2026 Honda HR-V EX-L vs 2025 Toyota Corolla SE
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a subcompact SUV or a compact car. Key numbers: 158 vs 169 hp, 27 vs 34 MPG.
The HR-V EX-L leads on AWD. The Corolla SE leads on $7,085 less, 7 MPG better. 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 HR-V EX-L | 2025 Toyota Corolla SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,850 | $24,765 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 169 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 40 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,336 lbs | 3,110 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 106.3" |
| Length | 179.8" | 182.5" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.1" |
| Height | 63.4" | 56.5" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2025 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE starts at $24,765, $7,085 less than the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L at $31,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $125/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,085 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $321/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2025 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE rates 34 combined MPG, 7 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2025 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE produces 169 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L at 158 hp. The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE also leads in torque at 151 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L, FWD on the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE.
Is the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L bigger than the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE is 2.7″ longer at 182.5″ vs 179.8″. The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE has a 1.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (subcompact SUV vs compact car), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2025 Toyota Corolla SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L comes with AWD, while the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE 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.
Can I cross-shop a subcompact SUV against a compact car?
Yes, and many buyers do. A subcompact SUV and a compact car solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda HR-V trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla trims
- 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Toyota Corolla SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the HR-V and Corolla Stack Up
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L is a subcompact SUV; the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE is a compact car. They share a price range but not a purpose, which makes this comparison about lifestyle priorities, not trim-level features. The $-7,085 gap adds up to $125/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: HR-V vs Corolla
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 11 hp difference (169 vs 158) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L comes with AWD; the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE saves roughly $321/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,605.
Size, Space, and Daily Reality
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2025 Toyota Corolla SE is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE when you want to keep $7,085 in your pocket and the 2025 Toyota Corolla SE 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 Toyota or any dealership.