2025 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Hyundai Kona SE

On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE wins on $950 less. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $950 price gap, 147 vs 147 hp, 28 vs 28 MPG.

The short answer

The Kona SE leads on $950 less. The spec table compares 0 specifications head to head.

$950
Price Gap
Same
HP Diff
Same
Efficiency Diff
Lower price
2025 Hyundai Kona SE
Starts at $26,050
VS
Higher price
2026 Hyundai Kona SE
Starts at $27,000

What's Actually Different

These two vehicles differ in 0 specifications.

MSRP
$26,050Kona SE
$27,000Kona SE

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.

Spec2025 Hyundai Kona SE2026 Hyundai Kona SE
Pricing
MSRP$26,050$27,000
Powertrain
Engine2.0L I42.0L I4
Horsepower147 hp147 hp
Torque132 lb-ft132 lb-ft
Transmissioncontinuously variable-speed automaticcontinuously variable-speed automatic
DrivetrainAWDAWD
Fuel Economy
City MPG2727
Highway MPG2929
Combined MPG2828
Fuel Tank12.4 gal12.4 gal
Dimensions
Curb Weight3,203 lbsNo published data
Wheelbase104.7"104.7"
Length171.3"171.3"
Width71.9"71.9"
Height63.2"63.2"
Safety
NHTSA Overall4/5 stars4/5 stars
IIHS AwardTSP+TSP+
Warranty
Bumper-to-Bumper5yr/60k5yr/60k
Powertrain10yr/100k10yr/100k
Corrosion7yr/unlimited7yr/unlimited
Roadside Assistance5yr/unlimited5yr/unlimited

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?

The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE starts at $26,050, $950 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $16/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 $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs.

Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?

The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.

Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?

Both achieve 28 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.

Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?

Both produce 147 hp.

Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?

Both measure 171.3″ in overall length.

Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims

Official sources

How the Kona and Kona Stack Up

Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE ($26,050) and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE ($27,000) solve similar problems in different ways. The $950 gap is about $16/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.

Powertrain: Kona vs Kona

Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. Both produce 147 hp. Both use AWD.

What It Actually Costs to Own

Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.

Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE when you want to keep $950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $16/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 any dealership.

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