2025 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred
$1,850 less vs 42 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,850 price gap, 147 vs 155 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Kona SE leads on $1,850 less. The Encore GX Preferred leads on 42 more lb-ft torque. 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 Hyundai Kona SE | 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,050 | $27,900 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,203 lbs | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 102.0" |
| Length | 171.3" | 171.2" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 63.2" | 64.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE starts at $26,050, $1,850 less than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred at $27,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $32/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,850 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred is the stronger pick when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred produces 155 hp, 8 more than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE is 0.1″ longer at 171.3″ vs 171.2″. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE has a 2.7″ 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 Buick Encore GX 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, Buick trims, Buick Encore GX trims
How the Kona and Encore GX Stack Up
Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE ($26,050) and 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred ($27,900) solve similar problems in different ways. The $1,850 gap is about $32/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Kona vs Encore GX
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 8 hp difference (155 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred adds 42 more lb-ft of torque (174 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE when you want to keep $1,850 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Preferred when you prefer the Buick approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $32/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Buick or any dealership.