Hyundai's Next-Gen Kona Skips Refresh, Debuts Boxier
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- Hyundai is skipping a mid-cycle refresh and developing an entirely new third-generation Kona, with camouflaged test vehicles already spotted in the US, Europe, and South Korea.
- The redesigned Kona features a wider, boxier, and more angular look than the current model, sharing styling cues with the new Santa Fe, Palisade, and Tucson.
- The next-gen Kona bears a strong resemblance to Hyundai's Crater Concept, the rugged off-road SUV unveiled at the LA Auto Show in November that showcased the next evolution of XRT vehicles.
- Hyundai's new Pleos Connect infotainment system — featuring apps, customizable screens, and an AI companion — is expected to debut in the next-gen Kona.
- The third-generation Kona is expected to officially debut by the end of 2026 and launch in 2027 as a 2028 model year, retaining pure electric, hybrid, and gas powertrain options.
Why it matters: Hyundai buyers gain a more rugged, XRT-styled subcompact SUV by late 2026, while the current three-and-a-half-year-old Kona faces another 18 months on sale. The Crater Concept styling signals Hyundai expanding its rugged XRT branding beyond the IONIQ 5 XRT.
