2026 Hyundai Kona vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek in North Little Rock, AR

One of the most popular choices for drivers throughout Central Arkansas is a compact SUV. Whether commuting across the Arkansas River into Little Rock, navigating traffic near McCain Boulevard, or preparing for unpredictable seasonal weather, North Little Rock drivers need a vehicle that blends efficiency, traction, and everyday versatility. That’s exactly why the 2026 Hyundai Kona vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek in North Little Rock, AR continues to draw strong attention from compact SUV shoppers.

At first glance, these two SUVs appear evenly matched. Each offers five-passenger seating, advanced driver-assistance technology, and available or standard all-wheel drive. However, differences begin to surface when comparing engine options, interior flexibility, technology standards, and long-term ownership coverage.

Power, Acceleration, and Daily Performance

Performance strategy is one of the clearest distinctions between these two compact SUVs.

Hyundai offers flexibility within the Kona lineup by providing two engine choices:

• 147-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
• Available 190-horsepower turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission

For everyday driving around North Little Rock and along I-40 or I-30, the standard engine emphasizes smoothness and fuel efficiency. Drivers who want more responsive acceleration can choose the turbocharged option. In testing, a turbocharged AWD Kona reached 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, offering stronger passing and merging capability.

Subaru standardizes performance across the Crosstrek lineup:

• 180-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every trim

Rather than focusing on acceleration upgrades, the Crosstrek prioritizes stability and traction. Subaru’s AWD system continuously adjusts torque distribution for confident handling, while features like hill-descent control and X-Mode enhance light off-road capability.

Drivers who value having a performance upgrade available may prefer the Kona. Those who prioritize standard AWD simplicity may appreciate the Crosstrek’s approach.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Versatility

Interior space plays a major role in daily usability.

A modern, display-centered dashboard defines the Kona’s cabin. Every model includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and upper trims add a matching 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that stretches across the dash for a clean, contemporary feel.

Kona interior measurements include:

• 38.2 inches of rear legroom
• 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
• 63.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity

That additional cargo space can be helpful for families in North Little Rock transporting sports gear, groceries, or luggage.

Inside the Crosstrek, practicality remains the focus. Seating is supportive, controls are intuitive, and visibility is strong for city driving.

Crosstrek interior dimensions include:

• 36.5 inches of rear legroom
• 20 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
• 55 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity

Both SUVs are practical choices, but the Kona offers slightly more rear passenger space and greater maximum cargo flexibility.

Technology and Connectivity

Modern connectivity is expected in today’s compact SUVs, and both models deliver it in different ways.

Standard and available technology in the Kona includes:

• 12.3-inch touchscreen (standard on all trims)
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Bluetooth connectivity
• Available 8-speaker Bose premium audio system
• Hyundai Bluelink connected services
• Over-the-air software updates

By making the large touchscreen standard, Hyundai reduces the need for buyers to upgrade trims simply for better display technology.

Technology offerings in the Crosstrek vary by trim:

• 7-inch touchscreen on base models
• Available 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless on higher trims)
• Available 10-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system
• MySubaru Connected Services

While the available 11.6-inch screen is impressive, it requires moving up the trim ladder. Drivers who want strong standard tech may find the Kona better equipped from the start.

Exterior Styling and Character

Design language differs noticeably between these two compact SUVs.

Sharp lighting elements and sculpted body lines give the Kona a modern, forward-looking presence. Its wide stance and streamlined profile complement urban environments throughout North Little Rock and the greater Little Rock metro area.

The Crosstrek leans into its rugged reputation. Protective cladding and a slightly elevated ride height reinforce its outdoors-oriented character. In Wilderness trim, up to 9.3 inches of ground clearance highlights its trail capability.

Buyers drawn to contemporary styling may prefer the Kona’s progressive design. Those who favor a traditional crossover aesthetic may gravitate toward the Crosstrek.

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Advanced safety systems are standard on both models.

Hyundai SmartSense in the Kona includes:

• Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane-keeping assist
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear cross-traffic alert

Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology in the Crosstrek includes:

• Adaptive cruise control with lane centering
• Pre-collision braking
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Available automatic emergency steering

In crash testing, the Kona earned IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition and a 4-star overall rating from NHTSA. The Crosstrek achieved a 5-star overall NHTSA rating and has previously appeared on the IIHS Top Safety Pick list.

Both vehicles provide strong safety coverage for Central Arkansas drivers.

Performance, AWD, and Fuel Economy

Here’s how the numbers compare:

2026 Hyundai Kona

• Horsepower: 147 hp (base) / 190 hp (available turbo)
• AWD Availability: Optional on all trims
• Fuel Economy: Up to 31 mpg combined (FWD), 28 mpg combined (AWD base), 26 mpg combined (AWD turbo)
• Seating Capacity: 5

2026 Subaru Crosstrek

• Horsepower: 180 hp
• AWD Availability: Standard on all trims
• Fuel Economy: 29 mpg combined (up to 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway)
• Seating Capacity: 5

Standard AWD is a clear strength for the Crosstrek. However, the Kona balances efficiency with the availability of stronger turbocharged performance.

Why the 2026 Hyundai Kona Is a Strong Choice for North Little Rock Drivers

The Crosstrek remains a capable compact SUV with built-in all-wheel drive and a rugged design that appeals to many buyers.

When evaluating the complete package, including cargo capacity, standard display size, available turbocharged performance, and Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the 2026 Hyundai Kona presents broader overall appeal for many drivers in North Little Rock.

For shoppers visiting Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock, the Kona offers a well-rounded blend of practicality, technology, and long-term value suited to daily life in Central Arkansas.

FAQs

Which SUV offers the longer warranty?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona includes a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with 3 years/36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek offers a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Does the Crosstrek come standard with all-wheel drive?
Yes. Every 2026 Subaru Crosstrek includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment. The 2026 Hyundai Kona offers all-wheel drive as an available option.

Which compact SUV has more cargo space?
The Kona provides up to 63.7 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, compared to 55 cubic feet in the Crosstrek.

Tags: 2026 Hyundai Kona, 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, Compact SUVs in North Little Rock AR, Crain Hyundai of North Little Rock, Hyundai Kona vs Subaru Crosstrek, Hyundai SUVs Arkansas, North Little Rock Car Dealership
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