Model Range Reduction
The Kona Electric is not considered innovative enough to join the Ioniq family, and Hyundai appears to be turning away from the affordable electric vehicle. This has a devastating impact, as the 2026 model year has been significantly reduced.
Change Details
Although Hyundai has only released a few initial details, most of the model range is being discontinued. As part of these changes, the SEL, Limited, and N Line trims will no longer be available. This means the only surviving version is the base Kona Electric SE, which will be offered exclusively with the standard battery.
Hyundai Kona EV gets a special version for outdoor enthusiasts in Japan
Technical Specifications
The manufacturer has not yet released specifications for the 2026 model year, but they are likely to remain unchanged compared to last year. This means the SE will have an inefficient 48.6 kWh battery that provides only 200 miles of range. This is 103 miles less than the 2026 Nissan Leaf, which costs $2,985 less than the 2025 Kona Electric.
Power and Charging
As for the powertrain, the model is likely to use the familiar front-mounted motor with 133 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque. Combined with the slow DC fast charging speed of 100 kW, the Kona seems more like a compliance car than a modern electric vehicle.
Competition and Prospects
This could lead to negative consequences, especially given the emergence of the Nissan Leaf and the updated Chevrolet Bolt. However, the 2026 Kona Electric has a ‘larger tray in the center console,’ which might be a small advantage.
The reduction in Kona Electric options may indicate a shift in Hyundai’s priorities towards more advanced models like the Ioniq. It also highlights a general market trend where buyers are increasingly focusing on electric vehicles with longer range and competitive prices. Perhaps the manufacturer is preparing new models that will replace the Kona Electric in the future.