2026 Hyundai Kona SE vs 2026 Honda HR-V LX
$1,000 less vs 8.5″ longer. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $1,000 price gap, 147 vs 158 hp, 28 vs 27 MPG.
The Kona SE leads on $1,000 less. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Kona SE | 2026 Honda HR-V LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $27,000 | $28,000 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 147 hp | 158 hp |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 27 | 25 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 30 |
| Combined MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Fuel Tank | 12.4 gal | 14.0 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,600/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 3,276 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.7" | 104.5" |
| Length | 171.3" | 179.8" |
| Width | 71.9" | 72.4" |
| Height | 63.2" | 63.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE and 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE starts at $27,000, $1,000 less than the 2026 Honda HR-V LX at $28,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $18/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $56/year less on fuel.
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.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE rates 28 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE or 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 Honda HR-V LX produces 158 hp, 11 more than the 2026 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 Hyundai Kona SE bigger than the 2026 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2026 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 Hyundai Kona comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Honda HR-V offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Kona trims, Honda trims, Honda HR-V trims
- 2026 Hyundai Kona SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Honda HR-V LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
How the Kona and HR-V Stack Up
Two subcompact SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Hyundai Kona SE ($27,000) and 2026 Honda HR-V LX ($28,000) solve similar problems in different ways. The $1,000 gap is about $18/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Kona vs HR-V
Both run the same 2.0L I4 engine. The 11 hp difference (158 vs 147) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
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.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE when you want to keep $1,000 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Kona SE covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Honda HR-V LX when you prefer the Honda approach to the subcompact SUV segment. At $18/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 Hyundai or Honda or any dealership.