Why The Chevrolet Trailblazer is a Better Choice Than the Hyundai Kona

Chevy revived the Trailblazer name for use on a subcompact SUV instead of the larger, truck-based SUV we saw in the early 2000s. It’s a practical, spacious, and value-forward vehicle with attractive styling and user-friendly driving dynamics. It’s not lacking competition, however, as the subcompact segment is packed with solid alternatives. The Hyundai Kona is one of the Trailblazer’s most direct rivals, but even with its recent redesign for 2024, the Chevy can be a better option for many buyers. 

In terms of driving experience, the Trailblazer is more complete and offers slightly better off-road capabilities than the Kona. We’re not talking rock-crawling or heavy-duty trail driving with either vehicle, but Chevy gave the Trailblazer enough ground clearance to take you well off the beaten path. Both SUVs have available all-wheel drive. Having said that, the Trailblazer offers better in-town fuel economy, with the base model delivering 26 mpg in the city compared to the Kona’s 24 mpg.

Styling is another area where these two diverge. Hyundai’s recent Kona redesign gave it a funky, futuristic look that makes it unlike anything else in the segment. While some may like the style, it’s a polarizing look that isn’t for everyone. The front LED lighting features a light bar stretching from side to side, and the almost Robocop-like front end is striking, to say the least. 

The Trailblazer is more traditional with its style, offering slim headlights, a sleek grille shape, and sculpted sides. Chevy offers two-tone paint options for the SUV, along with several wheel and color choices. Even in the boldest hues, the Trailblazer looks far more traditional than the Kona, and will be more appealing to many buyers.

The two SUVs are pretty evenly matched on interior space, but the Trailblazer offers better rear legroom and headroom. Despite that, it’s short on cargo space compared to the Kona. The Chevy also has a smaller standard touchscreen, at seven inches, compared to the Kona’s 12.3. Even so, the two offer almost the same number of tech features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, SiriusXM radio, HD radio, and more. 

Though the Kona has a longer ten-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, the Trailblazer has a stronger J.D. Power predicted reliability score. It’s rated at 86/100 compared to the Kona’s 82/100, and Chevy offers a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

Come see us at Twin Falls Chevrolet to learn more about the new Chevy Trailblazer. We have several units to choose from and will be happy to show you the ins and outs of the tech, safety features, and performance.