You bet it’s true: Small SUVs are a big deal. Perhaps that’s nowhere more apparent than in the booming subcompact SUV segment, where automakers’ smallest offerings are being stuffed with the latest creature comforts, technology, and exciting powertrains. The 2025 Hyundai Kona and 2025 Honda HR-V are two prime examples in this segment. Both SUVs are freshly revamped for a second generation. Here’s how they stack up.
2025 Hyundai Kona
Our top pick for among the Best Subcompact SUVs for 2024 and 2025, the Hyundai Kona was totally redesigned for last year; however, it’s not resting on its laurels for 2025. The most notable enhancements are two new trims: SEL Convenience and N Line S. This brings the grade count to six. Prices start at $25,745.
Hyundai Kona Highlights
Striking premium features: Hyundai has packed the Kona with available features like its terrific Blind-Spot View Monitor live camera system, dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays, remote parking system, hands-free power tailgate, heated/ventilated seats, and a navigation-based adaptive cruise control system. Many luxury cars still can’t claim all this.
Powertrain options: Kona buyers have a choice between two gasoline-engined models, including one with a peppy 190-horsepower turbo upgrade. Buyers can also opt for the Kona Electric, an all-electric model with an estimated range of up to 261 miles. The Honda HR-V offers one engine, a 158-horsepower 4-cylinder.
More cargo room: The Honda HR-V used to be the benchmark for cargo-hauling in this class, but the Kona now has the edge in this match. It touts 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.7 with them down. Compare that to the HR-V’s 24.4 and 55.1 cubic feet.
Read our Hyundai Kona Expert Review or see 2025 Hyundai Kona models for sale near you.
2025 Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V got a significant revamp in 2023 with this latest generation based on the Honda Civic. Consequently, Honda chose to leave it be for this year. Honda’s smallest SUV is a balance of ride quality, handling, and comfort that belies its size. Every trim level comes with Honda’s well-regarded safety suite, its reputation for reliability, and resale value. Prices start at $26,750.
Honda HR-V Highlights
Honda Sensing: This suite of advanced tech bundles features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, and it’s standard in every HR-V.
Smart Entry with Walk-Away Auto Lock: Standard in the top two grades, this convenience feature allows you to never wonder again if you locked your HR-V. If you have the key fob on your person, the doors automatically lock when you walk away from the vehicle.
EX-L: This top trim is loaded with features like leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat – all welcome features to have in a subcompact SUV.
Read our Honda HR-V Expert Review or see 2025 Honda HR-V models for sale near you.
Similarities
The Hyundai Kona and Honda HR-V are both versatile and compelling values in the small SUV segment. Only $1,000 separates their starting prices, and can both be optioned with all-wheel drive.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Kona offers more choices than the Honda HR-V, both in the number of trims and powertrain. It also boasts more tech features, more amenities, and a longer warranty. The Honda HR-V has a simple, easy-to-navigate trim lineup and an enviable reputation for reliability and resale value. Which of these traits lines up with your needs will lead to the right pick for you.
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2025 Hyundai Kona vehicles and New 2025 Honda HR-V vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2025 Hyundai Kona | 2025 Honda HR-V | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 158 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 138 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm |
| Transmission | CVT automatic | CVT automatic |
| Fuel Economy | 29 city/34 highway/31 combined mpg | 26 city/32 highway/28 combined mpg |
| Also Available | AWD; turbo 4-cylinder; all-electric | AWD |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 4 stars | 5 stars |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 104.7 inches | 104.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 171.3 inches | 179.8 inches |
| Width | 71.9 inches | 72.4 inches |
| Height | 62.2 inches | 63.4 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 feet | 35.1 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 39.9 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Headroom, Rear | 38.3 inches | 38.0 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.7 inches | 41.9 inches |
| Legroom, Rear | 38.2 inches | 37.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 56.8 inches | 56.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Rear | 55.2 inches | 55.2 inches |
| Cargo Volume | 25.5/63.7 cubic feet | 24.4/55.1 cubic feet |
