2026 Hyundai Kona vs 2025 vs 2024: Key Model Differences
The Hyundai Kona remains one of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, offering excellent value and modern features. Comparing the model years will help you understand what’s new and improved. While these three generations share the same reliable foundation, there are meaningful differences in technology, features, and available powertrains. Let’s explore what sets each year apart.
Engine Options and Performance
2024 Hyundai Kona
The Kona introduced a comprehensive redesign with three distinct powertrain options:
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 147
Torque: 132 lb-ft
Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Fuel economy: approximately 8.5 L/100 km city, 7.2 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 195
Torque: 195 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 8.8 L/100 km city, 7.4 L/100 km highway
Kona Electric:
Electric motor with 320 km (199 miles) of range
Available with standard or long-range battery options
Regenerative braking system with i-Pedal driving mode
All gasoline models came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available.
2025 Hyundai Kona
This model year maintained the same three powertrain options with minor refinements:
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 147
Torque: 132 lb-ft
Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Fuel economy: approximately 8.5 L/100 km city, 7.2 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 195
Torque: 195 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 8.8 L/100 km city, 7.4 L/100 km highway
Kona Electric:
Continued with improved battery technology
Enhanced charging capabilities
Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality standard
Key change: This model introduced Digital Key technology on most trims, allowing smartphone-based vehicle access.
2026 Hyundai Kona
The new model year continues with the same three powertrain options:
2.0L Naturally Aspirated Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 147
Torque: 132 lb-ft
Transmission: CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission)
Fuel economy: approximately 8.5 L/100 km city, 7.2 L/100 km highway
1.6L Turbocharged Gasoline Engine:
Horsepower: 195
Torque: 195 lb-ft
Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
Fuel economy: approximately 8.8 L/100 km city, 7.4 L/100 km highway
Kona Electric:
Maintained with proven battery technology
Continued V2L functionality
Enhanced charging infrastructure compatibility
The new model maintains powertrain consistency, focusing on refinement rather than major changes.
Trim Level Options
2024 Kona Trims
Essential
Preferred
Preferred Sport
Preferred with Trend Package
Limited
N Line
N Line Ultimate
Kona Electric (multiple trims)
2025 Kona Trims
Essential
Preferred
Preferred Sport
Preferred with Trend Package
Limited
N Line
N Line Ultimate
Kona Electric (multiple trims)
2026 Kona Trims
Essential
Preferred
Preferred with Trend Package
Limited
N Line
N Line Ultimate
Kona Electric (multiple trims)
The new model year discontinues the Preferred Sport trim, simplifying the lineup and focusing on the Preferred with Trend Package as the mid-level option.
Technology and Infotainment
2024 Hyundai Kona
Dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens
Digital Key 2 for the first time in Canada
Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
Shift-by-wire gear selector relocated to stalk behind steering wheel
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Hyundai Bluelink connected services
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
2025 Hyundai Kona
Continued dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens
Digital Key technology (most trims except base)
Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
Enhanced Hyundai Bluelink with improved features
Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Improved infotainment responsiveness
2026 Hyundai Kona
Maintains dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens
Digital Key technology on select trims
Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates
Enhanced Hyundai Bluelink connectivity
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Improved user interface and navigation
The new model brings wireless smartphone connectivity as a major upgrade, eliminating the need for cables when connecting devices.
Interior Features and Comfort
2024 Hyundai Kona
Five-passenger seating
Front seats 30 percent slimmer to maximize rear legroom
Curveless Bench Seat in second row
Two-stage latching system for rear seat reclining
Heated front seats on select trims
Available ventilated front seats
Cloth seats on base models
Available leather upholstery on premium trims
Cargo space: 723 litres (25.5 cubic feet) behind rear seats
Cargo space with rear seats folded: 1,803 litres (64 cubic feet)
2025 Hyundai Kona
Five-passenger seating with improved comfort
Enhanced interior materials
Heated front seats on multiple trims
Available ventilated front seats
Available heated leather steering wheel
Proximity key on select trims
Improved soundproofing
Cargo space: 723 litres (25.5 cubic feet) behind rear seats
Cargo space with rear seats folded: 1,803 litres (64 cubic feet)
2026 Hyundai Kona
Five-passenger seating with refined comfort
Premium interior materials on higher trims
Heated front seats on select trims
Available ventilated front seats
Enhanced cabin refinement and noise reduction
Cargo space: 723 litres (25.5 cubic feet) behind rear seats
Cargo space with rear seats folded: 1,803 litres (64 cubic feet)
Improved climate control systems
Exterior Design and Styling
2024 Hyundai Kona
Completely redesigned exterior styling
Distinctive parametric grille design
LED headlights and taillights on most trims
Modern, angular body lines
Multiple wheel options from 17 to 19 inches
Available roof rails
N Line model with body-colour cladding and 19-inch N Line alloy wheels
N Line rear spoiler and dual-outlet exhaust tips
2025 Hyundai Kona
Refined exterior styling from redesign
Enhanced LED lighting elements
Updated wheel designs and options
Improved paint quality
N Line variant with sportier appearance
Maintained modern, sophisticated look
2026 Hyundai Kona
Carries over refined exterior styling
Updated grille design on new trims
Enhanced LED lighting systems
New wheel designs for updated trims
Improved paint options
Maintains modern, sophisticated appearance
Smart lift power tailgate added to Preferred Trend and N-Line trims
The new model adds the smart lift power tailgate feature to more trims, improving convenience for cargo loading.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
2024 Hyundai Kona
Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Standard Lane Departure Warning
Standard Driver Attention Warning
Standard Auto High Beams
Available Blind Spot Monitor
Available Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Available Adaptive Cruise Control
Available Surround View Monitor
Multiple airbags (six standard)
2025 Hyundai Kona
Standard Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with enhanced detection
Standard Lane Following Assist (LFA)
Standard Lane Departure Warning
Standard Driver Attention Warning
Standard Auto High Beams
Available Blind Spot Monitor with rear cross-traffic alert
Available Adaptive Cruise Control
Available Surround View Monitor
Multiple airbags (six standard)
2026 Hyundai Kona
All safety features carried over
Continued emphasis on collision avoidance
Enhanced camera systems
Standard safety package across all trims
Available advanced driver monitoring
Improved pedestrian detection systems
Dimensions and Cargo Space
All three model years maintain nearly identical dimensions:
Overall Dimensions:
Length: 4,350 mm (171.3 inches)
Width: 1,825 mm (71.9 inches)
Height: 1,595 mm (62.8 inches)
Wheelbase: 2,600 mm (102.4 inches)
Interior Space:
Front headroom: 1,020 mm (40.2 inches)
Front legroom: 1,050 mm (41.3 inches)
Rear headroom: 975 mm (38.4 inches)
Rear legroom: 880 mm (34.6 inches)
Cargo Space:
Behind rear seats: 723 litres (25.5 cubic feet)
With rear seats folded: 1,803 litres (64 cubic feet)
Curb Weight:
Approximately 1,450 kg (3,197 lbs), depending on powertrain
Fuel Tank Capacity
All three model years maintain the same fuel tank capacity:
Standard tank: 54 litres (approximately 14.3 gallons)
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
Choose the 2024 Hyundai Kona if:
You want the original redesigned generation with proven features
Digital Key technology appeals to you
You prefer the widest range of trim options
Budget is a primary consideration
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona if:
Enhanced Digital Key technology on more trims is important
You want improved safety features
You prefer the balance of proven technology and new features
You want the latest generation with current features
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona if:
Wireless smartphone connectivity is a priority
You want the latest model year with current features
The smart lift power tailgate on Preferred Trend and N-Line is appealing
You want the most refined interior and exterior styling
You want the newest safety technology available
The Hyundai Kona: Value and Reliability
The Hyundai Kona continues to deliver excellent value and reliability across all three model years. The first model represents the all-new generation, featuring a complete redesign and the introduction of Digital Key technology. Last year’s model brought refinements in technology and enhanced safety features. The new model year refines the formula further with wireless connectivity and the addition of smart lift power tailgate on more trims.
The most notable changes are the introduction of Digital Key, enhanced features, and wireless smartphone connectivity. All three years offer the same three powertrain options, so your choice depends primarily on desired technology features and model year preference. Test drive multiple years to experience the technology and comfort improvements firsthand. Your ideal choice depends on your desired features, budget, and preference for the latest technology.
*Disclaimer: Content contained in this post is for informational purposes only and may include features and options from US or international models. Please contact the dealership for more information or to confirm vehicle, feature availability.*
