2025 Chevrolet Trax LS vs 2026 Hyundai Kona SE
On paper, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS wins on $6,500 less, 2 MPG better, 30 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $6,500 price gap, 137 vs 147 hp, 30 vs 28 MPG.
The Trax LS leads on $6,500 less, 2 MPG better. The Kona SE leads on AWD. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $20,500 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 137 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 162 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 32 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Wheelbase | 106.0" | 104.7" |
| Length | 178.6" | 171.3" |
| Width | 71.8" | 71.9" |
| Height | 61.4" | 63.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 6yr/100k | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS starts at $20,500, $6,500 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $114/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS?
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS rates 30 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE produces 147 hp, 10 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS at 137 hp. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS also leads in torque at 162 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS, AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE.
Is the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS is 7.3″ longer at 178.6″ vs 171.3″. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS has a 1.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE comes with AWD, while the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Chevrolet Trax comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Kona offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Trax trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims
- 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Trax vs Kona: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE sit in the compact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $6,500 gap adds up to $114/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS runs a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 10 hp difference (147 vs 137) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS adds 30 more lb-ft of torque (162 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE comes with AWD; the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Trax vs Kona
The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500. The 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS when you want to keep $6,500 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Trax LS covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. At $114/month more, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Chevrolet or Hyundai or any dealership.