2026 Hyundai Kona Limited vs 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir
35 more hp and 21 more lb-ft torque vs $1,150 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 155 hp, 26 vs 27 MPG.
The Kona Limited leads on 35 more hp, 21 more lb-ft torque. The Encore GX Avenir leads on $1,150 less. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited | 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,150 | $33,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.6L I4 Turbo | 1.3L I3 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 155 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 174 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,255 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 102.0" |
| Length | 171.3" | 171.2" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.4" |
| Height | 63.6" | 65.2" |
| 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 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir starts at $33,000, $1,150 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited at $34,150. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $20/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited is the stronger pick when the extra 35 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $59/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir rates 27 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited or 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited produces 190 hp, 35 more than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir at 155 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 174 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited bigger than the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited is 0.1″ longer at 171.3″ vs 171.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited 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
Kona vs Encore GX: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited and 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-1,150 gap is about $20/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited runs a 1.6L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited has 35 more hp (190 vs 155), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Kona vs Encore GX
The 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir saves roughly $59/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $295.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited when the extra 35 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir when you want to keep $1,150 in your pocket and the 2026 Buick Encore GX Avenir 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 Buick or any dealership.