2026 Hyundai KONA vs. VENUE: Power, Features, and Value Compared
2026 Hyundai KONA vs. VENUE: Power, Features, and Value Compared
Posted on October 22, 2025
Small compact SUVs remain popular among Winnipeg drivers who value fuel efficiency and easy parking without sacrificing cargo space. The 2026 VENUE offers affordable entry-level motoring with a 1.6 L engine and standard heated seats, while the 2026 KONA provides more power, available all-wheel drive, and upgraded technology. The KONA’s larger engine options and advanced driver assistance features appeal to buyers seeking enhanced performance on Manitoba’s varied terrain.
Choosing between the VENUE and KONA depends on your budget, daily driving needs, and feature priorities. Both deliver value, but they serve different segments of the small compact SUV market.
At a Glance: 2026 VENUE vs. 2026 KONA
| Feature | 2026 VENUE | 2026 KONA (2.0L) | 2026 KONA N Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.6 L 4-cylinder | 2.0 L 4-cylinder | 1.6 L turbocharged 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 121 hp | 147 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 113 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | IVT (CVT-style) | IVT (CVT-style) | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive only | FWD standard; optional HTRAC AWD | HTRAC AWD standard |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 7.5 L/100 km | 7.5 L/100 km (FWD); 8.5–8.6 L/100 km (AWD) | 9.0 L/100 km |
| Heated Front Seats | Standard (all trims) | Standard (all trims) | Standard |
| Heated Steering Wheel | Standard (Preferred, Ultimate) | Standard (Preferred and up) | Standard |
| Infotainment Screen | 8 inches | 12.3 inches (all trims) | 12.3 inches |
| Digital Gauge Cluster | 4.2 inches | 4.2 inches (Essential, Preferred); 12.3 inches (N Line) | 12.3 inches |
| Wireless Charging | Not available | Standard (Preferred with Trend Package and up) | Standard |
| Driver Assistance | FCA, LKA, DAW, HBA | FCA with Pedestrian/Cyclist, LFA/LKA, BCW, RCCA | FCA with Junction Turning, Smart Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist |
Performance and Efficiency
The VENUE uses a 1.6 L 4-cylinder engine paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission, delivering 121 horsepower and achieving 7.5 L/100 km combined fuel economy. Front-wheel drive is the only drivetrain option, which helps keep costs down but limits capability on slippery roads. The VENUE includes Drive Mode Select (Snow, Mud, Sand) on Preferred and Ultimate trims, adjusting throttle response for different conditions.
The KONA steps up with a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It also uses an IVT transmission and offers optional HTRAC all-wheel drive on Essential and Preferred trims, becoming standard on Preferred with Trend Package. AWD adds traction for Manitoba winters. Fuel economy for the 2.0 L KONA ranges from 7.5 L/100 km (FWD) to 8.5–8.6 L/100 km (AWD) combined, depending on trim.
The KONA N Line upgrades to a 1.6 L turbocharged engine with 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard HTRAC AWD. This delivers stronger acceleration and a sportier driving experience, though fuel economy increases to 9.0 L/100 km combined. The N Line includes column-mounted shift-by-wire and paddle shifters for manual control.
Key Differences:
- VENUE: 121 hp, 7.5 L/100 km, front-wheel drive only, IVT
- KONA 2.0L: 147 hp, 7.5–8.6 L/100 km (depending on drivetrain), optional AWD, IVT
- KONA N Line: 190 hp, 9.0 L/100 km, standard AWD, 8-speed automatic
Interior and Technology
Both models seat five and include heated front seats as standard equipment. The VENUE’s cabin is straightforward, with cloth seating, an 8-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add a leather-wrapped heated steering wheel, proximity keyless entry with push-button start, and remote start. The VENUE’s smaller footprint (4,040 mm length) makes it easier to park in tight urban spaces compared to the KONA (4,350–4,385 mm length).
The KONA provides more refinement. All trims come with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bluelink Connected Car System, and four USB-C ports. Essential and Preferred trims include a 4.2-inch gauge cluster, while N Line upgrades to a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless device charging is standard on Preferred with Trend Package and higher. Leatherette seating is available on Preferred with Trend Package, while the N Line features leather and suede combination seats with red stitching and N Line badging.
The KONA N Line adds ambient lighting (64 colours), metal sport pedals, and deluxe door scuff plates. Its sportier interior complements the turbocharged engine and enhanced suspension tuning.
Feature Highlights:
- VENUE: 8-inch touchscreen, cloth seats, compact dimensions (4,040 mm length)
- KONA 2.0L: 12.3-inch touchscreen, available wireless charging, leatherette seating (Trend Package and up)
- KONA N Line: 12.3-inch digital cluster, ambient lighting, sport seats with red stitching
Safety and Driver Assistance
The VENUE includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keeping Assist, Driver Attention Warning, High Beam Assist, and Rear Occupant Alert as standard. Preferred and Ultimate trims add Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-traffic Collision Warning.
The KONA builds on this foundation with more advanced systems. All trims include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection, Lane Following Assist and Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-traffic Collision Avoidance-Assist, Safe Exit Warning, and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. Preferred trims add Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go, while the N Line includes Highway Driving Assist for semi-autonomous lane centering.
The N Line with Ultimate Package further upgrades with Surround View Monitor, Blind View Monitor, Remote Smart Parking Assist, Parking Distance Warning (Forward, Side, Reverse), and Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist (Reverse).
Both models meet modern safety standards, but the KONA provides more advanced features for buyers prioritizing driver assistance technology.
Cargo and Practicality
The VENUE’s compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre in Winnipeg’s narrow streets and parking garages. Cargo space measures 528 L behind the rear seats, expanding to 902 L with the rear seats folded. This is adequate for groceries and weekend gear, though larger items require folding the rear seats. Ground clearance is 170 mm, which is sufficient for light snow but not ideal for deeper winter conditions.
The KONA offers more cargo volume at 723 L behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,803 L with the seats folded. The longer wheelbase (2,660 mm vs. 2,520 mm) and wider body provide extra room for passengers and luggage. Ground clearance ranges from 170 mm (FWD) to 205 mm (AWD 2.0L) and 210 mm (N Line), improving capability in snow.
For buyers who need maximum space and winter capability, the KONA is the better choice. For those prioritizing affordability, simplicity, and easy parking, the VENUE delivers.
Dimensions and Ground Clearance Comparison
| Dimension | 2026 VENUE | 2026 KONA (2.0L) | 2026 KONA N Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 2,520 mm | 2,660 mm | 2,660 mm |
| Length | 4,040 mm | 4,350 mm | 4,385 mm |
| Width | 1,770 mm | 1,825 mm | 1,825 mm |
| Height | 1,565 mm (1,590 mm with roof rails) | 1,580–1,585 mm (FWD); 1,605–1,610 mm (AWD) | 1,615 mm |
| Ground Clearance | 170 mm | 170 mm (FWD); 205 mm (AWD) | 210 mm |
| Cargo Volume (seats up/down) | 528 L / 902 L | 723 L / 1,803 L | 723 L / 1,803 L |
Which Model is Right for You?
Choose the 2026 VENUE if you want the most affordable entry into Hyundai’s SUV lineup. It suits city driving, tight parking, and buyers who don’t need all-wheel drive or advanced technology. The VENUE delivers excellent fuel economy (7.5 L/100 km) and essential features at a lower price point.
Choose the 2026 KONA 2.0L if you want more power, available AWD, and a larger touchscreen. The 2.0 L engine provides better acceleration than the VENUE, while optional AWD improves winter traction. Fuel economy remains competitive at 7.5–8.6 L/100 km combined, depending on drivetrain.
Choose the 2026 KONA N Line if you want the strongest performance in the small compact SUV class. The turbocharged engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, and standard AWD deliver a sportier driving experience. The N Line also includes the most advanced technology and driver assistance features, including Highway Driving Assist and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Experience the 2026 VENUE and KONA at Winnipeg Hyundai
Both the VENUE and KONA offer practical, efficient transportation for Manitoba drivers. Visit Winnipeg Hyundai in Winnipeg to compare them side by side and find the model that fits your needs. Book your test drive today and see which small compact SUV suits your lifestyle.