The 2026 Hyundai KONA has landed with a sharper look, a reshuffled lineup, and a price tag starting at $32,700 (MLP). Australia’s best-selling small SUV range just got a lot more appealing, with Hyundai simplifying the choices while dialling up the comfort, tech, and flair—because who said compact had to mean basic?

Gone is the old 1.6 T-GDi AWD powertrain (RIP, performance fans), but in its place comes a streamlined duo: a zippy 2.0 MPi Petrol and a fuel-sipping 1.6 GDi Hybrid. And smack-bang in the middle of the refreshed three-tier trim structure sits the all-new KONA Elite, finally giving buyers a chic, leather-lined stepping stone between the humble base model and the fully-loaded Premium.

The Elite brings some serious heat: leather-appointed, heated and power-adjusted front seats, a slick Shift-by-Wire gear selector with paddle shifters, rain-sensing wipers, 18-inch alloys, and privacy glass. Basically, it’s everything a KONA buyer didn’t know they needed until now.

The KONA Premium now comes standard with a wide glass sunroof and power sunshade, perfect for sun-seekers and lovers of golden-hour selfies. For those craving some visual spice without going full N, there’s the N Line option pack, now available on both Elite and Premium trims, injecting a splash of hot-hatch drama into this otherwise well-behaved SUV.

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ABOVE: 2026 Hyundai Kona

Meanwhile, the entry-level KONA has ditched its previous 18-inch shoes for a slightly more comfort-focused 17-inch alloy wheel, and no longer offers the N Line pack—she’s practical, not flashy.

CEO Don Romano is confident the rejigged KONA lineup will strike gold again:

“KONA is the market-leading small SUV and we are confident the 2026 range will deliver even better value and choice to Australian buyers.”

And let’s be honest—he’s probably right. The KONA’s had a firm grip on the small SUV market, and with this new range offering more choice, more comfort, and a dash more style, it’s clear Hyundai’s not about to let go.

For inner-city gays, small families, and empty nesters who like a bit of flair with their function, the new 2026 KONA might just be the best-dressed option in the SUV playground.

Powertrain Transmission KONA KONA Elite KONA Premium
2.0 MPi CVT $32,700 $35,700 $41,700
1.6 GDi Hybrid 6 speed dual clutch $36,700 $39,700 $45,700

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