The 2026 Honda HR-V vs Kia Seltos are both stylish affordable and built for modern driving making it hard to choose between them. On closer examination though the advantages of these two little SUVs diverge significantly. Depending on variable like price, technology, performance and available space one might fit your lifestyle more precisely than the other. To help you make an informed decision let’s look at the five primary difference.
1. Price: Kia Seltos Wins the Budget Battle
If you’re shopping with your wallet in mind, the Kia Seltos is the cheaper option.
While You Care for Your Car, Care for Your Child’s Future Too 💖
A fun and educational book every parent should gift their kid.
Get Kiddy Store Fortune Now
- Starting price: $23,690 for the base Seltos LX
- Honda HR-V LX: $26,200
That’s a $2,500 difference right off the bat. The Seltos also packs in must-haves like wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and rear A/C vents. The HR-V gives you extras like LED lighting and a wireless charging pad, but you’ll pay more for them.
2. Fuel Efficiency: Seltos Saves You More at the Pump
The Seltos is more efficient in terms of fuel efficiency.
- 34 mpg on the interstate and 28 mpg in the city for the Kia Seltos
- 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway for the Honda HR-V
It’s not a huge difference but if you rack up highway mile the Seltos could save you some serious gas money. Honda might level the field if the HR-V Hybrid (already available abroad) comes to the U.S., but for now, Kia takes the lead.
3. Performance: Turbocharged Seltos Brings the Fun
Most trims of both SUVs come with a 2.0-liter engine that feels… fine. But if you want extra pep, the Seltos SX is the only one in this matchup with a 1.6-liter turbo engine, giving you:
- 190 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque
- AWD standard
The HR-V tops out at 158 hp, so while it’s dependable it can’t match the Seltos SX’s punch.
4. Tech & Safety: Honda HR-V Shines Here
Here’s where the HR-V gets the edge. Every trim comes with:
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Wireless charging pad
- Full LED lighting
- Honda Sensing® safety suite (adaptive cruise, traffic jam assist and more)
Kia’s Seltos is tech-friendly too but wireless phone features are only on the base model and wireless charging doesn’t show up until higher trims.
5. Cargo Space: Kia Seltos is the Hauler
Need room for road trips, Costco runs, or gear? The larger SUV is the Seltos.
- Kia Seltos seating configurations are 26.6 cu ft (up) and 62.8 cu ft (down).
- 24.4 cubic feet (seats up) or 55.1 cubic feet (seats down) is the Honda HR-V.
If storage is a major concern, the Kia is a superior choice because of the more capacity.
Final Thought
Both SUVs are very affordable but which one you choose will depend on your top priorities:
- If you’re looking for a cheaper car more room, better fuel economy or turbocharged fun go for the Kia Seltos.
- If you value safety, high-tech amenities and don’t mind spending a bit more for peace of mind, go for the Honda HR-V.
In any case these two are some of 2026’s greatest reasonably priced crossovers.
FAQ’s
Q1. Which SUV has better safety feature?
A: The Honda HR V win with Honda Sensing standard across all trim including adaptive cruise control and traffic jam assist.
Q2. Which SUV is better for families?
A: If space is your main concern the Kia Seltos offer more cargo capacity. But if safety tech matter more the HR-V is the smarter pick.
Q3. Which is better for performance lovers?
A: The Kia Seltos SX with its 190-hp turbo engine outperform the HR-V’s 158-hp motor.
Also Read: 10 Cars That Hold Their Value Best in 2025 – Don’t Miss Out!