The Honda HR-V is often called dull or boring, like anything else in the parking lot. In comparison, the Kona is praised for its edgy styling by none other than Motor Trend. The critics appreciate the vehicle’s futuristic exterior design, saying it breaks through the noise.

 The new exterior design is wider and longer, which means more space in the cabin. The cockpit is more high tech with top technology tools on the entry level model. Konas took home a WardsAuto Best Interiors & UX Award for their high-tech, well-equipped interior.

Interior Space and Cargo: Kona Takes the Advantage

Before the 2024 makeover, the HR-V was a bit bigger than the Kona. Those days are gone with the new larger, longer body. As you can see from these figures, the Kona is bigger in almost every way. Whether you are the driver, the front seat passenger, or a backseat rider, you’ll have more wiggle room.

Furthermore, the Kona offers significantly more cargo space. When the second row is folded, its 25.5 cu ft becomes 63.7 cu ft. In the same situation, the Honda’s 24.3 cubic feet becomes 55.1 cu ft.  

Powertrain Options: Kona's Versatility

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offers diverse powertrains. These include gasoline, electric, and the sporty N-Line. The Honda HR-V offers a single gasoline engine. This gives the Kona an advantage for varied needs. 

Ownership Costs

Kelley Blue Book named the Kona their 2025 Best Subcompact SUV in their Best Buy Awards, following up a win for the Kona in 2024. Likewise, the Kona Electric is considered a 2025 Best Buy by US News and World Report. Adding even more weight to this, the 2025 Best Automaker for the Money is Hyundai, according to Money magazine.

Konas have much longer warranties than Honda HR-Vs in Gilbert AZ. Kias also have extended complimentary maintenance and a meaningful 3-year Blue Link subscription. When you add its fuel efficiency, even without hybrid or electric assistance, the Kona is clearly ready to keep costs down over time.  

Technology and Safety

Both vehicles earned the 2024 Top Safety Pick Plus Award. And both have a big suite of driver assistance. Hyundai includes extras such as a braking assist for the rear cross traffic alert and curve management with navigation-enabled adaptive cruise control.

 Both the Honda and the Hyundai have today’s infotainment technologies, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, there is a difference when it comes to the built-in system of each subcompact SUV.

Honda offers 7-in or 9-in screens while Kia is offering a standard 12.3-inch screen. Kia higher trims offer many desirable features, such as a surround view monitor and a premium Bose system.  

Choosing the Right Small SUV

While the Honda HR-V is a worthy choice, the Kona wins this comparison with more features, more technology, diverse powertrains and a better warranty.

If you live in the Phoenix area, head to the Earnhardt Hyundai dealership in the San Tan metroplex in Gilbert AZ. You’ll find a large selection, No Bull prices, and competitive financing.  

This subcompact SUV is available now. Schedule a test drive today.