2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L vs 2026 Hyundai Kona SE
On paper, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L wins on $665 less, 2 MPG better, 22 more hp. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $665 price gap, 169 vs 147 hp, 30 vs 28 MPG.
The Corolla Cross L leads on $665 less, 2 MPG better, 22 more hp. 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 Toyota Corolla Cross L | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,335 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 169 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 151 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 29 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 13.2 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,274 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 103.9" | 104.7" |
| Length | 176.1" | 171.3" |
| Width | 71.9" | 71.9" |
| Height | 64.9" | 63.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L starts at $26,335, $665 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $11/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L is the stronger pick when you want to keep $665 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel.
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.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L rates 30 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L produces 169 hp, 22 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L also leads in torque at 151 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L is 4.8″ longer at 176.1″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota Corolla Cross comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Kona offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla Cross trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims
The Corolla Cross–Kona Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Corolla Cross and Kona compare. The $665 gap is about $11/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L has 22 more hp (169 vs 147), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500. The 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L when you want to keep $665 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla Cross L covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $11/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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.