Hyundai Kona (2026): More power for the same price

The Hyundai Kona is quite popular in Germany. Since its launch in 2017, the Korean manufacturer has delivered over 160,000 units to German roads by the end of 2024. The second generation has been on the road since 2023.
For the 2026 model year, Hyundai is giving the compact SUV a major update – and without increasing the entry-level price. Not only are the engines recently revised to meet the new Euro 7 standard being used, but a new top-of-the-line trim level is now available.
The Kona continues to start at €26,900 with a 1.0 T-GDI engine producing 85 kW (115 hp). All engine variants offer increased power. The entry-level engine mentioned above, for example, delivers an additional 15 hp. The 1.6 T-GDI now produces a total of 132 kW (180 hp), and the hybrid version also gains nine hp, now producing 102 kW (138 hp).
Sporty and comfortable top modelAt the same time, the equipment range has been streamlined and made more transparent. In addition to the base Select version, there are the comfort-oriented Trend and Prime lines, as well as the sporty variants N Line and N Line X. The Prime comes standard with a digital vehicle key (NFC) and velour leather seat upholstery. Buyers can optionally add the Seat Comfort package with a relaxation function, heated rear seats, and memory function (€800) or the Leather Seat package (€1,500).
The N-Line variant retains its sporty look and bundles the most important assistance systems, such as a 360-degree camera, active blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and parking assistance, in the optional assistance package (€1,150). An electric tailgate can be ordered separately.
New to the lineup is the N Line X trim. This is intended to be the sporty top version of the compact crossover. The package includes the 180 hp engine, optional all-wheel drive, and almost all the factory-equipped features.
The prices and engine variants at a glance:
Select | trend | N Line | Prime | N Line X | |
1.0 T-GDI, 85 kW (115 hp), 6-speed M/T, front-wheel drive | 26,900 euros | ||||
1.6 T-GDI, 110 kW (150 hp), 6-speed M/T, front-wheel drive | 27,900 euros | 30,100 euros | 31,600 euros | 33,300 euros | |
1.6 T-GDI, 110 kW (150 hp), 7-speed DCT, front-wheel drive | 30,300 euros | 32,500 euros | 34,000 euros | 35,700 euros | 37,200 euros |
1.6 T-GDI, 132 kW (180 hp), 6-speed M/T, front-wheel drive | 35,300 euros | 37,000 euros | 38,500 euros | ||
1.6 T-GDI, 132 kW (180 hp), 7-speed DCT, all-wheel drive | 40,600 euros | ||||
1.6 T-GDI Hybrid, 102 kW (138 hp), 6-speed DCT, front-wheel drive | 32,950 euros | 35,250 euros | 36,750 euros | 38,450 euros | 39,950 euros |
An assistance package, a function package with ventilated seats, an LED light strip, the Bose sound system, a head-up display, a power tailgate, and other comfort features are standard. Hyundai aims to offer a combination of sportiness, comfort, and modern technology without having to worry about many extras.
With this update for the new model year, Hyundai demonstrates that upgrades don't always have to result in a price increase. With a clear lineup structure, the Kona should be able to maintain its stable sales.
More about the Hyundai Kona:
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