What to Know About the 2026 Hyundai Kona

Jan 20, 2026

Hyundai of Grand Island – What to Know About the 2026 Hyundai Kona

The 2026 Hyundai Kona brings a smart balance of style, technology, and everyday versatility to the small SUV category. Its confident stance and sleek profile are matched by thoughtfully designed space inside, intuitive controls, and advanced driver assistance. Whether the daily drive includes snow-packed mornings, gravel roads, or long interstate stretches, Kona is engineered to feel composed, efficient, and easy to live with. This overview highlights what local shoppers ask most about performance, comfort, safety, and trims, so you can quickly decide which version fits your routine.

Under the hood, Kona offers two well-matched powertrains: a smooth 2.0L engine for balanced commuting and an available turbocharged 1.6L for quicker passing power and an engaging feel. Front-wheel drive is standard, and available HTRAC all-wheel drive boosts confidence in rain and winter. An 8-speed automatic transmission helps make the most of power while keeping the ride refined. Four trims round out the lineup so you can choose your level of tech and comfort: SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited. Each adds convenience and capability in a clear, step-up progression.

Powertrains available: Choose a well-rounded 2.0L or an available 1.6L turbo for stronger acceleration and highway confidence.
AWD confidence: Available HTRAC all-wheel drive enhances traction on wet, snowy, or unpaved surfaces without sacrificing everyday efficiency.
Connected cabin: Large digital displays, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluelink+ deliver seamless connectivity and remote features.
Room and flexibility: A spacious second row, 60-40 split-reclining seats, and smart storage make errands and road trips easier.
Driver assistance suite: Standard Hyundai SmartSense features help with awareness, lane support, and parking in tight spots.

Inside, the Kona cabin feels modern and intuitive, anchored by expansive digital screens that keep maps, media, and vehicle info within easy reach. Depending on trim, you can equip a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation and a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for a clean, unified look. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while available Wi-Fi hotspot capability, Bose audio, and Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch add premium touches. Everyday conveniences such as heated seats, wireless phone charging, dual automatic temperature control, and a hands-free smart liftgate on upper trims make the Kona especially easy to use when life gets busy.

Safety and driver assistance remain Kona strengths. Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist helps detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists, while Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist add confidence in traffic and parking lots. Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist support smooth highway travel, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go helps reduce fatigue in heavy traffic. On the Limited trim, features like Highway Driving Assist, Surround View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Blind-Spot View Monitor deliver an extra layer of visibility and convenience that can make daily driving feel calmer and more controlled.

If you want a small SUV that still feels substantial on the road, the 2026 Kona is an easy model to put at the top of your list. Visit Hyundai of Grand Island to compare trims side by side, experience the turbocharged powertrain, and see how the technology simplifies your routine. We offer transparent trade valuations, flexible finance options, and test drives designed around your schedule. We are proudly serving Hastings, St. Paul, and Central City, and our team is ready to help you tailor a Kona with the features that fit your commute, weekend plans, and Nebraska weather.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is all-wheel drive available on the 2026 Kona?

Yes. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available across the lineup, adding traction and stability for challenging weather and mixed road surfaces.

What are the key differences between Kona trims?

SE focuses on value and core tech, SEL Sport adds comfort and style upgrades, SEL Premium introduces the turbo engine and larger wheels, and Limited brings premium features like advanced parking tech, upgraded displays, and additional driver assistance.

Does the Kona support wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are supported, helping you connect quickly for navigation, music, and messages without plugging in.

How versatile is the Kona for cargo and passengers?

Kona offers generous legroom for its class, a reclining 60-40 split second row, and useful storage solutions. Roof side rails and an available hands-free liftgate on upper trims add to its everyday practicality.

Which safety features come standard?

Standard features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, with additional systems available on higher trims.