2026 Honda HR-V LX vs 2025 Hyundai Kona SE
8.5″ longer vs $1,950 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 158 vs 147 hp, 27 vs 28 MPG.
The HR-V LX leads on 8.5″ longer. The Kona SE leads on $1,950 less. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 LX | 2025 Hyundai Kona SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $28,000 | $26,050 |
| 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 | 3,203 lbs |
| 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 2026 Honda HR-V LX and 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE starts at $26,050, $1,950 less than the 2026 Honda HR-V LX at $28,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $34/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX is the stronger pick when you prefer the Honda approach to the subcompact SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Honda HR-V LX or 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda HR-V LX or 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX produces 158 hp, 11 more than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE at 147 hp. The 2026 Honda HR-V LX also leads in torque at 138 lb-ft vs 132 lb-ft.
Is the 2026 Honda HR-V LX bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX is 8.5″ longer at 179.8″ vs 171.3″. The 2025 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
- 2026 Honda HR-V LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 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 $-1,950 gap is about $34/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
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 2025 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 2026 Honda HR-V LX when you prefer the Honda approach to the subcompact SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Kona SE when you want to keep $1,950 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Kona 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 Hyundai or any dealership.