2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT
Awd vs $3,900 less and 30 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 147 vs 137 hp, 28 vs 29 MPG.
The Kona SE leads on AWD. The Trax LT leads on $3,900 less, 30 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 Trax LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $23,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 137 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 162 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 28 |
| 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 | 2,994 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 106.0" |
| Length | 171.3" | 178.6" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.8" |
| Height | 63.2" | 61.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | No published data |
| 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 Trax LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT starts at $23,100, $3,900 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $68/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 drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,900 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT 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 Chevrolet Trax LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT rates 29 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE produces 147 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT at 137 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT also leads in torque at 162 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT uses a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE, FWD on the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT is 7.3″ longer at 178.6″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT has a 1.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Kona comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Chevrolet Trax 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 Trax trims
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Kona vs Trax: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-3,900 gap adds up to $68/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT uses a 1.2L I3 flex-fuel Turbo. The 10 hp difference (147 vs 137) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT adds 30 more lb-ft of torque (162 vs 132), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE comes with AWD; the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Kona vs Trax
The 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT saves roughly $52/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $260.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT when you want to keep $3,900 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Trax LT 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.