2026 Kona Electric model year.
Interior & seating
The second-generation Kona’s cabin is wider and more spacious than the first generation. Hyundai designed the interior around a horizontal dashboard, a larger digital display area and a front bench-style layout that visually emphasizes width. The gear selector is mounted behind the steering wheel in U.S. gasoline models, leaving additional space in the center console area.
U.S. 2026 gasoline specifications list 41.7 inches of front legroom and 38.2 inches of rear legroom. Passenger volume is listed at 101.2 cubic feet in several configurations, while cargo volume is 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Lower-roof configurations list 99 cubic feet of passenger volume.
Technology varies by trim but includes digital instrumentation, touchscreen connectivity, smartphone integration and available navigation, premium audio, Digital Key and surround-view monitoring. Hyundai also offers a flat rear floor in the electric version, supporting the EV’s packaging advantages.
Rear-seat comfort benefits from the longer wheelbase, although the Kona remains a small SUV whose two-row cabin is best suited to compact-family use rather than maximum passenger capacity.
Efficiency & range
For the 2026 U.S. gasoline Kona, Hyundai lists EPA estimates of up to 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and the 2.0-liter engine. Turbocharged versions return lower published figures, while all-wheel drive reduces efficiency compared with equivalent front-wheel-drive configurations.
The U.S. fuel tank is listed at 12.4 gallons for several 2.0-liter configurations and 13.2 gallons for turbocharged versions. Wheel size, drivetrain, equipment and engine selection affect the published EPA result.
The hybrid is the efficiency-oriented configuration in markets where it is available. Its gasoline engine and electric motor can operate separately or together, and regenerative braking replenishes the hybrid battery during deceleration.
The electric Kona removes tailpipe emissions during operation and supports DC fast charging, battery preconditioning and Vehicle-to-Load capability in applicable markets. Hyundai’s global electric specifications use WLTP testing, while U.S. electric versions use EPA estimates, so range figures should not be compared directly without considering the test cycle.
Safety & equipment
The 2026 U.S. Kona includes four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, electronic stability control, traction-control support, brake assist, vehicle stability management and tire-pressure monitoring. Hyundai also lists dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags and side-curtain airbags with rollover sensors as standard safety equipment.
Available driver-assistance features vary by trim and include forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic assistance and surround-view monitoring. Hyundai’s trim comparison identifies smart cruise control, blind-spot collision functions and surround-view monitoring among selectable equipment categories.
NHTSA’s published 2026 model-year vehicle-selection page does not list the Kona among the vehicles selected for its 2026 five-star testing group. That page is a testing-selection list rather than a complete safety-rating result.
NHTSA recall report 26V-069 covers affected 2026 Kona vehicles in the United States following a condition involving possible structural-strength reduction in a steering knuckle. Buyers should check the vehicle identification number in NHTSA’s recall system before purchase or operation.
Strengths
The second-generation Kona’s main strengths are its increased interior volume, broad global powertrain coverage and distinctive packaging. Hyundai reports meaningful gains in wheelbase, rear-seat legroom and rear-seat headroom over the first generation, while the U.S. specification provides a substantial 63.7 cubic feet of cargo volume with the rear seats folded.
The gasoline lineup gives U.S. buyers a choice between a simpler naturally aspirated engine and a stronger turbocharged unit. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available with both engine families, which broadens its suitability for winter weather and unpaved access roads.
The global family is unusually diverse for a small crossover: Hyundai offers ICE, hybrid and electric versions, with N Line appearance variants in selected markets. The electric model also provides battery preconditioning, fast charging and Vehicle-to-Load capability where equipped.
A practical small SUV with broad global powertrain and equipment coverage.
Considerations
The Kona’s specification is strongly market-dependent. The 2026 U.S. range is gasoline-only, while Hyundai Europe lists petrol and hybrid versions and other markets continue to offer electric variants. Trim names, engines, transmissions, charging equipment and safety features therefore require regional confirmation.
The 2.0-liter engine prioritizes straightforward operation and fuel economy, but its output is lower than the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. The turbo version provides more torque but carries higher published fuel consumption and is tied to the eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Kona is still a subcompact crossover. Its improved rear space and cargo capacity do not change its basic role as a two-row vehicle. Larger families, frequent heavy cargo users and buyers seeking substantial towing capacity may need a larger Hyundai SUV.
The 2026 U.S. recall identified by NHTSA is a specific ownership consideration. Recall completion should be confirmed for affected vehicles before regular use.
Recommended use
The Kona is best suited to drivers who want a maneuverable small SUV with a higher seating position, useful cargo flexibility and modern connectivity. The front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter version is the efficiency-focused U.S. choice, while the turbocharged engine is better aligned with drivers who prioritize stronger acceleration. HTRAC all-wheel drive adds traction capability for snow, wet roads and maintained gravel routes, but it does not turn the Kona into a specialized off-road vehicle.
The longer second-generation body makes the Kona more practical for small households than the original model. Its 60/40-split folding rear seat and published 63.7-cubic-foot maximum cargo volume support bicycles, shopping, luggage and compact recreational equipment.
The hybrid is the logical choice in markets where minimizing fuel use is the priority. The electric Kona suits drivers with dependable charging access and regular urban or regional driving patterns. Its suitability depends on local charging infrastructure, climate and the exact battery specification.
FAQ
**Is the Hyundai Kona a five-seat SUV?**
Yes. It has two seating rows and five passenger positions.
**What is the current Hyundai Kona generation?**
The second generation, introduced in 2023, remains current for the 2026 review period.
**Which engines does the 2026 U.S. Kona use?**
The U.S. model offers a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine or a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.
**Does every Kona have all-wheel drive?**
No. Front-wheel drive is standard, and HTRAC all-wheel drive is available.
**Is there a 2026 Kona Electric in the United States?**
Hyundai’s U.S. newsroom says there is no 2026 Kona Electric model year in the United States.
**Which 2026 U.S. Kona trims are listed?**
Hyundai lists SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium and Limited trims.
What makes the Hyundai Kona different?
A practical small SUV with broad global powertrain and equipment coverage.
Who should consider it?
Urban commuting, small-family transport and light recreational travel.
Sources & updates
Research for this Hyundai Kona profile prioritized current manufacturer specifications, model-year equipment pages and official press material. Independent safety or regulatory records were used where available. Historical references were kept separate from current-generation specifications and image identification.
Equipment, pricing and certified figures can vary by market, trim and model year. The expandable reference list below contains the linked sources used for verification. Last editorial review: August 30, 2026.
View all official references (8 more)
Last editorial review: August 30, 2026. Specifications remain market- and model-year-specific.