2026 Kia Seltos or Hyundai Kona: full comparison

2026 Kia Seltos vs. Hyundai Kona: a few key points to remember

The Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona are two versatile subcompact SUV models with practical cargo space.

The gasoline Kia Seltos promises power and performance, while the 2026 Kona offers a functional interior and predictable road manners.

Both SUVs are available with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. You can choose either a CVT or an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Finally, the Seltos is offered at an MSRP of $28,917, while the Hyundai Kona starts at $29,721.

Comfort comparison

Looking more closely at the two vehicles, family comfort seems better on the Kia Seltos side.

As proof, Julien Amado in Le Guide de l'auto 2026 makes the following comment: “The Seltos cabin is spacious and versatile for a family. Four occupants will settle in comfortably, especially since the suspension absorbs road irregularities well [1].”

Regarding the Hyundai Kona, expert Antoine Joubert simply notes that “the space and versatility of the cabin are also worth mentioning. [2]”

Handling comparison

The Kia Seltos delivers a smoother ride on the road. Behaviour focuses more on comfort, while the Hyundai Kona brings a sporty edge.

The Kia Seltos offers a good balance between city driving and highway driving. The Hyundai Kona stands out more in urban settings with more direct steering.

Practical comparison (space, cargo, flexibility)

Cargo space in the Kia Seltos is 752 litres versus 723 litres for the Hyundai Kona.

Both vehicles also provide foldable seats for your gear and luggage. The flexible layout allows you to gain space behind the front seats.

Technical specs comparison

The two subcompact SUVs compared offer two gas powertrain options, as follows:

With the Kia Seltos and its turbocharged gasoline engine, you gain power, 5 more horsepower. For the rest, the specs are comparable. Note that there is an electric model for the Hyundai Kona.

With the turbo engine, you get an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. Otherwise, you get front-wheel drive with a CVT.

For full details on the trims, see our detailed 2026 Kia Seltos page.

Fuel economy comparison

In terms of fuel consumption, expect it to cost slightly more to fill up the Hyundai Kona if you choose the 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine.

The table below shows this:

Dimensions comparison

Are the sizes for the 2026 Kia Seltos vs. 2026 Hyundai Kona identical? Find the answer here:

The Kia Seltos is longer and taller than the Kona, which helps, among other things, with legroom and headroom in the cabin.

Tech and safety comparison

For connected technologies, you will find much of the same features:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Integrated navigation with remote over-the-air update
• Bose sound system on higher trims
• Wireless charger
• 12.3-inch touch screen
• Etc.

In terms of driver assistance and safety systems, note:

• Semi-autonomous driving (Highway Driving Assist)
• Rear occupant alert
• Driver drowsiness warning
• Safe exit monitoring
• And more

Price-to-equipment comparison

At first glance, the Kia Seltos has a more attractive starting price than the Hyundai Kona. The two vehicles share many similarities, so you get more with the Seltos than with the Kona.

We also note in passing that standard equipment is more abundant in the Kia vs. Hyundai.

Which model to choose based on your profile?

In the end, should you choose the 2026 Kia Seltos or the Hyundai Kona? Based on the information stated above, there is no doubt that the Kia Seltos comes out on top in this comparison.

You get more trim choices with the Kia (6 trims) than with the Kona (3 trims). For a smooth driving feel, frugal fuel usage, and an advantageous initial price, you should choose the Seltos instead of the 2026 Kona.

You can also check out our ranking of the best subcompact SUVs to broaden your options.

Come test drive the Kia Seltos today at your Kia Chambly dealership. A team of experts is ready to answer all your questions.