Finding the perfect subcompact SUV can take a lot more time than most people expect. With so many models on the market offering different combinations of technology, safety, comfort, and performance, it’s easy to get overwhelmed trying to figure out which one truly fits your lifestyle. That’s why we at Byers Airport Subaru in Columbus, Ohio have made the process easier by comparing what we believe is one of the top choices in the segment – the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek – with one of its biggest competitors, the 2026 Hyundai Kona. Drivers from Reynoldsburg, Pickerington, and Gahanna appreciate the Crosstrek for standout features like standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and impressive ground clearance, which help inspire confidence in all kinds of driving conditions. The Crosstrek also delivers a comfortable cabin, flexible cargo space, and advanced safety technology that makes daily commutes and weekend adventures equally enjoyable. While both SUVs bring a lot to the table, the Crosstrek continues to stand out for drivers who want capability, versatility, and long-lasting value in one stylish package. Below, you’ll take a closer look at the specs, features, and overall performance of both models, so you can see how the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek rises above the competition. Contact us today to schedule a test drive and experience the Crosstrek for yourself.
The 2026 Crosstrek offers a standard ground clearance of 8.7 inches, while the 2026 Kona only has a 6.1-inch ground clearance. If you choose the Crosstrek Wilderness model, you'll net an incredible 9.3 inches of ground clearance, perfect for off-road weekend adventures. Both the Crosstrek and the Kona offer standard 17-inch alloy wheels on all-season tires. Only the Crosstrek offers an upgrade to 18-inch wheels, while all-terrain tires are standard fare on the Crosstrek Wilderness. LED steering responsive headlights are standard on the Crosstrek for better visibility while cornering, and LED fog lights are available on higher trim levels. The Kona offers standard LED projector combination headlights, while fog lights are not available. Roof rails and a power moonroof are two more available features found only on the Crosstrek.
Both the 2026 Crosstrek and 2026 Kona seat 5 with comparable head- and legroom. Heated front seats are available on the higher trim levels of both models, while you'll only find an available heated steering wheel on the Crosstrek. StarTex® water-repellent upholstery is standard on higher trim levels of the Crosstrek, as well as leather-trim upholstery – features not found on the Kona. A dual-zone climate control is standard on the Crosstrek, but is only available on the higher trim levels of the Kona. Both SUVs offer Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for standard connectivity and Bluetooth® for seamless audio streaming, as well as hands-free calling and texting.
The 2026 Crosstrek delivers confident performance, thanks to its standard 2.5-liter BOXER® engine that generates 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, giving drivers strong acceleration and responsive handling for everyday driving and weekend adventures alike. In comparison, the 2026 Kona comes equipped with a standard 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek also features a standard Lineartronic® CVT with an 8-speed manual mode for a more engaging driving experience, while the Kona offers a standard IVT transmission with an available 8-speed automatic on select trims. One major advantage for the Crosstrek is its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which comes included on every model for added traction and confidence. With the Kona, all-wheel drive is only available as an added-cost option, making the Crosstrek a stronger value for drivers who want capability included from the start.
Subaru has always made safety their number one priority, and the latest models are no different. The lauded EyeSight® suite of driver assist features is standard on the 2026 Crosstrek, offering amenities such as Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering, Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist, and more. The 2026 Kona also offers standard safety features like Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert; features which are available on higher trim levels of the Crosstrek. Reverse Automatic Braking is available only on the Crosstrek, helping to prevent collisions while in reverse.
When it comes to overall value, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek gives drivers more of what many drivers want in a subcompact SUV, compared to the 2026 Hyundai Kona. From its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to its versatile interior and adventure-ready capability, the Crosstrek delivers confidence and practicality at a price that makes sense for a wide range of drivers. Whether you’re commuting through New Albany, running errands in Westerville, or heading out for a weekend trip near Lancaster, the Crosstrek offers the comfort, durability, and efficiency needed for everyday life. The Kona certainly has its strengths, but the Crosstrek stands out with its balanced mix of long-term value, safety, and all-weather performance that drivers continue to appreciate year after year. If you have any questions about the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, contact Byers Airport Subaru in Columbus, OH today.
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2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Hyundai Kona |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER® | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Standard Horsepower | 180 | 147 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 178 | 132 |
| Standard Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Front-Wheel Drive |
| Standard Transmission | Lineartronic® CVT w/ Adaptive Control | IVT |
| Roof Rails | Available | Available |
| Apple CarPlay® / Android Auto™ | Standard | Standard |
| Water-Repellent Upholstery | Available | Unavailable |
| Hill Descent Control | Standard | Unavailable |
| Standard Fuel Economy | 26 City / 33 Highway | 29 City / 34 Highway |
