What To Know
- The Kona received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Yaris Cross earned a five-star rating from the Japan New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP).
- The Toyota Yaris Cross offers a slightly smaller 7-inch touchscreen, but it comes with a more intuitive interface and supports Amazon Alexa integration.
- Both the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Yaris Cross come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
In the realm of subcompact crossovers, two formidable contenders emerge: the Hyundai Kona and the Toyota Yaris Cross. These vehicles cater to urban dwellers and adventure enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of practicality, style, and versatility. But which one reigns supreme? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison of the Hyundai Kona vs. Yaris Cross to uncover their strengths, weaknesses, and the ultimate winner.
Exterior: Bold Kona vs. Refined Yaris Cross
The Hyundai Kona exudes an assertive presence with its sculpted lines, angular headlights, and cascading grille. Its bold stance is further enhanced by optional 18-inch alloy wheels. In contrast, the Toyota Yaris Cross presents a more refined aesthetic. Its sleek silhouette features flowing curves, a trapezoidal grille, and slim LED headlights. Both crossovers offer a range of exterior colors to suit diverse tastes.
Interior: Spacious Kona vs. Premium Yaris Cross
Inside the Hyundai Kona, you’ll find a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The dashboard features a modern design with an easy-to-use infotainment system. The Toyota Yaris Cross, on the other hand, boasts a premium cabin with soft-touch materials and high-quality finishes. Its seats provide excellent support, and the rear seats slide and recline for added versatility.
Performance: Peppy Kona vs. Efficient Yaris Cross
Under the hood, the Hyundai Kona offers a choice of two engines: a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine and a 175-horsepower 1.6-liter turbocharged engine. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Toyota Yaris Cross, on the other hand, is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 118 horsepower. It comes standard with a CVT, but a six-speed manual transmission is available as an option. While the Kona offers more power, the Yaris Cross boasts superior fuel efficiency.
Safety: Advanced Features in Both
Both the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Yaris Cross have earned impressive safety ratings. The Kona received a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), while the Yaris Cross earned a five-star rating from the Japan New Car Assessment Program (JNCAP). Both crossovers come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Technology: Connected Kona vs. Intuitive Yaris Cross
The Hyundai Kona features a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Toyota Yaris Cross offers a slightly smaller 7-inch touchscreen, but it comes with a more intuitive interface and supports Amazon Alexa integration. Both systems provide access to a range of apps and navigation capabilities.
Off-Road Capability: Kona Advantage
If you’re planning on venturing off the beaten path, the Hyundai Kona has a clear advantage. Its available all-wheel drive (AWD) system and increased ground clearance provide enhanced traction and stability on rough terrain. The Toyota Yaris Cross, while not as capable as the Kona, still offers an optional AWD system for added peace of mind in inclement weather.
Fuel Economy: Yaris Cross Shines
When it comes to fuel economy, the Toyota Yaris Cross reigns supreme. Its efficient engine and hybrid powertrain option deliver impressive fuel consumption figures. The Kona, while still fuel-efficient, consumes slightly more fuel than the Yaris Cross.
The Verdict: A Close Call, but the Yaris Cross Emerges Victorious
After carefully weighing all the factors, the Toyota Yaris Cross emerges as the victor in this Hyundai Kona vs. Yaris Cross showdown. Its refined interior, superior fuel efficiency, and intuitive technology make it the more well-rounded choice for most buyers. However, if you value power and off-road capability, the Hyundai Kona remains a compelling option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which crossover has a more spacious cabin?
A: The Hyundai Kona offers a slightly more spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom.
Q: Which crossover provides better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Yaris Cross delivers superior fuel efficiency thanks to its efficient engine and hybrid powertrain option.
Q: Which crossover offers more advanced safety features?
A: Both the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Yaris Cross come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Q: Which crossover is better for off-roading?
A: The Hyundai Kona has a clear advantage in off-road capability with its available all-wheel drive system and increased ground clearance.
Q: Which crossover has a more user-friendly infotainment system?
A: The Toyota Yaris Cross offers a more intuitive infotainment system with a smaller but easier-to-use touchscreen interface.