The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and Hyundai Kona are both brand new generations for the new model year. With more changes -- such as a bigger size -- the Kona has upped its game.

Get answers to your questions in this subcompact SUV comparison.  

What are the Basic Qualities of these Two SUVs?

When Motor Trend speaks of the Kona, they refer to its futuristic looks. The Drive praises the way that designers improved the original Kona’s visual charm when they made the new generation.

When Motor Trend writes about the new 2024 Crosstrek, they say it’s not exactly pretty. Car and Driver refers to the Crosstrek’s utilitarian nature, suggesting that its straightforward style will be a disappointment to shoppers looking for a more designer look.  

For shoppers who are looking for the best new thing, the Kona should definitely be on their shopping list. It’s easy to see that the Hyundai warranty will help keep costs down in a way that the Subaru warranty just can’t.  



How Spacious is a Subcompact SUV Cabin?

A subcompact SUV is always the smallest in the SUV lineup. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t maximize space for passengers and cargo.

This Kona generation is 5.7 inches longer than the previous one. The Crosstrek didn’t get any bigger. This allows the Kona to pull ahead with extra cubes in the cargo hold and extra inches in the second row.  

Travelers have an extra five cubes of cargo space in the hold. That’s about one-fifth bigger than the Crosstrek. If you need lots of cargo room, the Kona offers 63.7 cubes. That’s nine cubic feet bigger than the Crosstrek’s 54.7 cu ft.

As the website Cars noted, the new Kona cargo hold benefits from other changes as well. It’s a bit lower which makes the load height better for most users. The hatchback mouth is wider, helping with oddly shaped objects. Even better, the cargo cover can be attached to the back of the second row when you don’t need it.  



How High Tech are These SUVs?

Motor Trend praises the new Kona for its Impressive tech while it complains that the Crosstrek infotainment is great. US News regrets Subaru's irksome infotainment system.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starts out with a 7-inch touchscreen that is criticized for its out-of-date feel. You can upgrade to a bigger 11.6-inch screen, but it isn’t considered as easy to use as the Hyundai system.  

Even better, the Kona shopper can add a 12.3-inch driver information display. This is an upgrade from the 4.2-inch driver displays on both the Crosstrek and Kona.  

Both have Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio connectivity, HD radio, and Bluetooth. When it comes to music, the Hyundai’s six-speaker system is better than the 4-speaker standard on the Crosstrek.  

Another high tech touch is the Kona’s standard four USB ports. That includes two USB-C for the front row and two USB-C for the back row. One USB port is standard on the Crosstrek. As for push button start, it’s standard on the Kona, but extra on the Crosstrek.  

When it comes to Driver Assist standards, both have lane keeping technology and a forward collision avoidance system. Konas have a rear cross traffic alert and a blind spot monitor. These are offered in a Sport package or standard on the Crosstrek Limited. Furthermore, the Hyundai system has avoidance assistance for both of these critical systems.  

Does the Subaru Crosstrek Have an Electric Powertrain?

The Crosstrek does not have an electric powertrain or even a hybrid powertrain at this time. The 2024 Kona Electric really stands out with its ability to go up to 260 miles on a single charge.

Leading other subcompact SUVs, including the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, the Kona Electric has remarkable EPA estimated fuel economy. In the city, it earns 129 mpg-e. On the highway it earns 103 mpg-e.  

Conclusion

With its bigger cabin and more high tech features, the 2024 Hyundai Kona pulls ahead. Is it right for you?

Schedule a test drive and discover its charms for yourself.