2026 Honda CR-V EX-L vs 2026 Kia Sportage EX
3 mpg better vs $4,510 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 187 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The CR-V EX-L leads on 3 MPG better. The Sportage EX leads on $4,510 less. 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 | 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L | 2026 Kia Sportage EX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,900 | $32,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,635 lbs | 3,827 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 108.5" |
| Length | 184.8" | 184.4" |
| Width | 73.5" | 73.4" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.3" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L and 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX starts at $32,390, $4,510 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L at $36,900. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $80/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Kia Sportage EX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,510 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sportage EX covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L or 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L produces 190 hp, 3 more than the 2026 Kia Sportage EX at 187 hp. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L also leads in torque at 179 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sportage EX uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Kia Sportage EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L is 0.4″ longer at 184.8″ vs 184.4″. The 2026 Kia Sportage EX has a 2.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda CR-V comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Sportage 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 CR-V trims, Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Sportage EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The CR-V–Sportage Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the CR-V and Sportage compare. The $-4,510 gap adds up to $80/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sportage EX uses a 2.5L I4. The 3 hp difference (190 vs 187) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX-L when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Kia Sportage EX when you want to keep $4,510 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sportage EX covers your needs.
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 Kia or any dealership.