2026 Honda CR-V EX vs 2026 Kia Sorento LX
3 mpg better and awd vs $2,260 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 190 vs 191 hp, 29 vs 26 MPG.
The CR-V EX leads on 3 MPG better, AWD. The Sorento LX leads on $2,260 less. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 | 2026 Kia Sorento LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $34,650 | $32,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 1.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 190 hp | 191 hp |
| Torque | 179 lb-ft | 181 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 31 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,500/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,616 lbs | 3,814 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 106.3" | 110.8" |
| Length | 184.8" | 189.6" |
| Width | 73.5" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.5" | 66.7" |
| 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 and 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX starts at $32,390, $2,260 less than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX at $34,650. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $40/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sorento LX covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX rates 29 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda CR-V EX or 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX produces 191 hp, 1 more than the 2026 Honda CR-V EX at 190 hp. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX also leads in torque at 181 lb-ft vs 179 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Honda CR-V EX, FWD on the 2026 Kia Sorento LX.
Is the 2026 Honda CR-V EX bigger than the 2026 Kia Sorento LX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento LX is 4.8″ longer at 189.6″ vs 184.8″. The 2026 Kia Sorento LX has a 4.5″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Honda CR-V EX and 2026 Kia Sorento LX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Honda CR-V comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Kia Sorento 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 Sorento trims
- 2026 Honda CR-V EX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Kia Sorento LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the CR-V and Sorento Stack Up
Two compact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX ($34,650) and 2026 Kia Sorento LX ($32,390) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-2,260 gap is about $40/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: CR-V vs Sorento
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX runs a 1.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses a 2.5L I4. The 1 hp difference (191 vs 190) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Honda CR-V EX comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Sorento LX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Honda CR-V EX saves roughly $167/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $835.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda CR-V EX when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $167/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Kia Sorento LX when you want to keep $2,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sorento LX 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.