2026 Kia Seltos vs. 2026 Hyundai Kona
Ready for a small SUV that feels easy to drive, smartly equipped, and practical for daily life? The 2026 Kia Seltos and 2026 Hyundai Kona both bring modern design, available AWD, efficient engines, and useful cabin space to a competitive segment. Seltos starts at $23,790 before destination, while Kona starts at $25,500 before added charges. That difference gives Seltos an early advantage for shoppers who want strong features while keeping value high.
Design & Style
Kia Seltos has a confident SUV shape with upright proportions, clean body lines, and a practical cabin layout. Its dimensions include a 172.6 inch length, 70.9 inch width, 103.5 inch wheelbase, and 7.3 inches of ground clearance. Those measurements help it feel city friendly while still giving drivers a useful view of the road. Cargo space measures 26.6 cu ft behind the rear seats and 62.8 cu ft with the rear seats folded.
Hyundai Kona takes a more futuristic design direction with smoother surfaces and a tech focused look. It provides 25.5 cu ft of cargo room behind the second row and 63.7 cu ft with the rear seats folded. Kona offers slightly more maximum cargo capacity, while Seltos gives you a bit more room behind the rear seats before folding anything down. For drivers who carry groceries, sports gear, work bags, or travel items often, that everyday space matters.
Technology & Safety
Seltos brings a strong technology package across the lineup. LX models include an 8 inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto. S, EX, and SX trims add a 10.25 inch touchscreen with navigation, Kia Connect, and voice recognition. Available features include dual 10.25 inch panoramic displays, a 10.25 inch digital instrument cluster, wireless phone charging, heated front seats, a 10 way power driver seat, Bose 8 speaker audio, Digital Key, and Highway Driving Assist on SX.
Kona also includes a modern cabin with a 12.3 inch touchscreen, available 12.3 inch digital gauge cluster, wireless smartphone connectivity, wireless charging, heated front seats, ambient lighting, and available Bose audio. Safety features are competitive in both SUVs. Seltos offers Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, Driver Attention Warning, available Blind Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go, and Parking Distance Warning Reverse. Kona answers with Hyundai SmartSense features and reported standard adaptive cruise control for 2026.
Performance
Seltos gives shoppers 2 engine choices. Most trims use a 2.0L inline 4 cylinder engine with 147 hp and 132 lb ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. SX AWD upgrades to a turbocharged 1.6L 4 cylinder engine with 190 hp and 195 lb ft of torque, matched with an 8 speed automatic transmission. Available torque vectoring AWD with a center locking differential adds extra confidence for changing road conditions.
Kona follows a similar formula. SE and SEL Sport models use a 2.0L 4 cylinder engine with 147 hp, while SEL Premium and Limited trims use a 1.6L turbocharged engine with 190 hp and 195 lb ft of torque. Front wheel drive is standard, and HTRAC AWD is available. Fuel economy is close, with Seltos reaching up to 28 city, 34 highway, and 31 combined MPG with FWD. Kona SE FWD is listed at 29 city, 34 highway, and 31 combined MPG.
The Bottom Line
Drivers who like bold styling and a wide digital display layout will find plenty to appreciate in the 2026 Hyundai Kona. Its higher trims offer strong performance, generous tech, and slightly more total cargo room with the rear seats folded. Pricing starts above Seltos, which may be important for shoppers who want a small SUV with a lower entry point.
Seltos stands out with its lower starting MSRP, useful cargo area, available turbocharged power, and practical AWD capability. Its features feel well matched to daily driving, family errands, commuting, and weekend plans. From value to versatility, Seltos presents a well rounded choice for shoppers comparing small SUVs with real substance.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
Ready to experience the 2026 Kia Seltos in person? Our team at DiFeo Kia can help you compare trims, explore available AWD, review technology options, and choose a configuration that fits your routine. We can walk you through the LX, S, EX, and SX options, including available features such as Kia Connect, heated front seats, wireless charging, navigation, and Bose audio.
Contact us at DiFeo Kia to schedule your test drive and learn more about our available services. We offer new Kia sales, certified pre owned and used vehicles, financing support, Kia certified service, parts assistance, EV and hybrid options, and a friendly shopping experience. Visit us today and let our team help you take the next step with confidence.
FAQ
Which SUV has more cargo space, the 2026 Kia Seltos or 2026 Hyundai Kona?
Kona has slightly more maximum cargo space at 63.7 cu ft with the rear seats folded. Seltos offers 62.8 cu ft maximum cargo space and a larger 26.6 cu ft area behind the rear seats for daily use.
Do both the 2026 Kia Seltos and 2026 Hyundai Kona offer turbo engines?
Yes. Both SUVs offer a 1.6L turbocharged 4 cylinder engine rated at 190 hp and 195 lb ft of torque. Seltos offers it on SX AWD, while Kona includes it on higher trims such as SEL Premium and Limited.
Which model has the lower starting price for 2026?
Seltos has the lower starting MSRP at $23,790 before destination. Kona starts at $25,500 before added charges. That pricing difference gives Seltos a strong value advantage for shoppers comparing small SUVs with modern features and available AWD.
Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.