Hyundai Kona: Price, Specs, MPG & Review
The Hyundai Kona is a small SUV for buyers who want an affordable crossover with a raised seating position, useful cargo room, modern technology, and available all-wheel drive.
The 2026 lineup has four trims: SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited. SE and SEL Sport models use a 147-hp 2.0-liter engine focused on efficiency. SEL Premium and Limited trims use a stronger 190-hp turbocharged engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The Kona is a good match for daily commuters, first-time SUV buyers, couples, and small families. It is less suitable for buyers who need a third row, heavy towing capability, or large-SUV cargo space.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.4/10
The Hyundai Kona earns an 8.4/10 WheelPedia Rating for its affordable entry price, useful cargo area, available turbocharged engine, available AWD, strong safety results, and long warranty coverage. Its main drawbacks are modest standard-engine performance, limited rear-seat space for taller adults, and higher trims that approach larger-SUV pricing.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 9.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 7.5/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.4/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full methodology.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $25,500 MSRP in the United States, before freight, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
- Four trims: SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited.
- Standard 2.0-liter engine produces 147 hp.
- Turbocharged 1.6-liter engine produces 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.
- Available HTRAC all-wheel drive across the gas lineup.
- Returns up to an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined.
- Offers 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats.
- Maximum cargo capacity is 63.7 cubic feet.
- Every trim includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
- Earned a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Hyundai Kona |
| Vehicle type | Small SUV |
| Seating capacity | 5 |
| Standard engine | 2.0L four-cylinder |
| Standard output | 147 hp / 132 lb-ft |
| Turbo engine | 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Turbo output | 190 hp / 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | Intelligent Variable Transmission or 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD available |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 31 mpg combined |
| Cargo capacity behind rear seats | 25.5 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo capacity | 63.7 cu. ft. |
| Length | 171.3–172.6 in. |
| Width | 71.9 in. |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 in. |
Expert Tip: The SEL Premium is the Kona to target for most buyers. It adds the much stronger turbocharged engine, an eight-speed automatic, and a more complete interior without reaching the Limited’s price.
About the Hyundai Kona
The Kona sits between the smaller Hyundai Venue and the larger Hyundai Tucson. It is designed for buyers who want more practicality than a hatchback but do not need a larger, more expensive SUV.
The current Kona is noticeably roomier than earlier versions. It has a useful rear cargo area, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, and a modern dashboard with a large touchscreen.
The standard engine is adequate for city driving and normal commuting. Buyers who regularly drive on highways, carry passengers, or want better passing power should choose the turbocharged SEL Premium or Limited.
Price and Trims
These are starting MSRPs for the 2026 Hyundai Kona before freight, taxes, registration, accessories, and dealer charges.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Engine | Best For |
| SE | $25,500 | 147-hp 2.0L | Lowest-cost Kona ownership |
| SEL Sport | $26,825 | 147-hp 2.0L | More comfort and style at a reasonable price |
| SEL Premium | $28,425 | 190-hp 1.6L turbo | Best mix of power, features, and value |
| Limited | $32,535 | 190-hp 1.6L turbo | Buyers wanting the most equipment |
For current pricing, specifications, and local availability, see the official Hyundai Kona page.
Which Hyundai Kona Trim Is Best?
- Best overall: SEL Premium
- Best low-price choice: SE
- Best value for comfort: SEL Sport
- Best for features and technology: Limited
The SE is a good fit for buyers who want a modern small SUV at the lowest possible price. It includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Hyundai SmartSense safety technology.
The SEL Sport adds heated front seats, wireless device charging, larger wheels, roof rails, and more polished interior details. It is a good choice for buyers who do not need the turbo engine.
The SEL Premium is the strongest all-round option because it adds the 190-hp turbo engine, eight-speed automatic transmission, H-Tex seating surfaces, power driver’s seat, and 19-inch wheels.
The Limited is for buyers who want the most equipment, including ventilated front seats, Bose audio, a hands-free smart liftgate, navigation, surround-view monitoring, and added parking technology.
Engines and Performance
The Kona offers two engines.
2.0L Four-Cylinder Engine
SE and SEL Sport models use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It works well for city driving, errands, and normal commuting.
It uses Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission. Acceleration is relaxed, particularly when the Kona is fully loaded or merging at highway speeds.
1.6L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder Engine
SEL Premium and Limited trims use a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters.
The turbocharged Kona feels much quicker and more confident than the standard-engine models. It is the better choice for drivers who regularly travel on highways, drive in hilly areas, or want a more responsive small SUV.
HTRAC all-wheel drive is available on every gas Kona trim.
Driving Experience
The Kona is easy to park, easy to drive in traffic, and more comfortable than many buyers expect from a small SUV. Its compact size is useful in crowded city areas, while the higher seating position gives the driver a better view of the road than a sedan.
Standard-engine models are tuned for lower running costs and smooth everyday driving. Turbocharged models feel more capable and provide stronger acceleration without becoming overly harsh.
AWD models add traction for wet roads, snow, gravel, and light off-pavement routes. The Kona is not a dedicated off-road SUV, but AWD can be useful for drivers in poor-weather regions.
Fuel Economy
| Configuration | EPA-Estimated City/Highway/Combined MPG |
| 2.0L FWD | 28 / 35 / 31 mpg |
| 2.0L AWD | 26 / 29 / 27 mpg |
| 1.6L turbo FWD | 26 / 31 / 28 mpg |
| 1.6L turbo AWD | 25 / 28 / 26 mpg |
The standard 2.0-liter front-wheel-drive Kona is the most efficient gas version. The turbo trims use more fuel, but the stronger performance is worth it for many buyers.
Actual MPG will vary with driving style, traffic, weather, cargo, tire pressure, and AWD use.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Kona has a clean, modern cabin with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen across the range. Its dashboard design feels more current than many small SUVs at this price.
Standard and available features include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth and USB-C charging ports
- Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Hyundai Digital Key on selected trims
- Bluelink+ connected-car services
- Available wireless device charging
- Available Bose premium audio system
- Available heated front seats
- Available ventilated front seats
- Available heated steering wheel
- Available power sunroof
- Available navigation
- Available hands-free smart liftgate
The front seats are comfortable for daily driving. Rear-seat space is usable for adults on shorter journeys, but taller rear passengers may want a larger vehicle such as the Hyundai Tucson.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Measurement | Hyundai Kona |
| Cargo behind rear seats | 25.5 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 63.7 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 5 passengers |
| Rear seat | 60/40 split-folding |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 in. |
| Width | 71.9 in. |
The Kona’s 25.5-cubic-foot cargo area is useful for groceries, small luggage, gym gear, and everyday shopping. Folding the rear seats expands cargo room to 63.7 cubic feet for larger items.
It is more practical than a small hatchback, but buyers who regularly carry strollers, large pets, or bulky equipment should compare it with a compact SUV.
Exterior Design
The Kona has a distinctive look with a wide stance, slim LED lighting elements, sculpted body panels, and a squared-off rear end.
SE and SEL Sport trims have a cleaner, more understated appearance. SEL Premium and Limited trims add more upscale exterior details, larger wheels, and the more powerful turbocharged engine.
The design is more expressive than many small SUVs. That will appeal to buyers who want something less generic, though shoppers who prefer a conservative look may want to compare several options in person.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Kona includes Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance technology. Standard and available features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Pedestrian, cyclist, junction-turning, and direct-oncoming detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear automatic emergency braking
- Safe Exit Warning
- Smart Cruise Control
- Available surround-view monitor
- Available Remote Smart Parking Assist
- Available Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist
The 2026 Hyundai Kona earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. IIHS lists Good ratings in small-overlap front, updated moderate-overlap front, and updated side-impact testing, along with Good pedestrian and vehicle-to-vehicle front-crash-prevention results. Review the current IIHS Top Safety Pick results for full details.
Buyers should also check the latest NHTSA safety information and run a VIN-specific recall search before purchasing.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Kona has Hyundai’s long standard warranty package, which is especially useful in the small-SUV category.
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 7 years / unlimited miles |
SE and SEL Sport models should have the lowest ownership costs because of their lower purchase price, simpler powertrain, and better fuel economy. Turbocharged trims cost more upfront but give buyers a more satisfying driving experience.
Follow Hyundai’s maintenance schedule, retain service records, and confirm open recalls before buying a new or used Kona.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Affordable starting price
- Useful cargo capacity for a small SUV
- Available turbocharged 190-hp engine
- Available all-wheel drive on every gas trim
- Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Strong standard safety technology
- Long powertrain warranty
- Easy to park and drive in cities
- 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award
What We Don’t Like
- Standard engine feels slow when loaded
- Turbo engine is not available on lower trims
- Rear-seat room is limited for taller adults
- AWD reduces fuel economy
- Limited trim approaches compact-SUV pricing
- No dedicated off-road version
- Ride can feel firm on larger wheels
Competitors
The Hyundai Kona competes with small SUVs such as the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Seltos, Nissan Kicks, and Chevrolet Trax.
The Kona is a strong fit for buyers who want a modern cabin, useful cargo room, available AWD, and a choice between efficiency and turbocharged performance. The Honda HR-V is worth considering for buyers who place rear-seat comfort first. The Mazda CX-30 is a good alternative for buyers who want more engaging handling and a more premium-feeling cabin.
Related WheelPedia Content
Before financing a Kona, read how car financing works and consider getting a car loan preapproval before visiting a dealership.
If you are buying your first SUV, read how to buy your first car before shopping. Used-car buyers should also learn how to check a car’s accident history before making an offer.
Should You Buy the Hyundai Kona?
Buy the Hyundai Kona if you want a small SUV that is easy to drive, easy to park, well equipped, and practical enough for everyday life.
Choose the SE if price matters most. Choose the SEL Sport if you want more comfort without moving to a turbo model. Choose the SEL Premium if you want the best mix of power, features, and value. Choose the Limited if premium technology and parking features are priorities.
Skip the Kona if you need a roomy back seat for tall adults, a third row, substantial towing capability, or a large-SUV cargo area.
Hyundai Kona FAQs
How much does the Hyundai Kona cost?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona starts at $25,500 MSRP in the United States, before freight, taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
How much horsepower does the Hyundai Kona have?
SE and SEL Sport models have a 147-hp 2.0-liter engine. SEL Premium and Limited trims have a 190-hp turbocharged 1.6-liter engine.
Does the Hyundai Kona have all-wheel drive?
Yes. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available on every gas Kona trim.
How much cargo space does the Hyundai Kona have?
The Kona has 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 63.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.
Is the Hyundai Kona good on gas?
Yes. The front-wheel-drive 2.0-liter Kona is EPA-rated at up to 31 mpg combined.
Which Hyundai Kona is fastest?
The SEL Premium and Limited are the quickest Kona trims because they use a 190-hp turbocharged engine and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Is the Hyundai Kona safe?
Yes. The 2026 Kona earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award and includes a useful range of standard driver-assistance features. Confirm the exact trim, build date, and current VIN-specific recall status before buying.
Does the Hyundai Kona have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the Kona lineup.
How long is the Hyundai Kona warranty?
The Kona includes a 5-year/60,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Kona is one of the stronger choices for buyers who want an affordable small SUV without settling for a basic interior or limited safety technology.
Its standard engine is best for lower-cost commuting, while turbocharged models make the Kona more satisfying on highways and longer trips. The cargo area is useful, AWD is available across the lineup, and the warranty coverage adds ownership confidence.
For most buyers, the SEL Premium is the trim to choose. It has the turbocharged engine, added comfort features, and a price that still makes sense against many small-SUV rivals.