The Kia Niro and Hyundai Kona are two efficient, inexpensive crossover SUVs that should be on your radar, but how do they compare to each other? Both pack a lot of punch in terms of performance and features, but each offers something a little different. Let’s dive into what makes them stand out in this detailed 2025 Kia Niro vs 2025 Hyundai Kona crossover comparison!
Key Takeaways
- For 2025, the Niro lineup gets just a few small updates.
- As of April 23, 2025, pricing for the 2025 Niro ranges from $28,385 to $42,185; the Hyundai Kona is $26,000 and goes up to $33,550.
- The Niro is one of the most efficient crossovers on the market.
Which Compact Crossover Features More Trims: 2025 Kia Niro
The Niro keeps changes minimal this year. The blacked-out C-pillar that used to show up on select trims is gone. If you're eyeing the SX Touring PHEV, you’ll now get the Cold Weather package—complete with an auxiliary heater and heated rear seats—built right in. Perfect for those chilly mornings!
Prices and trims for 2025 include many affordable options:
- LX: $28,385
- EX: $31,185
- EX Touring: $33,485
- SX: $34,385
- EX PHEV: $35,885
- SX Touring: $36,785
- SX Touring PHEV: $42,185
The Kona received its glow-up in 2024, so its changes are mostly trim-specific for 25. Hyundai introduces a new trim in the lineup, the N Line S. It skips out on a few upscale features like the premium audio system, adaptive cruise control, and sunroof of the N Line but keeps its engine.
Also, what used to be the SEL trim with the Convenience package is now its own standalone model, the SEL Convenience.
Kona lineup prices are:
- SE: $26,000
- SEL: $27,350
- SEL Convenience: $29,550
- N Line S: $31,000
- N Line: $32,550
- Limited: $33,550
Which Crossover’s Engine Is More Powerful? It’s a Tie
The Kia Niro keeps things efficient and city-friendly with its 139 hp 4-cylinder engine and electric motor combo, mated 6-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. If you're eyeing the PHEV, you’ll get about 33 miles of all-electric range thanks to its 11.1-kWh battery.
The Kona’s lineup features two powertrain possibilities:
- A standard 147-hp 2.0-liter mated with a continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- An optional turbocharged 190-hp 1.6-liter paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission
- Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive is available across the board.
Which Compact Crossover Gets Better Fuel Efficiency: 2025 Kia Niro
Stacking these two crossovers up against each other is kind of like comparing apples to oranges—especially since one’s a fuel-sipping hybrid. But let’s be honest, the Niro’s fuel economy is a major win. Trims with 16-inch wheels, like the LX, EX, and SX, score an outstanding 53 mpg overall. Even the more feature-packed EX Touring and SX Touring with 18-inch wheels still manage a solid 49 mpg.
The Kona gets 29 mpg/city and 34 mpg/highway, which is certainly respectable, but the Niro can’t be topped.
Which Compact Crossover Should You Choose: 2025 Kia Niro
While the Niro is more expensive at the outset, it’s more affordable in the long run, as its fuel economy will save you more money! Stop by today and experience the Niro for yourself!