Hyundai Kona vs GWM Haval Jolion
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Hyundai Kona starts from $32,500 before on-road costs, while the GWM Haval Jolion opens at $23,990. That makes the GWM Haval Jolion the more affordable entry point by $8,510.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $35,750 and $26,389 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Hyundai Kona and GWM Haval Jolion hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 80% for the Hyundai Kona and 90% for the GWM Haval Jolion.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The GWM Haval Jolion packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 2 in the Hyundai Kona.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Hyundai Kona and 6 in the GWM Haval Jolion.
Feature Showdown
The Hyundai Kona features a 12.3-inch touchscreen, while the GWM Haval Jolion gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The GWM Haval Jolion counters with power tailgate that the Hyundai Kona does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Hyundai Kona uses a Petrol producing 110kW and 180Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 9.9 seconds.
The GWM Haval Jolion responds with a Petrol making 105kW and 210Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds.
The Hyundai Kona has the clear power advantage at 110kW vs 105kW. In the real-world sprint, the GWM Haval Jolion is 0.4s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Hyundai Kona measures 4,350mm long on a 2,660mm wheelbase, 122mm shorter than the GWM Haval Jolion at 4,472mm (2,700mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the GWM Haval Jolion generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 361L in the Hyundai Kona and 400L in the GWM Haval Jolion, giving the GWM Haval Jolion a 39L advantage.
For towing, the GWM Haval Jolion leads with a 1,500kg braked capacity vs 1,300kg. That 200kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m to 12.0m
Based on 10.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 12.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,881/year for the Hyundai Kona and $1,682/year for the GWM Haval Jolion. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the GWM Haval Jolion.
Estimated annual total: $1,881 (Hyundai Kona) vs $1,682 (GWM Haval Jolion). The GWM Haval Jolion saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai Kona) vs 7 years / 999,999km (GWM Haval Jolion). The GWM Haval Jolion has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Hyundai Kona if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the GWM Haval Jolion if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, need stronger towing, or prefer GWM's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The GWM Haval Jolion takes 6 of 7 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The GWM Haval Jolion will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the GWM Haval Jolion has a clear edge. The GWM Haval Jolion adds peace of mind with a longer 7-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Hyundai Kona and GWM Haval Jolion?
The GWM Haval Jolion is the cheapest at $23,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Hyundai Kona by $8,510.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The GWM Haval Jolion uses the least fuel at 5.9L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai Kona and GWM Haval Jolion all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The GWM Haval Jolion has the largest boot at 400L.
Which can tow the most?
The GWM Haval Jolion has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The GWM Haval Jolion has the longest warranty at 7 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Hyundai Kona makes the most power at 110kW. The GWM Haval Jolion is quickest to 100km/h in 9.5s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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