Chevrolet
Trax
Owner report available
Hyundai
Kona
Owner report available
Chevrolet Trax vs Hyundai Kona
The short answer
Based on available data, the Hyundai Kona comes out ahead of the Chevrolet Trax on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Trax
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by generation. For the first-generation models (approximately 2014-2022), owner feedback is overwhelmingly negative, characterized by very frequent and severe mechanical failures leading to high repair costs and widespread distrust. Common catastrophic issues include turbocharger failures, timing chain problems, and complete engine failures, often occurring before 100,000 miles.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to identify a "best" version. For the new generation, an owner notes the LT trim offers a good balance of features.
Known issues
- **First Generation (2014-2022 w/ 1.4L Turbo Engine):** Turbocharger failure: Requires replacement, often linked to other engine damage. Cost reports range from $2,100 to $6,000. Frequency: very frequent.
- Engine failure: Catastrophic failures including melted cylinders, holes in engine blocks, and complete replacements. Often occurs under 100,000 miles. Frequency: very frequent.
- Timing chain issues: Causes persistent check engine lights (P0016, P0017 codes) and requires expensive replacement. Frequency: very frequent.
Kona
Overall
Sentiment is sharply divided by powertrain and generation, with no clear consensus. Long-term owners of first-generation (approx. 2018-2023) gasoline models report a high frequency of significant mechanical and electrical issues, including chronic engine problems, rough idling, stalling, and oil consumption, leading to frustration and diminished trust in the brand. In contrast, feedback on the electric Kona (EV) is generally positive, with owners praising its reliability, range retention over high mileage, and value, though some note traction issues with front-wheel drive.
Best version to buy
For gasoline models, higher trims with the 1.6L turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission (DCT) are consistently recommended over base 2.0L models, which are criticized for feeling underpowered and cheap. The Limited (or equivalent top trim) is specified for its 8-speed automatic transmission (non-CVT) and premium features.
Known issues
- Chronic engine problems (stalling, rough idle, failure to start, excessive oil consumption) in first-generation gasoline models (approx. 2018-2023). Frequency: very frequent.
- Transmission issues: "Laggy" or "jumpy" feeling in DCT models; concerns over CVT reliability. Frequency: recurrent.
- Electrical and infotainment glitches: Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity failures, random warning lights (check engine, collision avoidance), HVAC system malfunctioning. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Hyundai Kona is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chevrolet Trax, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chevrolet Trax is worth a closer look instead.
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Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Trax or the Hyundai Kona?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Trax and the Hyundai Kona. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Trax or the Hyundai Kona?
Data on family-specific factors like cargo space is limited for one or both models, but based on available reports, both are positioned as practical daily drivers. Check the specs table above for seating and body type.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Trax or the Hyundai Kona?
The EPA rates the 2026 Chevrolet Trax at 29–30 mpg combined and the 2027 Hyundai Kona at 26–31 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Trax or the Hyundai Kona?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chevrolet Trax than the Hyundai Kona. See the known issues comparison above.