Hyundai has announced what’s new for 2026. These include minor updates, such as new interior and exterior colors, to major ones, like a reshuffled lineup and revised powertrains. From the Venue to the fire-breathing Ioniq 5 N, there’s an update, but the biggest ones are on key models.
Hyundai SUVs and Trucks
The biggest update is in the Santa Fe SUV and Santa Cruz pickup. The gas variants of both vehicles swap the 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission for a conventional torque converter unit with the same number of gears. Meanwhile, the Santa Fe Hybrid gains a new base SE trim as the entry point to the lineup. On the other hand, the Santa Cruz XRT gains a Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand settings.
Going one size down to the Tucson, Hyundai increased the maximum towing capacity of gas models to 2,750 pounds. A new Blue SE trim joins the hybrid lineup, while the Blue variant is now called SEL. The N Line model has been discontinued. The Tucson XRT also gains the Terrain mode that the Santa Cruz got. All Hyundai models with a plug now include a standard Level 1/2 combo portable charging cable. Every Ioniq 5 model includes the NACS charging port, with the N model finally receiving it. The Ioniq 5 N also receives a 10-stage N Drift Optimizer Pro system.
At the entry level, the Kona sees a reduced trim lineup. The SEL Sport and SEL Premium join the range-topping Limited. Hyundai also discontinued the N Line model in the Kona. Meanwhile, the Kona Electric goes down to just a single SE variant powered by the smaller standard range battery. On the other hand, the smaller Venue loses the Limited trim, making the SEL the new range-topper.
Carryover Sedans
Hyundai’s sedans head into 2026 largely uncharged. The Elantra receives a new SEL Sport Premium trim, while the Sonata regains the Blue trim for the hybrid variant and adds the SEL Sport for its gas models.
The Ioniq 6 sees the biggest changes with the addition of the N model. Its more pedestrian variants also see big upgrades, including a new battery pack, likely the same 84-kWh unit found in the Ioniq 5.’
Source: The Automaker
