2025 Honda HR-V LX vs 2026 Hyundai Kona SE
On paper, the 2025 Honda HR-V LX wins on 8.5″ longer. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $100 price gap, 158 vs 147 hp, 27 vs 28 MPG.
The HR-V LX leads on 8.5″ longer. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 LX | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,900 | $27,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 147 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 132 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 27 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 28 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 12.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,276 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 104.7" |
| Length | 179.8" | 171.3" |
| Width | 72.4" | 71.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 63.2" |
| 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 LX and 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX starts at $26,900, $100 less than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at $27,000. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $100 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V LX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda HR-V LX or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda HR-V LX or 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX produces 158 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2025 Honda HR-V LX also leads in torque at 138 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft.
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V LX bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX is 8.5″ longer at 179.8″ vs 171.3″. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE 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 LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The HR-V–Kona Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the HR-V and Kona compare. The $100 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 11 hp difference (158 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE saves roughly $56/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $280.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda HR-V LX when you want to keep $100 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V LX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
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.