Choosing Between the 2026 Hyundai Kona and 2026 Kia Seltos
Choosing Between the 2026 Hyundai Kona and 2026 Kia Seltos
Posted on February 25, 2026
The subcompact SUV segment offers drivers in Alberta a strong pairing of efficiency, versatility, and value. Two standouts in this category - the 2026 Hyundai Kona and 2026 Kia Seltos - deliver distinct approaches to urban mobility and weekend adventures. Both vehicles seat five passengers and provide flexible cargo solutions, yet each brings unique strengths to the table.
Understanding how these models differ helps drivers identify which better aligns with their priorities. From powertrain options and fuel economy to interior technology and available features, this comparison highlights the key distinctions between these two popular subcompact SUVs.
At a Glance: Kona vs. Seltos
| Feature | 2026 Hyundai Kona | 2026 Kia Seltos |
| Engine Options | 2.0L 4-cylinder / 1.6L turbo | 2.0L 4-cylinder / 1.6L turbo |
| Transmission | IVT / 8-speed automatic | IVT / 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 7.5 - 9.0 L/100km | 7.6 - 9.2 L/100km |
| Cargo Volume (Seats Up/Down) | 723 L / 1,803 L | 752 L / 1,778 L |
| Starting MSRP | $26,749 | Not disclosed |
Pricing shown reflects the price at the time of writing. Final pricing may vary.
Powertrain and Efficiency
The Kona offers two engine choices across its trim lineup. The 2.0L Essential and Preferred trims feature a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT), available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The N Line and N Line with top Package step up to a 1.6L turbocharged engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission, exclusively in AWD.
Fuel economy varies by configuration. The Kona 2.0L Essential FWD achieves 7.5 L/100km combined, while the 2.0L Preferred FWD returns 7.6 L/100km combined. AWD variants see slightly higher consumption: the 2.0L Essential AWD delivers 8.5 L/100km combined, the 2.0L Preferred AWD and Preferred Trend AWD both achieve 8.6 L/100km combined, and the N Line/top AWD records 9.0 L/100km combined.
The Seltos mirrors this powertrain structure. LX and EX trims use a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 132 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, paired with an IVT. These trims offer FWD or AWD. The SX and X-Line trims feature a 1.6L turbocharged engine generating 195 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 195 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with AWD only.
Seltos fuel economy ranges from 7.6 L/100km combined for the LX and EX FWD models to 8.2 L/100km combined for LX and EX AWD variants. The turbocharged SX and X-Line trims consume 9.2 L/100km combined.
Cargo Capacity and Interior Space
The Kona provides 723 litres of cargo space with the rear seats upright, expanding to 1,803 litres when the 60:40 split-folding rear seats are lowered. This configuration accommodates everything from weekly groceries to camping gear or sports equipment.
The Seltos offers 752 litres of cargo capacity with rear seats up, which increases to 1,778 litres when the rear seats fold flat. The Seltos delivers slightly more cargo volume in the upright position, while the Kona edges ahead when maximum cargo space is required.
Both vehicles seat five passengers comfortably. The Kona measures 4,350 - 4,385 mm in length, 1,825 mm in width, and 1,580 - 1,615 mm in height depending on trim and drivetrain. The Seltos maintains similar dimensions, ensuring both models fit easily into urban parking spaces while maximizing interior room.
Technology and Connectivity
The Kona's technology offerings vary by trim level. Higher trims include advanced infotainment systems, multiple USB-C ports (two front, two rear), Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluelink Connected Car System with over-the-air software updates.
The Seltos LX FWD starts with an 8-inch display audio system, 6-speaker audio, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The 4.2-inch TFT LCD Supervision instrument cluster provides essential driving information. Upgrading to EX Premium or higher trims unlocks a 10.25-inch multimedia interface with integrated navigation, HD radio, SiriusXM satellite radio, Kia Connect, and a 10.25-inch TFT LCD Supervision instrument cluster. The SX trim adds a Bose premium audio system, heads-up display, and Digital Key 2 Touch.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Both vehicles prioritize occupant protection and driver confidence. The Kona comes with remote start and heated body-colour side mirrors with turn signals across the lineup.
The Seltos LX FWD includes forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, lane follow assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic avoidance assist, Safe Exit Assist System, and a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines. Higher trims add advanced forward collision avoidance assist and highway driving assist. Six airbags, electronic stability control, 4-wheel anti-lock braking system, hill-assist control, downhill brake control, and tire pressure monitoring system come standard across the lineup.
Trim Levels and Packages
The Kona lineup includes five trims: 2.0L Essential, 2.0L Preferred, 2.0L Preferred with Trend Package, N Line, and N Line with top Package. The Essential and Preferred trims offer FWD or AWD, while the Preferred Trend, N Line, and N Line top come exclusively with AWD.
The Seltos offers seven configurations: LX FWD, LX AWD, EX FWD, EX AWD, EX Premium, SX, and X-Line. The LX and EX trims provide FWD or AWD options, while EX Premium, SX, and X-Line come standard with AWD.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | 2026 Hyundai Kona | 2026 Kia Seltos |
| Most Efficient Configuration | 2.0L Essential FWD (7.5 L/100km) | LX/EX FWD (7.6 L/100km) |
| Maximum Cargo (Seats Down) | 1,803 L | 1,778 L |
| Display Technology | Varies by trim | Up to 10.25" cluster + 10.25" infotainment |
Explore Your Next SUV at Grande Prairie Hyundai
Both the 2026 Hyundai Kona and 2026 Kia Seltos deliver practical solutions for drivers seeking efficiency, versatility, and modern technology in the subcompact SUV segment. The Kona emphasizes fuel economy in its base configurations and offers generous cargo expansion, while the Seltos provides slightly more upright cargo space and extensive trim-level choices.
Our team at Grande Prairie Hyundai is ready to help you explore the 2026 Kona lineup and find the trim that matches your driving needs.