2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2025 Hyundai Kona
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Hyundai Kona compete in the compact SUV segment with very different approaches to performance, design, and driving versatility. The Crosstrek brings a purpose-built design focused on control, ground clearance, and year-round capability.
The Kona targets city drivers with sleek bodies, a tech-forward interior, and multiple powertrain options. Both models offer advanced safety features, upgraded infotainment systems, and comfortable cabins, but each caters to a different driving style and set of priorities.
Design & Style
The Crosstrek stands out with its high stance, rugged body cladding, and functional exterior features. Roof rails come standard, and its higher ground clearance signals that it can handle uneven roads or rough conditions without hesitation. The interior balances comfort with utility by offering water-resistant seating materials, smart storage, and strong visibility. Everything feels designed for drivers who go beyond basic commuting.
The Kona uses a more modern and urban-friendly approach. Its sharp headlights, contrasting body panels, and available two-tone paint give it a bold city style. Inside, the cabin brings a digital feel with slim vents, bright color options, and a driver-focused layout. While it looks great in traffic, the Kona’s lower ride height and compact rear seats reduce versatility when compared to more trail-ready SUVs.
Technology & Safety
The Crosstrek features an available 11.6-inch touchscreen and a simple, well-organized layout with physical knobs for volume and temperature. All models come with Subaru EyeSight, which includes lane centering, pre-collision braking, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together without overcomplicating the experience or distracting the driver from the road.
The Kona introduces a curved panoramic display that combines a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen infotainment. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Hyundai’s SmartSense driver assistance features. The Kona offers a tech-rich cabin, but some safety systems require extra packages or higher trims. The user interface feels more advanced, but less intuitive while driving.
Performance
The Crosstrek comes standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and offers two gas engines: a 2.0-liter for casual driving and a 2.5-liter for drivers who need more passing power. Its suspension tuning handles both paved and unpaved surfaces with balance, giving the driver confidence in changing weather or terrain without switching modes or selecting drive settings.
The Kona offers front-wheel drive as standard and available all-wheel drive for select trims. Its base engine focuses on efficiency, while the available turbocharged option adds a sportier edge. Electric and hybrid variants target eco-conscious drivers but limit range in certain climates. Ride quality feels light and responsive around town, but lacks the same grounded feel when roads get rough.
The Bottom Line
The Crosstrek delivers real-world utility with a platform that works in all weather and across multiple surfaces. It includes safety technology across every trim and uses space efficiently with a comfortable cabin and generous cargo capacity.
The Kona offers bold style and modern tech with an efficient powertrain lineup, but it limits its flexibility with a lower stance and urban-first design. Both vehicles deliver value, but one leans more into everyday adventure and long-term usability.
Schedule a Test Drive Today
Step into a compact SUV that handles more than just daily traffic. Visit Empire Subaru of Huntington to schedule a test drive and see how the Crosstrek delivers the performance, control, and confidence you expect on every road.
