2026 Hyundai Kona
Priced from $25,500 to $34,150 across 14 trims, the 2026 Hyundai Kona is a SUV that we have evaluated using data from six independent sources: EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, RepairPal, AAA, and the manufacturer. What follows is every verifiable data point we could find.
4-star safety. A fuel cost. 4.0/5 reliability. That is the snapshot for the 2026 Hyundai Kona among value SUVs. NHTSA has 2 recall campaigns on file for this vehicle.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Hyundai Kona are lower estimated fuel cost and high published crash-test results, with an above-average RepairPal reliability rating. The main caution is that there are already multiple recalls on file.
- fuel cost
- safety
- reliability
Strongest published signals
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among gas SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,400. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Safety: 4-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
Limits and cautions
- There are 2 recalls on file already, even if that still lands near the current class average. Zero-recall cars 2026 →
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $25,500 - $34,150
- EPA Combined MPG
- 26-31 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 4-Star
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,400 - $1,700/yr
- Recalls on File
- 2 recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $750 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 3 on file
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
How Safe Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
In NHTSA testing, the 2026 Hyundai Kona received 4 out of 5 stars overall. 82% of SUVs scored higher with a 5-star rating. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs earned the top 5-star rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 15.9%
While NHTSA uses a star rating system, IIHS rates individual crash types. The two together offer a fuller view of how this vehicle performs in different crash scenarios.
How Did the 2026 Hyundai Kona Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Hyundai Kona a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. IIHS tests are independent of NHTSA and use different crash configurations. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | A Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Small SUVs
Test scores tell part of the safety story. The recall record adds another dimension: real-world defects identified after production.
Does the 2026 Hyundai Kona Have Any Recalls?
NHTSA has 2 recall campaigns on file for the 2026 Hyundai Kona, affecting ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM. This is typical for SUVs, which average 1.8 recall campaigns. Recall repairs are provided free at authorized dealers. Source: NHTSA.
2 recall campaigns on file with NHTSA.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, STEERING:LINKAGES:KNUCKLE:SPINDLE:ARM
Most recent: February 2026
Units affected: 342,318
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA has 3 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Hyundai Kona. This is below the average of 8 complaints for 2026 SUVs. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
2 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-02-17
Most-reported problem areas
- Fuel System2
- Speed Control1
- Powertrain1
- Structure1
- Brakes1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
From safety to cost. How much fuel this vehicle uses directly affects what you pay month to month.
What Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona Fuel Economy?
At up to 31 combined MPG, the 2026 Hyundai Kona's fuel costs are estimated at $1,400 per year, near the $1,396 average for value SUVs. Source: EPA.
Ranges from 26 to 31 combined MPG depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | 31 MPG | 28 | 35 | $1,400/yr |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | 31 MPG | 28 | 35 | $1,400/yr |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | 31 MPG | 28 | 35 | $1,400/yr |
| SE AWD GAS | 28 MPG | 26 | 31 | $1,550/yr |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | 27 MPG | 26 | 29 | $1,600/yr |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | 27 MPG | 26 | 29 | $1,600/yr |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 28 MPG | 26 | 31 | $1,550/yr |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 28 MPG | 26 | 31 | $1,550/yr |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 26 MPG | 25 | 28 | $1,700/yr |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 26 MPG | 25 | 28 | $1,700/yr |
| Limited 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 28 MPG | 26 | 31 | $1,550/yr |
| Limited 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 28 MPG | 26 | 31 | $1,550/yr |
| Limited 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 26 MPG | 25 | 28 | $1,700/yr |
| Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | 26 MPG | 25 | 28 | $1,700/yr |
Beyond fuel, the full ownership picture includes insurance, routine maintenance, depreciation, and financing. AAA publishes annual estimates for each vehicle class.
What Does the 2026 Hyundai Kona Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Hyundai Kona ranges from $69,880 to $94,045 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Subcompact SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,746/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,726/yr |
| Depreciation | $3,554/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $641/yr |
| Financing | $898/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $10,279/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.66/mi |
Which trim offers the best balance of cost and equipment? The breakdown below compares all 14 options side by side.
How Do the 2026 Hyundai Kona Trims Compare?
14 trims are available for the 2026 Hyundai Kona, spanning $25,500 to $34,150. All trims use a Gasoline powertrain. Compare specifications and estimated costs in the table below. Prices are MSRP before destination and fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Est. 5-Year Cost | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | $25,500 | 31 MPG | $1,400/yr | FWD | 147 hp | $83,895 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | $26,675 | 31 MPG | $1,400/yr | FWD | 147 hp | $85,070 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | $26,825 | 31 MPG | $1,400/yr | FWD | 147 hp | $85,220 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE AWD GAS | $27,000 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | AWD | 147 hp | $69,880 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | $28,175 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 147 hp | $87,570 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | $28,325 | 27 MPG | $1,600/yr | AWD | 147 hp | $87,720 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | $28,425 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 190 hp | $71,305 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | $28,550 | 28 MPG | $1,550/yr | FWD | 190 hp | $71,430 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | $29,925 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 190 hp | $89,820 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | $30,050 | 26 MPG | $1,700/yr | AWD | 190 hp | $89,945 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Show 4 more trim(s)
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The Hyundai Kona lineup has expanded from 8 trims in 2024 to 14 trims in 2026. The entry price has increased $1,250 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
- SEL Sport 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) (added 2026)
- SEL Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl CVT) (added 2026)
- SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) (added 2026)
- SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT) (added 2026)
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- Limited 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- Limited 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- Limited 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
- Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) (added 2026)
Trims no longer available
- SEL FWD GAS (last available 2025)
- SEL AWD GAS (last available 2025)
- N Line FWD GAS (last available 2025)
- Limited FWD GAS (last available 2025)
- N Line AWD GAS (last available 2025)
- Limited AWD GAS (last available 2025)
Price changes since 2024
- SE FWD GAS $24,250 (2024) → $25,500 (2026) +$1,250
- SE AWD GAS $25,750 (2024) → $27,000 (2026) +$1,250
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | $24,250 31 MPG | $24,550 31 MPG | $25,500 31 MPG |
| SEL FWD GAS | $25,600 31 MPG | $25,900 31 MPG | — |
| SE AWD GAS | $25,750 28 MPG | $26,050 28 MPG | $27,000 28 MPG |
| SEL AWD GAS | $27,100 28 MPG | $27,400 28 MPG | — |
| N Line FWD GAS | $30,800 28 MPG | $31,100 28 MPG | — |
| Limited FWD GAS | $31,800 28 MPG | $32,100 28 MPG | — |
| N Line AWD GAS | $32,300 26 MPG | $32,600 26 MPG | — |
| Limited AWD GAS | $33,300 26 MPG | $33,600 26 MPG | — |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | — | — | $26,675 31 MPG |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | — | — | $26,825 31 MPG |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | — | — | $28,175 27 MPG |
| SEL Sport 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT) | — | — | $28,325 27 MPG |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $28,425 28 MPG |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $28,550 28 MPG |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $29,925 26 MPG |
| SEL Premium 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 9/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $30,050 26 MPG |
| Limited 4dr SUV (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $32,535 28 MPG |
| Limited 4dr SUV w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $32,650 28 MPG |
| Limited 4dr SUV AWD (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $34,035 26 MPG |
| Limited 4dr SUV AWD w/Prod. End 12/25 (1.6L 4cyl Turbo 8A) | — | — | $34,150 26 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
After narrowing down a trim, it helps to check the broader reliability picture. The section below summarizes the third-party reliability rating we have on file.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona scores 4.0 out of 5.0 on RepairPal's reliability index, above the average for value SUVs. RepairPal data reflects repair frequency and severity from shops nationwide. Source: RepairPal.
Warranty coverage sets the floor for what the manufacturer will repair at no cost. Here are Hyundai's published terms.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Hyundai Kona Come With?
Hyundai provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Kona. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited |
What Are the 2026 Hyundai Kona Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Hyundai Kona as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 2L I4, 1.6L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 147 - 190 hp |
| Torque | 132 - 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic, 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 - 13.2 gal |
| Length | 171.3 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 71.9 in |
| Height | 62.2 - 63.6 in |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 in |
What Changed for the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
- Number of available trims changed
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
- Recall status changed
This page reflects the most recently published data from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references for the 2026 Hyundai Kona. When source agencies release updates, this page regenerates automatically. Our methodology page explains how data is collected, verified, and presented.
2026 Hyundai Kona FAQ
How does the 2026 Hyundai Kona compare to other suvs?
Based on published data, the 2026 Hyundai Kona has a safety grade of B, a fuel cost grade of A, a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5, and only 2 recalls on file. These grades compare it against similar suvs in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Which 2026 Hyundai Kona trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 14 available trims, the SE AWD GAS has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $69,880, starting at $27,000 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $94,045. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Kona insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Subcompact SUV class at $1,726 per year, or about $144 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Hyundai Kona. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Kona maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Subcompact SUV class at $1,746 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,726/yr) and depreciation ($3,554/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $10,279 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Hyundai Kona depreciate?
AAA estimates the Subcompact SUV class depreciates about $3,554 per year, or roughly $17,770 over five years. On a base MSRP of $25,500, that represents about 70% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Hyundai Kona?
The most efficient 2026 Hyundai Kona trim costs an estimated $1,400 per year in fuel, or about $117 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. See our Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Hyundai Kona include 2026 Buick Encore GX, 2026 Mazda CX-30, and 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 SUVs.
What changed on the 2026 Hyundai Kona from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 12 new trims were added, 6 trims were dropped, and the entry price increased by $1,250 for the Hyundai Kona lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Hyundai Kona cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Hyundai Kona include about $857 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $117 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $974 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Are there any reported problems with the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
NHTSA has 3 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Hyundai Kona. The most-reported problem area is Fuel System. Owner complaints are self-reported to NHTSA and are not verified, but patterns across many reports can reveal real issues. See our Most Owner Complaints: SUVs for 2026 list. Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.