2026 Hyundai Kona vs 2026 Kia Seltos

On the specs front, both SUVs share a lot of DNA under the skin. They each offer a standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with nearly identical power (around 146 – 147 hp and 132 lb-ft of torque) and similar CVT transmissions, so everyday driving feels familiar in either car. Turbocharged 1.6 L engines are also available for both, giving you that extra punch without diving into full-on sports car territory. Fuel economy is close too: the Kona tends to edge out slightly better mpg in base form (for example, approx. 29 city / 34 hwy) whereas the Seltos is right behind (about 28 city / 34 hwy) in EPA ratings.
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Where the Kia Seltos vs Hyundai Kona specs start to diverge more noticeably is in size and cargo. The Seltos usually has a roomier cargo hold and more rear-seat space, which translates into real-world practicality if you haul gear, groceries, or weekend warriors. Some comparisons show the Seltos with up to roughly 26–27 cu ft of cargo space behind the rear seats and close to 63 cu ft with them folded.
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The Kona’s numbers are slightly smaller, but it makes up for some of that with a lower cargo floor and a more compact footprint that’s easier to park in tight city spots.

Hyundai Kona vs Kia Seltos interior and tech is another battle of style vs simplicity. The Kona often sports a larger standard infotainment screen and newer wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto features on many trims, whereas the Seltos sometimes keeps things a bit more basic at the base level but gives you premium touches like larger screens and navigation on higher trims.
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So if someone asks “what’s the Kia equivalent to Hyundai Kona?”, the straightforward answer is the Kia Seltos: it inhabits the same segment, shares similar engines and tech, and targets the same type of buyer who wants a compact SUV with personality. The real choice comes down to what you value more — suburban practicality and cargo room (Seltos) or slightly sharper efficiency and sometimes more modern tech (Kona).