Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: which is better?
Picking between the Kona and Tucson? Find out which Hyundai SUV is better in our guide below
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SUVs are all the rage, and there are so many to choose from in the UK. So, if you’ve narrowed it down to the Hyundai Kona vs. Tuscon, you’re doing well.
But you still need to decide. And these cars come from the same reliable brand and offer some of the same features... How do you know which one to choose?
The Kona is the Tucson’s smaller sibling, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in any areas, and both offer plenty of space.
We’ll need to compare how they drive, the tech, the styling, and more to help you make the right call.
Take a look at our Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson review below to get all the details.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson
Our guide will answer:
Is the Hyundai Kona or Tucson better to drive?
Does the Hyundai Kona or Tucson have better tech?
Which SUV has the better styling?
Is the Hyundai Kona or Tucson more reliable?
What are the Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson dimensions?
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Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: styling
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It’s obvious the Kona and Tucson come from the same family tree even on first glance. They have a similar aesthetic, combining sharp edges and folds with a curvy front end.
They’re set apart by the grilles though. The Tucson shows up with a grinning grille that spans the entire front end, while the Kona is more reserved with a sort of trapezium-shaped setup.
Both Hyundai models were given a recent facelift that changed their appearances a bit. The biggest change is for the electric Kona, which gets headlights that are basically just a strip of light across the front of the car.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: what are they like to drive?
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Both the Kona and Tucson come with high praise when it comes to getting on the road, but the Tucson seems to be the favourite for a drive that’s a bit more interesting.
The Kona feels like a high-riding hatchback, whereas the Tucson nails its handling a bit better and makes use of its larger shape. Having said that, you’ll feel comfy and stable on all types of roads in both cars.
Neither offer a diesel, but they both have efficient petrol choices. Each Tucson starts with the same 1.6-litre petrol engine, then you get your pick of mild, full, and plug-in hybrid variants.
Obviously, the plug-in hybrid makes the most fuel savings with up to 201.8mpg in the best-case scenario.
With the Kona, pick from a 1.0-litre or 1.6-litre petrol engine, or a 1.6-litre full hybrid. The hybrid model is the most efficient, grabbing up to 61mpg.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: interior and technology
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Inside a Hyundai SUV is a nice place to be. They offer modern tech and styling that stands up against the more premium brands, though some plastics can feel scratchier in places.
Tech is a big selling point. The Kona shows off a 10.25-inch infotainment screen that’s paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are built in – a handy touch.
The Tucson is equally as flashy. You’ll also find a 10.25-inch infotainment screen in this one, plus an extra 10.25-inch screen for the instrument cluster.
Hyundai’s infotainment system is easy to use as well, despite its high-tech look. Bear in mind, older models might have smaller infotainment screens in both cars – so check the details of each model if you’re buying used.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: boot space and practicality
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The Hyundai Tucson is class-leading when it comes to boot space, with a wild 620-litre offering that you can’t really argue with.
By no means is the Kona disappointing in comparison, but it is a smaller car overall. You’ll have a 466-litre boot – a very generous offering for an SUV of this size and one that also stands out in its category.
Despite it being a small SUV, the Kona is still very practical. Sam Sheehan, our motoring editor, says: “The Kona’s interior space is decent, if not class leading.
“Front head and legroom is ample, while the rear compartment may be a bit of a squeeze for adults over six feet tall. “
The Tucson is also massively spacious, but it’s the Kona that has a real ‘Tardis’ effect for a car of its size.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: safety and reliability
The Hyundai Tucson takes the lead when it comes to Euro NCAP safety ratings, as it pulls out a five full-star rating against the Kona’s four stars.
Still, the Kona comes in clutch with safety features. There’s kit like pedestrian detection, rearview camera, and forward collision alert on offer.
The Tucson squares up similarly with much of the same tech, as you’d expect from two cars made by the same brand.
Hyundai models are also known for being reliable choices. They come with a five-year warranty from brand-new that’s transferable to new owners, so even if you buy pre-owned, you can still be covered.
Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: dimensions
Hyundai Kona
Length: 4,355mm
Width: 1,825mm
Height: 1,575mm
Boot space: 466 litres (1,300 litres with the rear seats folded)
Hyundai Tucson
Length: 4,365mm
Width: 1,795mm
Height: 1,540mm
Boot space: 620 litres (1,799 litres with the rear seats folded)
Verdict: Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson: Which Should You Buy?
There’s a pretty easy decider when it comes to the Hyundai Kona vs. Tucson – how big does your SUV need to be?
The Kona is the smaller option but is still plenty spacious for a family car. The boot easily rivals others in the small SUV segment, and the cabin is plush and comfortable.
Choose the Tucson is you want more space and to be able to brag about that 620-litre boot. It’s easy to drive, despite its size, and pretty efficient.
Learn even more about each car with our Hyundai Tucson and Kona reviews.
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