
The Hyundai Kona has been a popular choice among compact SUV buyers, and it's a hot seller here at Dean Team Hyundai in Ballwin. For the 2026 model year, the Kona receives some exciting updates and enhancements while still retaining the core appeal that has made it so successful. Let's take a closer look at what's new in the 2026 Hyundai Kona compared to the outgoing 2025 model.
Exterior Design Refresh
The 2026 Hyundai Kona features a bold new look that's sure to turn heads as you cruise the streets of St Louis. The front fascia has been completely redesigned, with a more aggressive grille, sleek LED headlights, and updated bumper styling. New wheel designs range from 17 to 19 inches and complement the athletic stance of the Hyundai Kona. Around back, you'll find restyled taillights and a new rear bumper that emphasizes the width and stability of the Hyundai Kona.
Upgraded Interior Experience
Step inside the 2026 Hyundai Kona and you'll immediately notice a more refined and technologically advanced cabin. The dashboard has been completely overhauled, with a new 10.3-inch infotainment display seamlessly integrated into the modern design. Upgraded materials create a premium look and feel throughout the interior. To get a true sense of the Kona's all-around excellence, schedule a test drive at our Dean Team Hyundai dealership in St Peters and experience it for yourself.
Enhanced Performance and Efficiency
The 2026 Hyundai Kona offers an updated powertrain lineup focused on responsive performance and impressive efficiency. The standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine now produces 147 horsepower, while the available turbocharged 1.6-liter engine cranks out 195 horsepower. Both engines are paired with a smooth-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for engaging driving dynamics. You'll love zipping around the roads of Hazelwood in your new Hyundai Kona.
Cutting-Edge Safety Technology
The 2026 Hyundai Kona offers expanded driver assistance and safety features to provide enhanced peace of mind for you and your loved ones. All Kona models now come standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and a driver attention monitor. Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert use radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots or approaching from the side while backing up. Eureka families can feel confident knowing the Kona is watching out for them.
Diverse Trim Level Lineup
With five well-equipped trim levels, the 2026 Hyundai Kona offers something for every type of buyer. The base SE trim comes nicely appointed with essential features, while the Hyundai Kona SEL adds comfort and convenience amenities like heated front seats and push-button start. Stepping up to the sporty Hyundai Kona N Line rewards you with racy design elements inside and out. The luxurious Limited trim pampers occupants with leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, and a premium sound system. At the top of the range, the Ultimate trim comes fully loaded with every available feature. Visit your local Dean Team Hyundai dealership to explore the perfect Hyundai Kona trim for your lifestyle and budget.
Discover the 2026 Hyundai Kona in St. Louis
The 2026 Hyundai Kona improves upon an already stellar subcompact SUV with its refreshed design, upgraded interior, enhanced performance, advanced safety features, and diverse trim lineup. While the changes are more evolutionary than revolutionary compared to the 2025 model, they help keep the Hyundai Kona at the forefront of its segment. If you're in the St Louis area, visit Dean Team Hyundai with locations in Ballwin, St Peters, Hazelwood, and Eureka to experience the new 2026 Hyundai Kona for yourself. Our friendly team looks forward to putting you behind the wheel of this outstanding subcompact SUV.