The 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. the Hyundai Kona: Which is better?

Let’s see how these subcompact SUVs compare.   

2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer

The Chevrolet Trailblazer is offered in four trims with a choice of a turbocharged 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine with 137 horsepower or a turbo 1.3-liter 3-cylinder with 155 horsepower. Front-wheel drive with a continuously variable automatic transmission is standard. All-wheel drive is optional on any trim, which automatically includes the 155-horsepower engine and a 9-speed automatic.  

The Trailblazer interior is surprisingly roomy despite the vehicle’s small footprint, and a great safety suite is complemented by wireless smartphone integration. New updates for 2024 include an 11-inch infotainment screen, an HD backup camera, push-button start, and cruise control. Prices start at $23,100, excluding destination charges. 

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Chevrolet Trailblazer highlights 

Off-road trim: The more rugged Trailblazer Activ includes off-road-ready tires and suspension, plus a front skid plate. It also adds exterior cues like black roof rails, dual exhaust tips, unique 17-inch wheels, LED taillights, and a different grille. The Kona lineup lacks any tweaks for dirt use, preferring instead to focus on improving the vehicle’s behavior on the pavement.  

Fold-flat front seat: The Trailblazer can fit longer-than-average cargo because its front passenger seat can fold flat. This allows items up to 8.5 feet long to be stored inside, a boon for anyone who needs to haul long items. We’re looking at you, surfers.  

SUV looks: With its more upright stance and Chevy family design details; the Trailblazer appeals to the traditional SUV lover. The Kona’s futuristic looks and rounded edges give it more of a hatchback vibe than SUV. 

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2024 Hyundai Kona 

The redesigned Hyundai Kona is available in four trims with either a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower (and a continuously variable automatic transmission) or a peppier 1.6-liter turbo 4-cylinder with 190 horsepower (and a new conventional 8-speed automatic).

In standard form, the entire Kona lineup comes in front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available on any model. The Kona’s larger new body offers additional rear legroom and cargo space compared with the previous generation. A modern continuous glass panel encompasses the driver information and infotainment systems, while over-the-air software updates will be available to keep tech up to date. Standard safety features include extras like a driver attention monitor, a rear seat reminder, and a passenger safe exit warning. Pricing starts at $24,100, excluding destination charges. 

Hyundai Kona highlights 

Max cargo space: With the rear seats folded, the Kona has better than average space for the class and almost 10 cubic feet more space than the Trailblazer. For reference, that’s almost two barrels’ worth of extra room. Or almost 75 gallons of milk or water.  

Punchier engine option: The more powerful of the Kona’s two engines is a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, making 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough to hustle the subcompact SUV from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds — noticeably quicker than a Trailblazer with the optional 155-hp engine. 

Longer warranty: It doesn’t get any better than Hyundai’s industry-leading pair of warranties: five years or 60,000 miles for bumper-to-bumper basic coverage and 10 years or 100,000 miles of powertrain coverage. Chevy offers the usual three years or 36,000 miles of basic coverage, plus five years or 60,000 miles for powertrain coverage. 

Read more: The 2024 Hyundai Kona review: The subcompact SUV has been totally redesigned—here’s what’s new

Similarities 

Both SUVs are built in South Korea; both offer all-wheel drive; both have the same amount of passenger and cargo room with rear seats up; and both have fairly similar fuel economy.  

Conclusion 

The 2024 Chevy Trailblazer offers just about everything a subcompact SUV buyer needs at a reasonable price. The Chevy has more traditional yet still-modern styling with a bigger variety of interesting 2-tone color options to play with. It’s spacious for its size and offers a good amount of updated tech and safety equipment. Buyers looking to make an occasional light off-road excursion or carry long items may find the Trailblazer better suits their needs. 

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In its first year of a full redesign, the 2024 Hyundai Kona benefits from having the latest and greatest tech and design, with a cargo space exceeding that of many competitors. If you intend to stay on the roadway, the Kona’s stronger engine, generous equipment, high level of overall sophistication, and unbeatable warranty make the Hyundai our pick.  

This story originally ran on KBB.com.