2025 Honda HR-V EX-L vs 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited
$3,150 less and 8.5″ longer vs 32 more hp and 57 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $3,150 price gap, 158 vs 190 hp, 27 vs 26 MPG.
The HR-V EX-L leads on $3,150 less, 8.5″ longer. The Kona Limited leads on 32 more hp, 57 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L | 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,000 | $34,150 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 1.6L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 190 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 195 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,333 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 104.7" |
| Length | 179.8" | 171.3" |
| Width | 72.4" | 71.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 63.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L starts at $31,000, $3,150 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited at $34,150. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $55/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $59/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited is the stronger pick when the extra 32 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L rates 27 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited produces 190 hp, 32 more than the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L at 158 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited also leads in torque at 195 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L is 8.5″ longer at 179.8″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited has a 0.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda HR-V comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Kona offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda HR-V trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims
- 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
HR-V vs Kona: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $3,150 gap adds up to $55/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited uses a 1.6L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited has 32 more hp (190 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited adds 57 more lb-ft of torque (195 vs 138), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: HR-V vs Kona
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L saves roughly $59/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $295.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L when you want to keep $3,150 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited when the extra 32 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $55/month more, the 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Hyundai or any dealership.