The 2023 Hyundai Kona vs The 2023 Honda HRV

The subcompact SUV is an excellent choice for either a solo driver or the most active family road trips. They’re usually agile and efficient but also powerful, and they may offer off-roading features or special editions for those who like to go off the beaten path. Here’s a thorough comparison of the 2023 Hyundai KONA and the 2023 Honda HR-V, two popular subcompact SUVs. Although both seat five and have similar features, you’ll find several important differences that may affect your decision.

Trim Levels and Style

The 2023 KONA is unique from most subcompact SUVs today, available as either a gasoline or full-electric vehicle. The gasoline KONA has four trim levels: SE, SEL, N Line, and Limited, while the electric KONA has three: SE, SEL, and Limited. The 2023 Honda HR-V is similar and comes in three trims: LX, Sport, and EX-L. The Limited models of either KONA bring appealing upgrades, such as dark gray body accents, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED exterior lights, and leather seating.

Judging the appearance of any two vehicles will be subjective. However, Hyundai deserves credit for pursuing some bold looks with the 2023 Hyundai KONA. Honda, on the other hand, has only altered the HR-V once, and it remains essentially unchanged since its introduction in 2016. Those who like the style will continue to prefer the Honda, but we appreciate Hyundai’s will to redesign and refresh how its vehicles look. The HR-V does get pretty fancy on the EX-L, with standard heated mirrors with turn signals, but we find either version of the KONA to be a more attractive offer.

Engine and Horsepower

It’s always wonderful to have alternatives, and it’s excellent to have multiple engine possibilities to hopefully meet everyone’s demands. The HR-V’s inline four-cylinder engine produces 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque in all trim levels. It’s a dependable and fuel-efficient engine, but it’s the only option available.

The 2023 KONA gives you much greater choice. The basic gas-powered version sports a 147-horsepower 2.0-liter MPI-Atkinson four-cylinder engine with 132 lb-ft of torque. The base electric KONA features a 201-horsepower motor with 291 lb-ft of torque and an estimated charge range of 258 miles. The N trim level sports a potent 276-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine with 289 lb-ft of torque.

Performance

The KONA has variable-assist power steering, which gives you more control at highway speeds and through fast bends. The HR-V, which is less focused on performance quality, lacks that feature. The KONA is 2.2 inches shorter than the HR-V, making it easier to drive, move, and park in tight spaces. The turning circle of the KONA is 0.3 feet smaller than that of the HR-V, at 34.8 feet vs. 35.1 feet. You don’t have to select the electric KONA to get a more efficient ride, either, as standard gasoline KONA models weigh about 250 pounds less than the HR-V.

Both vehicles offer all-wheel drive for enhanced control, including while off-roading. The Hyundai KONA has a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox that provides smooth operation and faster gear changes. The KONA Electric is the exception, sporting a unique one-speed traditional automatic. The Honda crossover includes a continuously variable transmission gearbox, and some drivers prefer the more nuanced, traditional feel of an automatic or manual shifter. Regarding fuel economy, the HR-V earns 28 combined mpg, while the gasoline KONA scores up to 32 combined mpg.

Interior

While both cars are built with lots of space for comfort and storage, the interior of the HR-V offers a maximum of 55.1 cubic feet of luggage capacity, while the KONA has 45.8 cubic feet. That said, when comparing how the passenger space is divided, many drivers in Auburn, Alabama, might prefer a 2023 KONA. Hyundai’s model has 4.8 inches more rear hip space and 0.2 inches more front headroom than the HR-V.

In terms of technology, the KONA boasts additional options, including a 10.25-inch touch-screen display available on all models, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a digital key for remote locking and other functions. Even the standard 8.0-inch touch-screen display works well and is easy to learn. The Hyundai KONA comes standard with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

While the Honda HR-V also offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it doesn’t have wireless versions unless you opt for the most expensive EX-L grade. The Honda HR-V has a 7.0-inch touch screen with a few buttons and a volume knob, but the menu may be more difficult to use for some drivers. Overall, the availability of a larger replacement screen and a larger baseline screen put the 2023 Hyundai KONA well ahead of the HR-V.

Safety Features

The KONA incorporates a blind-spot warning system, which employs sensors to alert the driver to objects in zones not visible from the side-view mirrors. The HR-V is equipped with a blind-spot warning system as standard, but only on the Sport and EX-L trims. This difference also applies to the rear cross-traffic warning system, which uses sensors in the rear bumper to notify the driver of cars approaching from the side. This feature is ideal for safely pulling out of a crowded parking lot.

Both the KONA and the HR-V are equipped with driver and passenger front air bags, side-impact head air bags, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, front-wheel drive, and height-adjustable front shoulder belts. You’ll also get four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, front side-impact air bags, electronic stability systems, daytime running lights, lane departure warning systems, rearview cameras, driver alert monitors, and rear parking sensors.

2023 Hyundai KONA vs. 2023 Honda HRV: Winner

Overall, despite their similar exterior appearances, sizes, and number of trims, there are significant differences between the Hyundai KONA and the Honda HR-V that you should consider when making your decision. Hyundai KONA outperforms the competition in terms of power, performance, safety features, and technology updates.

Ready To Get In Your Own 2023 Hyundai Kona?

If you’re interested in the 2023 Hyundai KONA or any other new, certified pre-owned, or used Hyundai vehicle, schedule a test drive now at Hyundai of Auburn, Alabama. Our friendly, knowledgeable team is glad to answer any questions you may have about driving your very own KONA.

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