The cabin of the 2023–present Hyundai Kona prioritizes technology and user-friendliness, with a strong focus on large digital displays and trim-specific materials. The Kona interior delivers noticeably more space than its predecessor, tuned to suit American buyer preferences. Below is a breakdown of the key interior highlights for the US market, where the model is sold through official Hyundai dealerships nationwide.
Overall Cabin Overview
The Hyundai Kona SX2 interior adopts a clean, modern aesthetic featuring strong horizontal lines and seamless screen integration. Upper sections of the dashboard and doors use soft-touch plastics, with aluminum-look or carbon-style accents on higher trims. Entry-level versions rely on durable hard plastics that hold up well to daily use but feel less upscale. Build quality remains solid with tight panel gaps, though some owners report minor creaks in lower areas after extended mileage.
The driver-oriented dashboard centers around a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster fused with an equally sized central touchscreen, creating one continuous display surface. The center console features touch-sensitive climate controls alongside physical volume knobs, plus generous storage cubbies. Driver ergonomics benefit from a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, supportive seats, and available power adjustments.
Front occupants enjoy comfortable seating with ample headroom and legroom for drivers up to about 6'1". The rear bench comfortably fits two adults, thanks to the 104.7-inch wheelbase providing decent knee clearance, though three adults will find it snug due to seat shaping. The 60:40 split-folding rear seats expand cargo flexibility. Trunk volume stands at 25.5 cubic feet (expanding to 63.7 cubic feet with seats folded), offering a flat load floor and interior access. Everyday practicality shines with USB-C ports, available wireless charging, and cupholders. The cabin suits daily commuting and highway drives across varied US road conditions.
Trim Levels and Features in the US Market
In the United States, the Hyundai Kona SX2 is offered in trims such as SE (base), SEL (mid-level comfort), N Line (sport-oriented), and Limited (premium). These configurations reflect strong demand for tech-loaded models, automatic transmissions, and available all-wheel drive. Dealerships provide vehicles adapted for diverse climates, with many options sourced from North American production.
The base SE trim comes with cloth upholstery, manual air conditioning, an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a core suite of safety features (ABS, ESC, multiple airbags). Single-zone climate control includes heated mirrors suited to colder regions.
The popular SEL trim upgrades to dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats and steering wheel, rearview camera, auto headlights and wipers, a 12.3-inch multimedia display with available navigation and Bluelink connectivity. Upholstery mixes cloth and eco-leather accents. Driver aids include blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist.
Higher-end Limited trim adds leather-trimmed seats, LED lighting, keyless entry and start, surround-view camera, power driver’s seat, adaptive cruise control. Options often include a panoramic sunroof and heated rear seats. The N Line brings sport seats with unique stitching, aluminum pedals, and performance styling accents throughout the cabin.
Notable for the US: many trims include cold-weather features like heated steering wheel and mirrors, while AWD and sunroof availability varies by region and trim. Approximate market pricing: SE from $25,000–$27,000, Limited up to $32,000–$35,000 (MSRP; actual prices vary by region, options, and dealer).
| Trim Level | Key Interior Features | Approx. Market Price Range (USD) |
| SE | Cloth seats, manual A/C, 8" touchscreen, core safety suite | $25,000–$27,000 |
| SEL | Cloth + eco-leather, dual-zone climate, heated seats/wheel, 12.3" display | $27,000–$30,000 |
| N Line / Limited | Sport or leather seats, ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, premium audio | $30,000–$35,000 |
Interior Updates by Year
Since launch in 2023, the SX2 generation has seen incremental improvements rather than a full redesign. Early 2023 models featured standard materials and smaller 8–10.25-inch screens in base trims, along with baseline sound insulation.
By 2024–2026, updates included USB-C ports front and rear, enhanced wheel-arch insulation, fresh upholstery colors (gray, beige), and refined multimedia software for better responsiveness. Hybrid variants gained clearer battery-status indicators. Some later builds switched back to physical climate buttons for improved usability.
Current highlights: dual 12.3-inch screens with wireless connectivity, ambient Mood Lighting. Older 2023 examples with smaller screens and fewer USB-C ports now appear dated.
Common Owner Feedback and Cabin Drawbacks
US owners frequently mention wear on lower hard plastics (scratches, scuffs) and door panel rub after 20,000–30,000 miles. Creaks in doors and console can appear on rough roads or in very cold weather due to average insulation levels.
Rear seating works well for two but feels tight for three. Thick pillars and body shape limit visibility in tight urban parking or traffic. Light interiors show dirt from road salt in winter regions, while dark cabins heat up quickly in summer sun. On the growing used market, early examples may show faster wear from inconsistent maintenance. US climate extremes (heat, cold, road salt) call for regular detailing and protective treatments.
Final Thoughts on Cabin Relevance
In 2026 the Hyundai Kona SX2 interior stays competitive thanks to recent updates like expanded USB-C coverage and better noise suppression. It delivers the tech and room expected from a modern B-SUV.
For most buyers, SEL or Limited trims strike the best balance of features without excessive cost. The premium for top trims makes sense for warranty coverage and latest refinements; gently used 2023–2024 models can offer strong value under $28,000.
When shopping new, prioritize ventilation and advanced aids if desired. For pre-owned, inspect insulation quality, plastic condition, absence of rattles, and full service records.
