2025 Hyundai Kona SEL vs 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium
$2,650 less and 2 mpg better vs 43 more hp and 63 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,650 price gap, 147 vs 190 hp, 28 vs 26 MPG.
The Kona SEL leads on $2,650 less, 2 MPG better. The Kona SEL Premium leads on 43 more hp, 63 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 SEL | 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,400 | $30,050 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.6L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,241 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.7" |
| Length | 171.3" | 171.3" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL and 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL starts at $27,400, $2,650 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium at $30,050. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $46/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,650 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $115/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium is the stronger pick when the extra 43 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL or 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL rates 28 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL or 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium produces 190 hp, 43 more than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL at 147 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium?
Both measure 171.3″ in overall length.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims
Kona vs Kona: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL and 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,650 gap is about $46/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium has 43 more hp (190 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium adds 63 more lb-ft of torque (195 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kona vs Kona
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL saves roughly $115/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $575. The 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL when you want to keep $2,650 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Premium when the extra 43 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $46/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.