Hyundai is preparing a major product offensive for 2026, with a mix of all-new models, full generational changes, and strategic facelifts across its global lineup. From electric MPVs to redesigned sedans and SUVs, the brand’s 2026 roadmap signals a strong push toward electrification, design evolution, and market-specific launches. Based on Hyundai’s confirmed launch calendar, here is a detailed breakdown of what to expect from Hyundai’s 2026 new car lineup, including timelines, expected changes, and market positioning.
Hyundai Staria Electric – World Premiere in Early 2026
- Model Type: New Car
- Launch Timing: First half of 2026
- Debut Event: January 9, 2026 – Brussels Auto Show
The most significant debut in Hyundai’s early-2026 lineup is the Staria Electric, marking the full electrification of Hyundai’s futuristic MPV.
What to Expect
- Fully electric powertrain tailored for global markets
- Focus on family, shuttle, and commercial EV use
- Built on Hyundai’s dedicated EV architecture with 800V. Expected battery size between 84-90 kWh.
- Advanced driver assistance, new steering wheel design and updated infotainment
The Brussels Auto Show debut signals Hyundai’s intent to position the Staria Electric as a global electric people mover, particularly appealing to European and urban markets prioritizing zero-emission transport.
Hyundai Grandeur Facelift – Luxury Sedan Update Mid-2026
- Model Type: Partial Change (Facelift)
- Launch Timing: First half of 2026
- Expected Month: May
Hyundai’s flagship sedan, the Grandeur, will receive a mid-cycle update in the first half of 2026. While not a full redesign, the facelift is expected to refine the model’s premium appeal.
The expected look of Grandeur facelift thanks to our colleagues at Gotcha Cars
Expected Updates
- Revised front and rear design elements
- Updated interior materials and the addition of Pleos, we recently captured it.
- Enhanced comfort and safety technologies
- Possible powertrain efficiency improvements
The Grandeur facelift will help Hyundai maintain competitiveness in the large sedan segment, especially in markets where comfort and luxury remain strong buying factors.
All-New Hyundai Avante – Full Model Change in Late 2026
- Model Type: Complete Change (New Generation)
- Launch Timing: Second half of 2026
- Expected Month: September
The Hyundai Avante (also known as Elantra in some markets) is scheduled for a full generational redesign in the second half of 2026.
What the New Avante May Bring
- Completely new exterior and interior design
- Improved platform with better ride and handling
- Expanded hybrid or electrified options
- More advanced connectivity and driver-assist systems, with the addition of Pleos Connect.
This complete change positions the Avante as a more technologically advanced and design-focused compact sedan, aimed at younger buyers and global markets.
Next-gen Elantra & Tucson expected look thanks to our colleagues at Gotcha Cars
Next-Generation Hyundai Tucson – Global Rollout Begins in 2026
- Model Type: Complete Change (New Generation)
- Launch Timing: Second half of 2026
- Korea Launch: August
- U.S. Debut: LA Auto Show – November (expected)
One of Hyundai’s most important global models, the Hyundai Tucson, will enter a new generation in 2026.
Key Expectations
- Bold new exterior design language
- Redesigned interior with with the addition of Pleos Connect.
- Expanded hybrid and plug-in hybrid options
- Improved safety and autonomous features
- For the first time ever, it will have a high performance N version in 2027.
The staggered launch—starting in Korea and extending to the U.S. market via the LA Auto Show—highlights Tucson’s importance as a core global SUV.
The expected look of Santa Fe facelift thanks to our colleagues at Gotcha Cars
Hyundai Santa Fe Facelift – Refined Family SUV for Late 2026
- Model Type: Partial Change (Facelift)
- Launch Timing: Second half of 2026
- Expected Month: October
The Hyundai Santa Fe will receive a facelift rather than a full redesign, focusing on refinement rather than reinvention.
Anticipated Changes
- Big exterior styling updates
- Interior technology and usability improvements, new interior layout with Pleos centered screen and small cluster behind the wheel.
- Enhanced safety and convenience features
- Minor powertrain optimizations, ditching DCT transmission problems.
The Santa Fe facelift is expected to strengthen Hyundai’s position in the mid-size SUV segment, particularly for family-focused buyers.
Final Thoughts: Hyundai’s Strategic 2026 Push
Hyundai’s 2026 new car lineup reflects a balanced strategy:
- Electrification leadership with the Staria Electric
- Core model renewals for Avante and Tucson
- Premium and family-oriented refinements for Grandeur and Santa Fe
With carefully timed global debuts and region-specific launches, Hyundai is positioning itself strongly for 2026 across EVs, sedans, and SUVs.
