2026 Nissan Kicks vs 2026 Hyundai Kona
If you’re looking for a reliable small SUV for your family, then it’s important to narrow down your options. This is a crowded segment, but at Natchez Nissan, we’ve watched the Kicks go head-to-head with the KONA for years. Both of these SUVs have a lot to offer, and things are only getting more exciting for the 2026 model year. If you want to see what they have in common and how they differ from one another, then you can learn more about them below.
![]() 2026 Nissan Kicks |
![]() 2026 Hyundai KONA |
MSRP |
|
| $22,430 | $25,350 |
City/Highway MPG |
|
| 28/35 | 26/31 |
Engine |
|
| 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve inline-4 gas engine (naturally aspirated) | Smartstream 2.0 L MPI (naturally aspirated) 4-cylinder |
Transmission |
|
| CVT | IVT |
Horsepower (hp) |
|
| 141 | 147 |
Evaluating The KONA and the Kick’s Engine
Both of these models have 2.0L engines, so they’re neck-and-neck when it comes to performance. The Kicks offers more torque, and it gets better mileage on the highway, while the KONA has marginally more horsepower. Natchez drivers can get a better idea of the Kicks' handles at Natchez Nissan.
- The Nissan Kicks: The Kicks has some impressive numbers, as it can get up to 141 horsepower, 140 lb-ft. of torque, and up to 35 miles per gallon on the highway. The Kicks also offers both an Eco and Sport Mode for your convenience.
- The Hyundai KONA: The KONA comes in at 147 horsepower and up to 132 lb-ft. of torque, so you’ll have smooth performance on the road. Both models offer Adaptive Cruise Control, which should make it easy to navigate the highway.
Stepping Into the Cabin
The cabin is arguably the most important part of any model, as this is what separates new vehicles from used ones. While you can read about the cabins below, we think it’s better to see them in person. If you live in Jackson or Summit, then you can make the short trip to Natchez Nissan today.
- The Nissan Kicks: The best feature afforded to the Kicks is easily the 7-inch Infotainment System, which is compatible with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Like the KONA, the Kicks also offers optional In-Car Wi-Fi, which is a nice addition that’ll keep your whole crew happy.
- The Hyundai KONA: The KONA falls behind the Kicks in a lot of areas here, but to its credit, it does offer interesting features like Remote Engine Start. These two models also have a lot of features in common, like optional Front Heated Seats, Keyless Ignition, and Audio Steering Wheel Controls.
Find the Safe Pick For Your Family
If there’s one thing that matters more than anything else, it’s the safety of you and your loved ones. Both of these modern SUVs come packed with features, but we strongly believe that the Kicks pulls ahead with smart inclusions like Pedestrian Detection and the Knee Airbags. If you’re ready to upgrade, then you can estimate the value of your trade-in before you even hit the road.
- The Nissan Kicks: Unlike the KONA, the Kicks offers Pedestrian Detection, Side Airbags in the Rear, and Knee Airbags. You’ll also have standard Rear Parking Sensors, which you’ll only find on higher trims of the KONA.
- The Hyundai KONA: The KONA is a modernized SUV, but so is the Kicks. To name a few of the features that they have in common, there’s Stability Control, Traction Control, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System, the Around View Camera, and Automatic Braking.
You can take a closer look at what the 2026 Nissan Kicks has to offer when you walk through our doors at Natchez Nissan.
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

