Jones Bel Air Hyundai - Is HTRAC All Wheel Drive on the 2026 Hyundai Kona a Smart Choice for Baltimore, MD Drivers?
For many Baltimore-area drivers, the choice between front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive comes down to year-round practicality. The 2026 Hyundai Kona offers available HTRAC All Wheel Drive across the lineup, bringing an extra measure of control for rain, slush, and the occasional snow day without taking away the small-SUV agility that makes Kona so easy to live with.
HTRAC continuously monitors wheel slip and driver inputs, sending power to where it’s needed for better traction off the line and more composed cornering on slick surfaces. Pair it with the available 190-hp 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder and 8-speed automatic transmission, and Kona delivers brisk confidence in city traffic and on I-95 merges. It is not just about winter peace of mind—HTRAC can also smooth out gravel paths to trailheads, damp medians during sudden storms, and paint-striped intersections after rain. The system works in the background to balance stability and responsiveness, so you feel supported, not managed.
Inside, Kona’s technology helps you drive smarter in any weather. Standard Smart Cruise Control (SCC) with Stop & Go takes the edge off heavy traffic, while Lane Following Assist and Lane Keeping Assist help you stay centered on long stretches. If you upgrade to Limited, Highway Driving Assist (HDA) and Surround View Monitor (SVM) enhance long-distance comfort and low-speed awareness. The available 12.3-inch touchscreen display with navigation and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster present your information clearly, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keep your maps and messages front and center. With Wi-Fi hotspot capability and Bluelink+ services, you can leave the tangle of cables at home and stay connected naturally.
Beyond traction, everyday convenience sets the Kona apart. The available hands-free smart liftgate with auto open makes loading groceries or sports gear easier when your hands are full, and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) adds confidence in tight city lots by letting Kona pull into or back out of a space while you guide it with the Smart Key. Add Hyundai Digital Key 2 Touch, and your compatible smartphone becomes your key—unlock, start, and even share access without a physical fob.
Choosing HTRAC comes down to how and where you drive. If your routine includes early-morning commutes in damp conditions, weekend trips that take you off the main roads, or an annual brush with snow and ice, HTRAC is a helpful addition. If you primarily drive in dry conditions and want the simplest setup, front-wheel drive still provides a controlled, comfortable experience. Either way, Kona’s chassis tuning makes it composed and nimble, which means you benefit from Hyundai’s careful calibration in every scenario.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does HTRAC All Wheel Drive change ground clearance or cargo space?
HTRAC focuses on traction and power distribution and does not meaningfully affect your day-to-day utility. Kona remains easy to load with a flexible cargo area and 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
Which trims can I pair with HTRAC?
HTRAC All Wheel Drive is available across the Kona lineup. Our team can show you how FWD and HTRAC variants of trims like SEL Premium and Limited differ on the road, so you can make an informed choice.
Will HTRAC help in heavy snow?
HTRAC improves traction and stability, which is valuable on lightly snow-covered roads, but safe winter driving still depends on speed, driver inputs, and your choice of tires. We recommend winter-rated tires if you expect frequent snow and ice.
What other features support all-weather driving?
Helpful systems include High Beam Assist (HBA) for nighttime visibility, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) for backing out in low-visibility conditions, and heated front seats available on several trims.
When you are ready to compare FWD and HTRAC back-to-back, schedule a test drive and bring your real-world questions. We will map a route that includes stop-and-go traffic, a mix of surfaces, and highway stretches, so you can feel how Kona behaves where it matters most—on your daily roads. Jones Bel Air Hyundai is serving Glen Burnie, Baltimore, and Perry Hall with friendly expertise and a simple, guided process. From pairing your phone to demonstrating Hyundai SmartSense, we will make sure you leave with answers and confidence in your choice. If you want traction that works quietly in the background and a tech-forward cockpit that helps you stay focused, Kona with HTRAC makes a strong case for Baltimore, MD drivers seeking a just-right balance of control and comfort.
Visit our showroom to explore trim options, ask about the available 190-hp turbo engine, and test advanced features like Surround View Monitor (SVM) and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA). With thoughtful ergonomics, flexible cargo solutions, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies, Kona is built to support your life in all seasons—rain or shine.
