As more and more people move into cities or towns, compact crossovers are becoming increasingly popular. Their practical look, elevated driving position, and small footprint are perfect for individuals, small families, and couples who need a single vehicle to suit all their needs. Thus, there are many options from various automakers. The new 2023 Honda HR-V and Kia Sportage are popular and stylish options in this segment. But which one of the two compact crossovers suits you best? Read on to find out.
Trims and Pricing
The 2023 Honda HR-V comes in three different trims, including:
- LX: Starting at $25,095.
- Sport: Starting at $27,195.
- EX-L: Starting at $29,195.
The 2023 Kia Sportage, on the other hand, offers seven different trim options, including:
- LX:Â Starting at $26,290.
- EX:Â Starting at $28,290.
- X-Line AWD: Starting at $31,090.
- SX: Starting at $31,790.
- SX Prestige: Starting at $33,790.
- Sportage X-Pro: Starting at $35,290.
- Sportage X-Pro Prestige: Starting at $37,090.
Performance
The 2023 HR-V comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder inline-four engine that generates 138 lb-ft of torque and 158 hp, which is up 11 lb-ft and 17 hp from the previous model. This engine pairs with a continuously variable transmission. Its base model comes with a front-wheel drivetrain, but you can opt for an all-wheel drivetrain for superior traction on challenging terrain. Â
The 2023 Sportage, on the other hand, has a thirstier 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 187 hp and delivers it to the wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its hybrid variant comes with a 1.6-liter turbo four and a single electric motor, generating a total of 226 hp. All Sportage variants come with either a standard front-wheel-drive system or an available all-wheel-drive system.
Safety
Whether you're using your SUV for embarking on a road trip with your family or making your daily drive, you need your vehicle to be as safe as possible. Honda made the HR-V with safety in mind, which is why they've packed it with advanced safety features. It comes standard with a hill descent control, which is essentially a cruise control technology with antilock brakes. It automatically adjusts the braking pressure to help control slippage and maintain a constant present speed while you're going down a steep grade. Â
Other safety features of the HR-V include:
- Lane-keep assist.
- Forward collision warning.
- Blind-spot monitoring.
- Rear cross-traffic alerts.
The 2023 Sportage, on the other hand, only comes standard with lane departure warning and forward collision warning. A driver attention warning and parking sensors are also standard, but the rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitor are only available as upgrades.
If you want something safe and capable, there's no better option than the new Honda HR-V.
Range and Fuel Economy
The 2023 Honda HR-V is more fuel efficient than the 2023 Kia Sportage, surpassing the Sportage in fuel ratings and range.Â
For instance, the regular HR-V units have a fuel economy rating of 32 mpg on the highway and 26 mpg in the city. It also offers 448 miles on the highway and 364 miles in the city alongside a combined range of 420 miles. These figures are greater than the regular Sportage units that report 28 mpg on the highway and 25 mpg in the city, as well as a total range of 400 miles on the highway and 358 miles in the city.Â
Cargo Space
The Kia Sportage has 39.6 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats with about 74 cubic feet available if you fold down the seats. The HR-V, on the other hand, has 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats and around 55 cubic feet if you fold these seats down. While this isn't comparable to the cargo space of the new Sportage, it's big enough for easily stowing bulky items, such as home improvement supplies or a bike. Â
Infotainment and Connectivity
The standard touch screen of the 2023 Honda HR-V measures 7 inches, while the base 2023 Kia Sportage has an 8-inch touch screen. The Sportage offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen at higher trim levels, while the largest screen for the Honda HR-V is 9 inches. Â
The HR-V brings wireless Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging to the top two trims. On the other hand, the Sportage offers a multi-connection Bluetooth system, Smart Speaker integration, a wireless hotspot for five devices, and over-the-air updates.Â
Which Is Better for Comfort and Tech?
The 2023 Honda HR-V and the 2023 Kia Sportage both offer an impressive number of comfort and tech features. However, the HR-V has a slight edge, especially in the higher trim levels and over-the-top features. Both compact crossovers have their brands' latest driver-assistance and safety technologies, connectivity systems, and other modern perks.Â
Is the Sportage Faster Than the HR-V?
The 2023 Honda HR-V's zero to 60 mph takes around 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of about 116 miles per hour with its 138 lb-ft of torque and 158 hp and power curve. The HR-V's 1.5-liter i-VTEC inline-four gasoline engine takes about 17.5 seconds for its quarter-mile drag time. Â
On the other hand, the Sportage can accelerate from zero to 60 mpg in about 9.3 seconds and has a top speed of 100 miles per hour. The Sportage's 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine tables about 16.9 seconds for its quarter-mile drag time.Â
Is Buying an HR-V Worth It?
If you're shopping for a small, affordable SUV, then the 2023 Honda HR-V is a good option. The vehicle's poised handling, upscale cabin, sizeable cargo area, comfy first- and second-row seats, and easy-to-use infotainment system make it well worth consideration.
The 2023 Honda HR-V and the 2023 Kia Sportage offer many features. However, when it comes to things such as safety, versatility, and fuel economy, the 2023 HR-V is the clear winner. Ciocca Honda of York has a vast selection of your favorite Honda HR-V models with financing options and deals that will keep even more of your money in your pocket. What are you waiting for? Contact us today or visit our dealership at 1313 Kenneth Road in York, Pennsylvania. We look forward to meeting you soon.
