2026 Hyundai Tucson vs Hyundai Kona

The 2026 Hyundai Tucson delivers 187 horsepower from its standard 2.5L four-cylinder engine. As a compact SUV, it offers significantly more cargo and passenger room than the subcompact Kona. Compare these gas-powered SUVs below or schedule a test drive at our Muncie dealership.

Engine Power and Transmission Performance

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When deciding between Hyundai's distinct gas-powered SUVs, standard engine capability is a primary differentiator. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson is equipped exclusively with a robust 2.5L GDI+MPI 4-cylinder engine. This powerplant generates 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a remarkably smooth 8-speed Automatic transmission featuring SHIFTRONIC manual shift mode.

This larger engine provides excellent passing power on I-69, ensuring the vehicle never feels sluggish even when loaded with passengers. Conversely, the Hyundai Kona is classified as a subcompact SUV. While it is incredibly nimble for downtown Indianapolis parking and tight city streets, its standard base engine generates less horsepower than the Tucson.

If your daily driving requires transporting multiple passengers over long highway stretches, the 2.5L engine in the Tucson provides a much more relaxed, capable driving experience. You can browse our local Muncie Hyundai Tucson inventory to test drive this 2.5L engine for yourself.

Interior Space and Cargo Volume

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Beyond engine power, the physical footprint of these two vehicles dictates their utility. The Tucson sits firmly in the compact SUV class, providing a massive 146.9 cubic feet of total interior volume (on models without a panoramic sunroof). Families in Delaware County will appreciate the generous rear-seat legroom and the expansive cargo area, which offers 38.7 cubic feet of storage space even with the second-row seats locked in their upright positions.

The Kona and the entry-level Venue are noticeably smaller. They are brilliant options for solo commuters or first-time buyers looking for incredible fuel economy in a smaller footprint, but they cannot match the sheer cargo-hauling capabilities of the Tucson when loading up golf clubs, sports equipment, or luggage for a weekend road trip.

If you want to see exactly how the Tucson cabin is configured across its SE, SEL, XRT, SEL Premium, and Limited trims, you can review our comprehensive 2026 Hyundai Tucson overview.