2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Kia Seltos LX
On paper, the 2026 Kia Seltos LX wins on $2,010 less. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 147 vs 147 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Seltos LX leads on $2,010 less. The spec table compares 2 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 2 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 Kia Seltos LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $24,990 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,500/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,186 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 103.5" |
| Length | 171.3" | 172.6" |
| Width | 71.9" | 70.9" |
| Height | 63.2" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX starts at $24,990, $2,010 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 you prefer the Hyundai approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,010 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $52/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
Both produce 147 hp.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Kia Seltos LX?
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX is 1.3″ longer at 172.6″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has a 1.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims, Kia trims, Kia Seltos trims
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Seltos LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Kona and Seltos Stack Up
Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE ($27,000) and 2026 Kia Seltos LX ($24,990) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-2,010 gap is about $35/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Kona vs Seltos
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. Both produce 147 hp. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Kia Seltos LX saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the subcompact SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Kia Seltos LX when you want to keep $2,010 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Seltos LX 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 Kia or any dealership.