In this Toyota Corolla Cross vs. Hyundai Kona guide, we have compared some of the most important aspects of each vehicle.
Below you can see how these fantastic vehicles compete and which one would be the perfect fit for you.
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross vs. 2022 Hyundai Kona Vehicle Comparison
Engine and Transmission
In terms of engine power, the Kona’s 2.0 DOHC 4 Cylinder engine offers slightly less torque (132-ft vs. 151lb-ft) at 1500RPM and horsepower (147hp vs. 169hp) at 6000 RPM than the Corolla Cross’ 2.0 DOHC 4 Cylinder engine.
Both the Kona and the Corolla Cross feature an automatic transmission system with the option to switch to a manual mode.
Fuel Economy
Both vehicles have an automatic engine shutdown when the vehicle isn’t in motion, lowering fuel usage.
However, the 2022 Cross tends to provide greater fuel mileage than the Kona, 29 city/32 hwy compared to 25 city/29 hwy.
Off-road Capabilities
Both vehicles feature front and all-wheel drive.
However, the larger tires on the Corolla Cross provide greater surface traction, which is useful when driving off-road.
The same applies to offroad clearance, with the Corolla Cross boasting 8.1-inch minimum ground clearance compared to the Kona’s 6.7 inches.
Brakes and Stopping
The brake rotors are extremely important when it comes to stopping power.
On this note, the Corolla Cross offers the better-sized rotors of the two, with 12-inch front rotors and 11.1 rear rotors.
The Kona features 11-inch front rotors with 10.3-inch rear rotors.
Both vehicles also make use of four-wheel antilock brakes to help avoid slips when braking.
Safety
In terms of safety, both vehicles offer similar features.
Both the Corolla Cross and the Kona provide rear cross-path warning and blind-spot warning systems.
They also offer passenger frontal airbags and lane departure warning systems for added safety.
Cargo Capacity
When its rear seat is down, the cargo volume on the Corolla Cross is far larger than the Kona’s cargo space – 26.5 cubic feet compared to the Kona’s 19.2 cubic feet.
If you can appreciate accessibility features, the Corolla Cross XLE also features a handy power liftgate to help when unloading.
Towing
If you are looking to use your vehicle for towing, the Kona may not be a suitable choice.
Whereas the Corolla Cross offers impressive 1,500 lbs towing capabilities, the Kona doesn’t offer any towing capabilities at all.
Interior Features and Technology
Interior features can add a layer of convenience to your chosen vehicle.
Window control is a common feature in modern vehicles, however, the Corolla Cross will allow you to completely open or close your windows with a single button press.
Both vehicles offer rear vents, providing temperature regulation throughout the vehicle and keeping you warm in the winter.
Passenger Space
The rear passenger space for these two vehicles can be confusing as the Corolla Cross offers 1.2 inches more head room than the Kona but 2.6 inches less leg room.
For front passenger space, the Corolla Cross offers greater head and leg room than the Kona.
Tires and Wheels
As the Corolla Cross features 17-inch standard wheels, it tends to offer greater handling and braking than the Kona’s 16-inch wheels.
The same applies to traction when comparing the two vehicles, with the Corolla Cross offering 215/65R17 whereas the Kona provides 205/60R16.
Suspension and Handling
As the Kona’s wheelbase is slightly smaller than the Corolla Cross’ (102.4 inches vs. 103.9 inches), its handling tends to be a little less smooth.
Maintenance and Service
Finding maintenance and service for a Corolla Cross tends to be easier than finding service for a Kona.
This is because there are over 40% more dealers specializing in Toyota vehicles in the US than there are dealers specializing in Hyundai vehicles.
Warranty Cover
The basic level of warranty provided by the Kona is slightly more generous than the warranty supplied by Toyota for the Corolla Cross.
Reliability
Comparing reliability tends to depend on long-term surveys of previous owners; as both models are new, it can be hard to know which is more reliable.
In terms of manufacturers, Toyota vehicles tend to be slightly more reliable than the majority of Hyundai vehicles.
The J.D. Power and Associates’ 2021 survey ranked Hyundai 7th in their rankings and Toyota 4th.
Availability of Models
A slight advantage is given to the Corolla Cross in terms of model availability.
Unlike the Kona, the Corolla Cross offers both sedan and four-door hatchback models – providing more choice to potential buyers.
Price
In terms of cost, the Kona will set you back around $25,025 on average.
The Corolla Cross will generally cost around $25,160, depending on what’s included in your package.
2022 Toyota Corolla Cross vs. 2022 Hyundai Kona – Which Vehicle is Right for You?
Generally, if you don’t mind spending a little more than we would recommend the Corolla Cross over the Kona for most drivers.
It offers better fuel mileage and provides a few extra features while still offering a competitive price.