What To Know
- The Hyundai Kona impresses with its fuel economy, boasting an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
- Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration, but expect around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
- The Kona features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a variety of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.
Hyundai has established itself as a leading automobile manufacturer, renowned for producing high-quality and versatile vehicles. Among its extensive lineup, the Hyundai Kona and Hyundai Santa Fe stand out as exceptional offerings in the compact and mid-size SUV segments, respectively. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences and similarities between these two Hyundai SUVs to help you make an informed decision.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
The Hyundai Kona impresses with its fuel economy, boasting an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine delivers 195 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for everyday driving.
On the other hand, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers a choice of two engines. The base 2.5-liter, four-cylinder engine generates 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain configuration, but expect around 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Interior Space and Comfort
The Hyundai Kona offers a surprisingly spacious interior for its compact size. It can comfortably seat five passengers, with ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats. The cargo area provides 19.2 cubic feet of space, which can be expanded to 45.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
The Hyundai Santa Fe boasts a more spacious cabin, with seating for up to seven passengers in certain configurations. The second row offers ample legroom and headroom, while the third row is best suited for children or occasional use. The cargo area offers 36.4 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down.
Technology and Features
Both the Hyundai Kona and Hyundai Santa Fe come well-equipped with advanced technology and features. The Kona features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a variety of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning.
The Santa Fe offers an even more advanced infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a premium audio system. It also boasts a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
Off-Road Capability
While both the Hyundai Kona and Hyundai Santa Fe are predominantly designed for urban and suburban environments, they offer varying degrees of off-road capability. The Kona is available with an all-wheel drive system and a special off-road mode, which provides improved traction on rough terrain.
The Santa Fe offers a more robust all-wheel drive system with multiple drive modes, including a dedicated off-road mode. It also features a higher ground clearance and a more rugged suspension, making it better equipped for tackling challenging off-road conditions.
Price and Value
The Hyundai Kona has a starting price of around $21,000, while the Hyundai Santa Fe starts at around $27,000. The Kona offers excellent value for its compact size and impressive fuel economy. The Santa Fe provides more space, power, and off-road capability, but comes at a higher price point.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the Hyundai Kona and Hyundai Santa Fe ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, compact size, and affordability, the Kona is an excellent choice. If you require more space, power, and off-road capability, the Santa Fe is a better fit.
Alternatives to Consider
If you’re considering alternatives to the Hyundai Kona or Hyundai Santa Fe, here are a few options to explore:
- Kia Sportage: A similar compact SUV with a spacious interior and a variety of engine options.
- Honda CR-V: A popular mid-size SUV known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and versatility.
- Toyota RAV4: Another mid-size SUV with a spacious cabin, impressive fuel economy, and a reputation for durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which SUV has better fuel economy, the Kona or the Santa Fe?
A: The Hyundai Kona has better fuel economy than the Hyundai Santa Fe.
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space, the Kona or the Santa Fe?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has more cargo space than the Hyundai Kona.
Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine, the Kona or the Santa Fe?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has a more powerful engine than the Hyundai Kona.
Q: Which SUV offers more advanced safety features, the Kona or the Santa Fe?
A: Both the Hyundai Kona and Hyundai Santa Fe offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, with the Santa Fe having a slight edge.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading, the Kona or the Santa Fe?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe is better equipped for off-roading than the Hyundai Kona.