Hyundai Kona vs Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai Kona vs Tucson | Size, Style & More

Let's compare the Kona and Tucson size differences

If the vehicle classes of each model weren't a clear indicator, the subcompact Kona is smaller than the compact Tucson. The more important question becomes how much smaller and is the higher price tag of the Tucson necessary to your lifestyle. The Tucson is 11.4 inches longer, 3.4 inches taller, and 1.5 inches wider than the Kona. This leads to quite a bit of extra space in the interior but most of that space comes as cargo and not additional passenger space. The Tucson is only 7 cu. ft. larger for total passenger space. Legroom in the front seats of the Kona is actually a slight tick larger than the Tucson but is about 3 inches smaller in the rear. The 38 inches of legroom in the Kona should be plenty of space for an average-height adult, but if you consistently have taller passengers in the rear, the Tucson is the way to go. The cargo differences are rather large though. The Tucson has 13.2 cubic feet of extra trunk space and 17.4 cubic feet of extra space with the rear seats down. Let's put all of this simply. If you're someone that uses your SUV only as a commuter or tends to travel light, the Kona is more than enough SUV for you. If you tend to have higher cargo needs or you plan on having taller family/friends with you, then the Tucson probably makes more sense.

Which style do you prefer, bold and aggressive or futuristic? Kona or Tucson?

We're not going to spend a ton of time writing about the design differences between Kona and Tucson as you're better served seeing them in person and deciding for yourself. In our opinion the Tucson, with it's parametric grille design and vertical headlamps is the more bold choice between the two. Not everyone is looking to be as bold as possible, however. The Kona, with its shark nose design language and horizontal light bar, offers plenty of excitement and maybe a touch more subdued. Overall, we think they are both stylish vehicles. This boils down purely to preference. If you want to get a firsthand look at the Tucson and Kona, visit Napleton North Palm Hyundai today.

Hyundai Kona vs Tucson | Interior, Tech & Comfort

Let's compare the Kona and Tucson interior differences

In the size comparison above, we touched on the differences between the Tucson and Kona when it comes to passenger space and cargo. If you came away from that without a clear choice, you might be wondering which SUV has the better interior features. With both of these being Hyundai models, it shouldn't surprise you that many of the features are the same between the two, especially for base level trims. They both offer 12.3-inch touchscreens and a host of quality base trim features. If you're looking to save some money and you don't mind the lack of extra space, the Kona is plenty good. When you get to the highest trim, however, the Tucson does have some bonus features. Both fully loaded models offer features like heated/ventilated seats, wireless smartphone charging, and power control seating. If you go with the Tucson you will also add Heated rear seats, a Heads up display and real leather seating instead of H-Tex leatherette. A fully loaded Tucson will probably feel a touch more luxurious but at the end of the day you will have to see if the price difference is worth these features. Overall, either model is going to have a fantastic interior, you just need to decide how big you want it to be and which features are considered must-haves.

Hyundai Kona vs Tucson | Specs, Gas mileage and Powertrain options

Let's compare the Kona and Tucson engine differences

Let's get an important difference out of the way for the Kona and Tucson. Both the Kona and Tucson offer standard gas engines; however, their powertrain options differ a lot after that. The Tucson offers a hybrid and plug-in hybrid. While the Kona doesn't have either of those options, it does offer a fully electric version. If any of those powertrains are a must-have for you, you don't have to do much more research. Beyond that, the Kona offers 2 different gas engines depending on trim while the Tucson utilizes a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine on all trim levels. The Kona's base engine is weaker by about 40 horsepower and 40 lb.-ft. of torque but get's 3 mpg better gas mileage. The upgraded Kona engine is actually more powerful by 3 horsepower and 17 lb.-ft. of torque, which makes a huge difference for an SUV that is so light. That same engine gets about the same gas mileage as the Tucson. Now if you compare that to the Tucson Hybrid, there is not much of a contest but that would be with a fair bit of extra cost. Overall, both vehicles have pros and cons for their engines so it would be best to understand what gas mileage you need and how you want your vehicle to perform.

What's it like to drive the Kona vs Tucson?

Size and engine specs play a huge role in the overall feel of the Kona and Tucson. The Kona with a more compact profile and about 600lbs less weight is going to give you a nimbler ride with tight handling and a bit more aggressive acceleration. It's a great model for city drivers and the ability to upgrade the engine allows for a pretty dynamic ride. The Size of the Tucson does lead to a more stable and confident feel to the driving experience. The smooth comfortable ride makes it good for commutes and long road trips alike. The Tucson also has the XRT trim, which adds some off-road performance with its terrain mode as well as more rugged styling. To put it simply, the Kona drives a little sportier, and the Tucson feels a touch smoother.

Hyundai Kona vs Tucson | Pricing

This is one of your biggest deciding factors for buying the Kona and Tucson. The Tucson costs around 4-6K more for a comparable trim. The extra size and some bonus features will definitely be worth it to some. Plenty of customers will be satisfied getting the savings on the Kona along with the benefits of the sporty driving experience. If you were to spend the same amount on both Hyundai SUVs, you would also get a lot more features with the Kona. Overall, take a good hard look at your budget. If you need specific features, need extra space, or can only spend so much money, one of the Kona or Tucson should fit your life. If you want up to date pricing check our Kona and Tucson inventory now.