2025 Hyundai Kona Limited vs 2026 Nissan Kicks SR
49 more hp and 55 more lb-ft torque vs $5,440 less and 4 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 141 hp, 26 vs 30 MPG.
The Kona Limited leads on 49 more hp, 55 more lb-ft torque. The Kicks SR leads on $5,440 less, 4 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Hyundai Kona Limited | 2026 Nissan Kicks SR |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $33,600 | $28,160 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L I4 Turbo | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 140 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 34 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 30 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | $1,450/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,505 lbs | 3,253 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.9" |
| Length | 171.3" | 171.9" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.9" |
| Height | 63.6" | 64.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR starts at $28,160, $5,440 less than the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited at $33,600. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $96/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited is the stronger pick when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,440 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $215/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR rates 30 combined MPG, 4 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited produces 190 hp, 49 more than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR at 141 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 140 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited bigger than the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR?
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR is 0.6″ longer at 171.9″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR has a 0.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Kona comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Nissan Kicks offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims, Nissan trims, Nissan Kicks trims
- 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Nissan Kicks SR Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Kona–Kicks Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Kona and Kicks compare. The $-5,440 gap adds up to $96/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR uses a 2.0L I4. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited has 49 more hp (190 vs 141), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited adds 55 more lb-ft of torque (195 vs 140), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Nissan Kicks SR saves roughly $215/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,075.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona Limited when the extra 49 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR when you want to keep $5,440 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Kicks SR covers your needs.
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 Hyundai or Nissan or any dealership.