2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS
On paper, the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS wins on $2,000 less, 42 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 147 vs 155 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Trailblazer LS leads on $2,000 less, 42 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 | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE | 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $25,000 |
| 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 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,252 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.0" |
| Length | 171.3" | 174.1" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.2" |
| Height | 63.2" | 64.7" |
| 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 SE and 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS starts at $25,000, $2,000 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $35/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS produces 155 hp, 8 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS also leads in torque at 174 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS is 2.8″ longer at 174.1″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has a 0.7″ 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 Chevrolet Trailblazer 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, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Trailblazer trims
The Kona–Trailblazer Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Kona and Trailblazer compare. The $-2,000 gap is about $35/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS uses a 1.3L I3 Turbo. The 8 hp difference (155 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS adds 42 more lb-ft of torque (174 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS when you want to keep $2,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trailblazer LS 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.