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Hyundai Kona vs Suzuki S-Cross comparison

Compare performance (204 HP vs 110 HP), boot space and price (23,600 £ vs 21,800 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Hyundai Kona or Suzuki S-Cross?

Hyundai Kona vs Suzuki S-Cross: Key differences

Hyundai Kona

4.6 (10 Reviews)
rate
  • substantially more power
  • slightly more efficient
  • barely more trunk space
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Suzuki S-Cross

4.6 (9 Reviews)
rate
  • barely cheaper
  • marginally lighter
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

Kona

Hyundai Kona VS Suzuki S-Cross: a compact-SUV comparison for real buyers

The Hyundai Kona VS Suzuki S-Cross match-up separates a tech- and comfort-focused small SUV from a pragmatic, value-oriented rival. The Kona presents itself as the more modern, well-equipped option with a calm, composed character that aims to make daily life easier. The S-Cross trades gloss for straightforward utility: robust kit levels, simple controls and an optional all-wheel-drive system for conditions where grip matters. Choosing between them is about whether you prioritise refinement and efficiency or low fuss practicality and traction. Below we look at how those differences play out in everyday use rather than on paper.

S-Cross

Character and driving: composed versus candid

The Hyundai Kona feels composed and grown-up, prioritising a settled ride and confident power when you ask for it, so drivers who value calm progress will appreciate its demeanour. The Suzuki S-Cross is the more candid partner: lighter steering, an eager mild-hybrid on the right spec that feels peppy around town, and a no-nonsense delivery that matches its pragmatic cabin. Where the Kona aims for insulation and polish, the S-Cross lays its engineering on the table — clever where useful, blunt where cost was saved. That means the Kona will feel smoother and more effortless on mixed routes, while the S-Cross rewards drivers who want straightforward responses and the option of extra traction. If you care about sporty feedback, neither is a hot hatch, but the Kona leans toward refinement and the S-Cross toward honesty.

Kona

Comfort and cabin feel: modern calm vs functional robustness

Step into the Hyundai Kona and the impression is immediately more modern: larger, clearer displays, thoughtful tactile controls and materials that generally feel a touch more contemporary. The Suzuki S-Cross relies on hard-wearing plastics and easy-to-use switches that will age well in the hands of a utility-first owner, but the cabin lacks the same visual refinement or quietness at speed. On longer trips the Kona’s quieter character and composed damping make fatigue less likely, whereas the S-Cross’s coarser acoustic insulation and simpler seats become more noticeable after hours on the motorway. Both are comfortable for daily use, but the Kona’s interior feels like an upgrade in perceived quality while the S-Cross trades that for robustness and simplicity. Buyers who prize a refined cabin will prefer the Kona; those who want durable, no-frills ergonomics will find the S-Cross more honest.

S-Cross

Practicality and family usability: room and cleverness vs straightforward cargo sense

In real-world family life the Hyundai Kona tends to win on usable space and luggage flexibility, with a larger boot and practical folding options that make loading a stroller or holiday kit less of a wrestling match. The Suzuki S-Cross answers with a smart, variable load floor and a well-shaped boot that works hard for daily shopping and weekend gear, plus the benefit that some hybrid layouts on the S-Cross keep packaging simple. The trade-off becomes obvious with hybrid variants: certain S-Cross hybrid systems intrude into luggage space, while the Kona’s layout generally preserves boot usability across the range. Rear-seat comfort mirrors that split — the Kona gives a bit more room and a more upscale feel, the S-Cross keeps things straightforward and accommodative for two adults. For families, the Kona leans toward convenience and versatility; the S-Cross toward pragmatic usability and easier maintenance.

Kona

City friendliness and long-distance behavior: nimble town car vs rugged commuter

Both cars are handy in the city, but the Kona’s lighter steering, tighter turning feel and more generous camera/park aids make short trips and tight spaces marginally less stressful. The S-Cross is equally manoeuvrable and brings the extra bonus of an optional ALLGRIP system that gives confidence in poor weather or unpaved lanes — a real advantage for buyers outside urban areas. On motorways the Kona’s refinement and quieter drivetrain generally make it the more comfortable long-distance companion, whereas the S-Cross can feel louder and less serene at high speed. If your life mixes urban errands with occasional country roads, the S-Cross’s traction and simple mechanical sympathy are strong arguments; if you spend more time on dual carriageways and want lower cabin noise, the Kona pulls ahead. The decision is therefore about the balance of daily ease versus occasional off-asphalt confidence.

S-Cross

Buyer fit: who should test drive which first before the technical deep dive

If you prioritise modern kit, interior calm and efficient running in everyday use, start your test drive with the Hyundai Kona — it suits tech-oriented small families and commuters who value refinement. If your checklist emphasises straightforward controls, equipment for the money and the reassurance of optional all-wheel traction, the Suzuki S-Cross should be at the top of your list. Those on a stricter budget or who frequently face slippery roads will appreciate what the S-Cross offers without the frills, while buyers who want quieter motorway miles and more cabin polish will prefer the Kona. With those buyer fits in mind, the next step is a technical comparison to see how engines, packaging and options map to your specific priorities.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Kona

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

Suzuki S-Cross is barely cheaper – starting at 21,800 £ , while the Hyundai Kona costs 23,600 £ . That’s a price difference of around 1,809 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Hyundai Kona uses 4.6 L/100km and is slightly more efficient than the Suzuki S-Cross with 5.3 L/100km. The difference is about 0.7 L/100km.

S-Cross

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai Kona offers substantially more power – delivering 204 HP compared to 110 HP. That’s roughly 94 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai Kona delivers slightly more torque with 265 Nm compared to 235 Nm. That’s about 30 Nm more.

Kona

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, Suzuki S-Cross is marginally lighter – 1,280 kg compared to 1,370 kg. The difference is around 90 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Hyundai Kona offers barely more boot space – 466 L compared to 430 L. That’s a difference of about 36 L.

When it comes to payload, the Hyundai Kona carries somewhat more – 490 kg compared to 405 kg. That’s a difference of about 85 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai Kona is clearly superior overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £23,600
Kona

Hyundai Kona

  • Engine Type Petrol, Full Hybrid, Electric
  • Transmission Manual, Automatic
  • Drive Type Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 115 - 204 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 4.6 - 7 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km 14.6 - 16.1 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range 380 - 510 km
Hyundai Kona
Suzuki S-Cross

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a compact crossover that pairs bold styling with practical everyday usability, offering a comfortable cabin and intuitive tech for modern drivers. Available in both conventional and electrified versions, Kona brings lively handling and strong value for buyers who want crossover versatility and standout character.

details

Suzuki S-Cross

The Suzuki S-Cross is a practical, well-built compact crossover that puts comfort, efficiency and everyday reliability first. With a roomy cabin, straightforward technology and sensible design, it’s a no-nonsense choice for buyers seeking a versatile family car.

details
Hyundai Kona
Suzuki S-Cross

Costs and Consumption

Price
23,600 - 41,900 £
Price
21,800 - 34,200 £
Consumption L/100km
4.6 - 7 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
5.3 - 5.8 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
14.6 - 16.1 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
380 - 510 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 163 g/km
co2
119 - 138 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,370 - 1,773 kg
Curb weight
1,280 - 1,385 kg
Trunk capacity
466 L
Trunk capacity
430 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,825 mm
Width
1,785 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
420 - 490 kg
Payload
395 - 405 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Electric
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
115 - 204 HP
Power HP
110 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.1 - 11.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
200 - 265 Nm
Torque
235 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
85 - 150 kW
Power kW
81 kW
Engine capacity
998 - 1,598 cm3
Engine capacity
1,373 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, E, F, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Suzuki
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.