Hyundai’s Cheapest EV Takes a Break as Kona Electric Skips 2026

Hyundai has confirmed that the Kona Electric will skip the 2026 model year in the United States, with production of U.S.-spec vehicles temporarily paused amid weak demand and ample dealer inventory.

Hyundai pauses Kona Electric production for U.S. market

Hyundai confirmed to Car and Driver that it has halted U.S.-spec production of the Kona Electric at its South Korean factory, meaning the brand’s most affordable EV will not be offered as a 2026 model in the U.S.

According to a Hyundai spokesperson, the decision was driven by existing inventory levels rather than a permanent product cancellation. “There is an adequate stock of the 2025 model year Kona Electric to manage consumer demand for the model at this time,” the spokesperson said.

Sales data helps explain the pause. Hyundai sold an estimated 3,011 Kona Electric vehicles in the U.S. last year, a 41% decline compared to 2024, according to Cox Automotive. Hyundai does not break out Kona Electric sales separately in its official reporting.

Kona Electric set to return for 2027

Despite the hiatus, Hyundai said the Kona Electric is not being discontinued. Production is expected to resume in June, with the vehicle returning as a 2027 model year offering, according to InsideEVs.

Hyundai had previously unveiled a 2026 Kona Electric as a carryover model with minimal changes, including just one trim level equipped with the smallest battery option and a minor interior update. That plan has now been shelved.

The current 2025 Kona Electric remains available in SE, SEL, N Line, and Limited trims. Buyers can choose between a 48.6 kWh battery with an EPA-estimated range of 200 miles or a larger 64.8 kWh pack rated for up to 261 miles. Output ranges from 133 horsepower in base form to 201 horsepower with the larger battery.

Hyundai’s move reflects a broader reassessment underway across the industry, as automakers scale back or delay EV programs amid slowing demand, rising costs, and shifting regulatory pressure in the U.S. market.

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