The 2026 Hyundai Kona is a stylish and versatile subcompact crossover that is easy to live with and surprisingly accommodating for its size. It offers comfortable seating, thoughtful storage solutions, and a design that feels modern without being overdone. Its maneuverable footprint also makes it an appealing choice for city driving while still offering the practicality expected of an SUV. Shoppers from Carmel, NY, to Waterbury, CT, can buy or lease the latest Hyundai models at Danbury Hyundai. Here's a quick look at some highlights of the latest Hyundai Kona iteration.
Differences Between the 2025 and 2026 Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona was fully redesigned in 2024 and saw a few trim-level updates in 2025. For the 2026 model year, the automaker streamlines the Hyundai Kona lineup, dropping the SEL, SEL Convenience, N Line S, and N Line trims, and adding new mid-level SEL Sport and SEL Premium models. Additionally, the Hyundai Kona expands its roster of standard driver-assistance offerings to include Junction Turning and Driver Oncoming Detection and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
Performance
The Kona SE and SEL Sport use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (147 horsepower, 132 pound-feet of torque) that pairs with an Intelligent Variable Transmission engineered for smooth and efficient everyday driving. HTRAC® all-wheel drive is available to provide more surefooted control on your wintry Ridgefield commutes. Shoppers wanting stronger acceleration can move up to the SEL Premium or Limited trim, which upgrades to a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine (190 horsepower, 195 pound-feet of torque) and a responsive 8-speed automatic transmission.
Interior
Inside, the Kona offers a clean, modern cabin layout with supportive seating and generous room for passengers in both rows. The cargo area reserves 25.5 cubic feet for errands and outings. When you need to maximize storage, you can fold the rear seats to expand space to 63.7 cubic feet, an impressive number for a subcompact crossover. Available comfort and convenience upgrades include.
- 8-way power driver's seat
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-tilt-and-slide sunroof with sunshade
- Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch
- Heated steering wheel
- H-Tex leatherette upholstery
Infotainment and Driver-Assist Technology
Every 2026 Kona features a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, plus Over-the-Air update capability. Upper trims add a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument panel for a fully integrated panoramic display experience. Standard driver-assist technologies include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian/Junction Turning/Driver Oncoming/Cyclist Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Smart Cruise Control w/Stop & Go
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Safe Exit Warning
- Rear Occupant Alert
Test-Drive a New Hyundai Kona near New Milford
Get in touch with Danbury Hyundai for more information about the 2026 Hyundai Kona, or stop by our dealership for a test drive. We'd love to give you a tour.
