Change isn’t always a good thing, and that partially applies to the 2026 Hyundai Kona. While the latest generation of the popular subcompact SUV gains various welcomed upgrades over the previous model, it sadly loses the small remnants of its fun in the process.
The 2026 Kona uses an updated version of Hyundai and Kia’s jointly developed K-platform, currently used and shared between the two manufacturers’ compact sedans and crossovers such as the Seltos, Niro and Elantra. The new chassis complements a fresh look, as Hyundai brings its futuristic cyberpunk-inspired design motifs from its IONIQ electric vehicle line to the Kona, exemplified by LED bar front and rear taillights, aggressive wheel arches and sharp body lines.
Though the edgier cues work well on the EVs, I don’t think they translate the same here. From some angles, the Kona looks more like a computer mouse than a car. I commend the designers for trying something different, but in terms of style, it’s an acquired taste.
Despite my feelings about the outside, I’m over the moon about the changes inside. Thanks to a slightly longer wheelbase and a recessed dashboard, the new Kona boasts copious amounts of much-needed legroom compared to the outgoing model. It also receives a 12.3-inch touchscreen with digital gauges and thankfully keeps physical buttons and knobs to control climate and volume. Rear seating is also more spacious, and trunk storage capacity with the 60/40 split bench seats folded down expands by 17 cubic ft. from the last Kona.
If these new digs are a lot to get used to, then maybe you’ll find peace in knowing that the Kona’s powertrain is still not much to write home about. Engine options are the base 147 hp 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four cylinder (which this one has), or a turbocharged 1.6-liter four cylinder with 190 horsepower. There’s also an electric version with a 150-kilowatt motor with an EPA estimated 261 miles of range.
Though the performance is predictably lackluster, handling-wise the 2026 Kona emits a smooth and drama-free ride. However, the overall driving feel pails in comparison to the old gen. Due to the new model weighing roughly a thousand pounds more than the last, what was once a somewhat peppy and surprisingly nimble economy car is now just a bland, sluggish NPC-mobile.
What’s also noticeably absent is the addition of an N version. For those unfamiliar, the Kona N was a souped-up hot hatch in a crossover’s body, with a 276 horsepower turbocharged inline-four, sport suspension and an 8-speed dual clutch automatic, all crafted from Hyundai’s performance division. Although there is an N-Line trim for the current Kona, it’s just a body kit with no other internal upgrades.
Besides its wacky looks, tame driving feel and lack of an N model, there’s still a lot to like about the new Kona. And with an MSRP of $26,675, you get the comforts and tech from more pricier cars at an adequate bargain. But whatever soul the Hyundai Kona had is all gone now. If you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of space for some everyday fun, I’d just stick with the old one.
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