Hyundai has decided to forego a planned facelift for its popular Kona SUV, opting instead to accelerate the launch of the next generation model, the SX3, expected in 2028. This decision marks a significant shift in the company’s product development strategy, particularly for its best-selling model in Australia.
Reports from The Korean Car Blog indicate that the automaker will not introduce any further updates to the current ‘SX2’ Kona small SUV. Since its debut in Australia in 2023, the Kona has quickly risen to prominence, becoming the best-selling vehicle for Hyundai Australia in 2025. It also maintained its position as the leading small SUV, outperforming rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Cross and Nissan Qashqai.
As industry trends typically suggest a facelift around three years after a vehicle’s launch, many anticipated updates for the Kona around 2026. However, the cancellation of the facelift underscores Hyundai’s new timeline. The company has chosen to focus its resources on the SX3, which is expected to feature a more robust and angular design. Spy images sourced from Shorts Car reveal that the new model will diverge from the softer curves of its predecessor, aligning more closely with the aggressive styling showcased in the 2025 Hyundai Crater Concept presented at the Los Angeles Motor Show.
The SX3 is expected to incorporate several elements from the Crater Concept, including a sloping roofline, revised door handles, side skirts, and an integrated roof spoiler. Hyundai’s evolving design language, known as the Art of Steel, will also influence the upcoming Kona, as evidenced by similar design cues seen in the refreshed 2027 Tucson and the entry-level Venue SUV.
In terms of technological upgrades, the interior of the new Kona is likely to feature the Hyundai Motor Group’s new Pleos Connect infotainment system. The powertrain options are anticipated to include electric, hybrid, and petrol variants, consistent with the existing Australian Kona lineup. There remains speculation about the potential introduction of an extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variant, as Hyundai moves towards broader adoption of this technology across its brands, including luxury segment Genesis.
Hyundai is committed to a comprehensive strategy to expand its vehicle offerings, with plans to launch over 18 hybrid models across both Hyundai and Genesis brands by 2030. The company is also looking to enhance its N performance range and introduce a mid-size pickup for the North American market, with Australia potentially included in those plans.
The Hyundai Motor Company has set an ambitious target of achieving 5.55 million global sales by 2030. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, Hyundai’s strategic decisions reflect its commitment to innovation and market leadership.
