2026 Hyundai KONA vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek

2026 Hyundai KONA vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek in Springfield, PA

The variety of subcompact SUVs on the market can make it difficult to select the right model for you. To give you a clear perspective of how the 2026 KONA competes against its contemporaries, we’ve created a head-to-head matchup against the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek. When you’re ready to put our word to the test, visit Springfield Hyundai during our open hours!

Performance

Getting to Church Road Park on time is crucial, and the KONA allows that to happen with its sport-driven mechanics. This SUV has an available 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which is capable of outputting 190 horsepower and 195 lb.-ft. of torque. You won’t have the same amount of verve in the Crosstrek, because it only offers a standard 2.5L 4-cylinder system that provides 180 horsepower and 178 lb.-ft. of torque. Are gas savings a priority? The KONA offers a 29/34MPG city/hwy¹ fuel economy to help you pass the pump while cruising around Springfield. The same can’t be said for the Crosstrek, since it falls short with a 26/33 MPG city/hwy² efficiency rating. Lastly, the KONA comes standard with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the Subaru model has a Continually Variable Transmission.

Technology

Plunge into a cutting-edge technology experience when you drive to Walsh Park in the 2026 Hyundai KONA. You’ll have plenty of real estate to scroll through your applications, because this model comes standard with a 12.3-inch touchscreen. You may have to squint in the Subaru Crosstrek, because it includes a standard 7-inch display, and you’ll have to pay extra for the optional 11.6-inch interface. The KONA also comes standard with Bluelink+³, which provides remote access to the car via a compatible smartphone. Since this is a proprietary service, you won’t have the same connectivity in the Subaru model. Are you an audiophile who requires concert-like decibels? The Hyundai SUV comes standard with six speakers to put you at the epicenter of a full-scale listening experience. Unfortunately, the Crosstrek only comes standard with four speakers. 

Exterior

You’ll become the talk of the town while weaving between traffic in the 2026 KONA. This SUV boasts available 19-inch wheels, so you can enjoy an aggressive presence while tackling your daily to-do lists. You won’t have the same stance in the Crosstrek, because it only offers optional 18-inch wheels. To prioritize a low center of gravity, the Hyundai SUV comes with a 6.7-inch ground clearance with FWD equipped. The Subaru doesn’t provide the same aerodynamics, because its 8.7-inch ground clearance increases wind resistance. Not to mention, the KONA’s standard active grille shutters redirect airflow to improve fuel efficiency. As for the Crosstrek, these intakes are not available. Now that you know the KONA steals the show, drop by our dealership for a test drive!

• Available 190 horsepower

• Standard 8-speed automatic transmission

• Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen

• Standard 6-speaker sound system

• Available 19-inch wheels

1. EPA estimates for comparison. Your actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and vehicle's condition. Some accessories are not available on some models. While the information contained in this website was correct at time of publishing, specifications and equipment can change. Hyundai reserves the right to change product specifications and equipment at any time without incurring obligations. Some vehicles are shown with optional equipment. Specifications apply to U.S. vehicles only. Please contact your Hyundai dealer for current vehicle specifications.

2. EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.

3. Bluelink+ is available to original purchasers and lessees of new 2023 IONIQ 6 and new 2024 or newer Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Bluelink features vary by model and trim. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complimentary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change.