Key Features of the 2026 Hyundai Kona

190-hp 1.6L Turbocharged GDI 4-Cylinder

Step into SEL Premium or Limited and you unlock the available 190-hp 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder, matched to an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. This pairing gives KONA immediate, confident response for on-ramps, passing, and two-lane highways around central Indiana. The turbo’s broad torque curve makes city driving effortless, while the 8-speed’s smart gearing keeps the engine in its sweet spot. On SEL Premium, you’ll also find performance-enhancing touches like Shift-by-Wire (SBW) and a driver-focused instrument layout, so every input feels precise and modern. If you plan to load up passengers or gear, the turbo’s extra power makes a noticeable difference, especially when merging onto I-70 or navigating rolling terrain outside the city.

HTRAC All Wheel Drive

Available HTRAC All Wheel Drive adds confidence without complicating your day. Whether you’re crossing slushy intersections in February or exploring unpaved access roads to trailheads, HTRAC AWD helps KONA put power down where it counts. The system continuously monitors driving conditions and wheel slip, distributing torque to enhance traction and stability. It’s seamless in operation—you simply feel composed in rain, snow, and gravel. Pair HTRAC AWD with either engine and enjoy the peace of mind that your small SUV can handle big-weather days. For drivers who regularly travel across county lines or commute before dawn, this is the capability feature that turns KONA into an all-year solution.

12.3-inch Touchscreen Display with Available Navigation

KONA’s tech is anchored by a bright, responsive 12.3-inch touchscreen that puts your essentials—navigation (available), audio, messages, and vehicle info—front and center. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keep your interface familiar, while an available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster extends the big-screen experience behind the wheel. Steering-wheel controls, clear menu structure, and crisp graphics minimize distraction when toggling between maps and media. On Limited, built-in navigation integrates seamlessly with driver-assist systems, and Wi-Fi hotspot capability can help keep passengers connected on longer drives. From daily podcasts to road-trip playlists, the screen size and clarity elevate every drive.

Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch and Bluelink+

With available Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch, your compatible smartphone can unlock doors, start the engine, and more. You can securely share access with family—no spare key hand-offs needed—ideal when coordinating school pickups or airport runs. Bluelink+ adds more connected convenience, letting you remotely start KONA, lock or unlock, and access vehicle status from a compatible device. For winters near Indianapolis, IN, remote start combined with heated seats on upper trims is a game-changer. Together, Digital Key 2 Touch and Bluelink+ turn KONA into a car that’s as smart as your phone, simplifying busy lives without adding complexity.

Hyundai SmartSense with Advanced Assist Technologies

Every 2026 KONA benefits from standard Hyundai SmartSense, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection and Direct Oncoming (FCA-JT DO), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Lane Following Assist (LFA), Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), High Beam Assist (HBA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), and Rear Occupant Alert (ROA). On Limited, systems like Surround View Monitor (SVM), Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM), Highway Driving Assist (HDA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (N-SCC) with Stop & Go, Parking Distance Warning (PDW), Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist - Reverse/Forward/Side (PCA-R/F/S), and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) provide an extra layer of awareness and confidence. These features work quietly in the background, stepping in when needed and helping reduce driving stress in traffic, tight parking, and long highway stretches.