SUV Comparison: 2026 Crosstrek vs 2026 Kona
Put the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2026 Hyundai Kona Side-by-Side
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Hyundai Kona are two strong contenders in the compact SUV class in Berlin, CT. Both offer modern tech, efficiency, and everyday practicality, but when you take a closer look, the Crosstrek stands out with standard all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance, and a more confident all-weather driving experience. At Schaller Subaru, drivers comparing the 2026 Crosstrek vs the 2026 Kona often find the Crosstrek delivers more capability and long-term value.
Interior Comparison
2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Hyundai Kona |
· Rows: Two · Max Seating: Five · Max Cargo Capacity: 54.7 cubic feet · Upholstery Options: Cloth, sport cloth, StarTex®, leather-trimmed | · Rows: Two · Max Seating: Five · Max Cargo Capacity: 63.7 cubic feet · Upholstery Options: Cloth, H-Tex®, leather |
Why This Matters:
Interior space affects how well your SUV fits your daily routine, from commuting to weekend trips. The Kona offers slightly more maximum cargo capacity, but the new Subaru Crosstrek focuses on a smarter layout, durable materials, and practical flexibility. For drivers who want comfort with everyday usability, the Crosstrek feels more versatile and ready for real-life use.
Power and Performance
2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Hyundai Kona |
· Max Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 pounds | · Max Towing Capacity: Not Specified |
· Base Engine: 2.5L SUBARU BOXER® 4-cylinder · Horsepower: 180 · Torque: 178 lb-ft · Transmission: Lineartronic® CVT | · Base Engine: 2.0-liter MPI 4-cylinder · Horsepower: 147 · Torque: 132 lb-ft · Transmission: Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) |
· Available Engine: 1.6-liter Turbo GDI · Horsepower: 190 · Torque: 195 lb-ft · Transmission: Eight-speed automatic |
Why This Matters:
Performance shapes how confident your drive feels in everyday conditions. The Kona offers multiple engine options, including a turbo upgrade, but the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek stands out with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a balanced BOXER® engine that improves stability and traction. For drivers in Connecticut dealing with snow, rain, and changing road conditions, the Crosstrek delivers more consistent control and confidence year-round.
Tech and Entertainment
2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Hyundai Kona |
Infotainment Screen Options: · Dual 7.0-inch displays · 11.6-inch Subaru Multimedia Plus system · 11.6-inch Multimedia Navigation system Audio System Options: · Four-speaker audio system · Six-speaker audio system · Harman Kardon® premium audio system Other Standard Tech Features: · Wireless Apple CarPlay® compatibility · Wireless Android Auto™ compatibility · Bluetooth® connectivity · 4G LTE Wi-Fi capability · Subaru STARLINK® multimedia system · USB-A and USB-C ports (front and rear) · Keyless Access with Push-Button Start · Over-the-air updates · SiriusXM® compatibility · Multiple drive modes with SI-DRIVE® | Infotainment Screen Options: · 12.3-inch display audio · Available 12.3-inch navigation system Audio System Options: · Standard audio system · Bose® premium audio system Other Standard Tech Features: · Wireless Apple CarPlay® compatibility · Wireless Android Auto™ compatibility · Bluetooth® connectivity · Wi-Fi Hotspot capability · Digital Key 2 Touch · Bluelink® connected car system · Wireless phone charger · USB ports (front and rear) · Dynamic voice recognition |
Why This Matters:
Technology should feel intuitive and easy to use every day. The Kona offers modern features and strong connectivity, but the 2026 Crosstrek provides a more consistent tech experience across trims with user-friendly controls and integrated systems. If you want tech that works seamlessly without needing upgrades, the Crosstrek stands out.
Safety Features
2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Hyundai Kona |
· EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology · Adaptive Cruise Control · Pre-Collision Braking System · Lane Departure and Sway Warning · Lane Keep Assist · High Beam Assist · Lane Change Assist · Reverse automatic braking · DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation System · Rearview Camera · Vehicle Dynamics Control · Traction Control System · Anti-Lock Braking System · Brake Assist · Brake Override System · Tire Pressure Monitoring System | · Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist · Lane Keeping Assist · Lane Following Assist · Blind-Spot Collision Warning · Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist · Driver Attention Warning · Safe Exit Warning · Rear Occupant Alert · Intelligent Speed Limit Assist · Parking Distance Warning · Rearview Camera · Electronic Stability Control · Anti-Lock Braking System |
Why This Matters:
Safety features help you feel more confident behind the wheel. Both SUVs offer strong systems, but the Crosstrek stands out with standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology across trims, giving you more protection without needing upgrades. For drivers who value peace of mind every time they drive, the Crosstrek offers a more complete safety package.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek if you want:
- Standard all-wheel drive for year-round confidence
- Better capability for snow, rain, and outdoor adventures
- More standard safety features across trims
- A balanced, comfortable daily driving experience
Considering the 2026 Hyundai Kona?
- Available turbo performance and modern styling
- Offers strong tech features and available upgrades
- The Kona provides flexibility in engine choices, but the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek offers better standard capability and traction
- While the Kona is a great urban SUV, the Crosstrek delivers a more confident and versatile overall experience
Why More Drivers Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek
- Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive advantage
- Proven reliability and long-term value
- More standard safety and capability features
Test Drive the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Today
Visit Schaller Subaru to experience the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek in Berlin, CT. See why so many drivers are choosing Subaru SUVs for their daily drive. From advanced safety to all-weather capability, the Crosstrek is built for life in Connecticut. Schedule your test drive today and find the right fit for your lifestyle.
* Bluetooth® word marks and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc., and any use of such marks by Subaru or Hyundai is under license. A compatible Bluetooth®-enabled phone must first be paired. Phone performance depends on software, coverage, and carrier.
*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.
