2022 Hyundai Kona vs Honda HR-V

Driving an extra-small SUV isn't for everyone; if you're looking to haul heavy loads and transport a lot of cargo, these vehicles may not be up to the task. But they offer something else – great off-road performance wrapped in easy handling packages suited perfectly for anyone who's interested in exploring new terrains without breaking their bank account.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona and Honda HR-V offer plenty of features for those looking for a subcompact SUV. With its long list of standard equipment, the versatile Kona is an ideal choice for value seekers. If you're after something compact but still packed with personality, then the younger sibling in the family -the stylish HR-V – could be right up your street.

With the 2022 Kona and HR-V, buyers have a tough choice to make! Both vehicles offer attractive features, but those looking for their ideal ride should compare some key differences between them. Factors like performance power and interior design may help sway someone’s decision - take a look at this guide to learn more about what sets each SUV apart from the other.

The Powertrain

The base engine for the Kona is not too exciting. Found in the SE and SEL trim levels, the 2.0L four-cylinder engine produces only 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission. Luckily, Hyundai offers two potential engine upgrades.

The Kona is packed with power and performance potential, featuring two different turbocharged engine models. For maximum punch, the N-Line and Limited varieties offer up an impressive 1.6L four cylinder that packs 195 horses under the hood while also delivering a stout 195 lb-ft of torque to back it all up via its seven speed dual clutch automatic transmission system. But wait...there's more! Opt for the thrilling Kona N model and you'll be rewarded by voluminous 2 liter thrust from its high powered four banger - good for 276 horsepower plus 289 hefty foot pounds of twist served courtesy of an eight speed DCT setup.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona and HR-V are bringing convenience to the next level! Both models offer front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional upgrade to all-wheel drive for those seeking versatile performance. For drivers looking for some extra power under the hood of their Kona, check out the N trim - its dynamic engine comes paired exclusively with a FWD system.

Zoom into a new level of fun with the HR-V's 1.8L four-cylinder engine and continuously variable transmission, offering 141 horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. of torque to make every drive an exciting adventure - even if it isn't quite as fast as the Kona! Sadly neither model has yet embraced hybrid technology but there may be something on the horizon soon.

The 2022 Kona offers excellent fuel economy for all types of driving, no matter which engine option you choose. With its standard powerplant and front-wheel drive setup, the vehicle's mpg ratings come in at an impressive 30 city/35 highway; opting for the turbo 1.6L will yield even greater efficiency with 29 city/35 highway stats—both FWD configurations achieving better numbers than their AWD counterparts (28city/33highway). Even if drivers opt to step into heartier performance territory with a Kona N model they still won't be left out of pocket due to subpar MPG rates - 20city & 27highway are as good as it gets in that class.

With its efficient engine, the 2022 Honda HR-V is no slouch when it comes to fuel economy. It offers a respectable 28mpg city and 34mpg highway in standard setup for thrifty drivers looking for an impressive SUV that won't break the bank at the pump. Even better, those figures jump up slightly with all wheel drive – 27 mpg city and 31 on highways - meaning you'll be feeling more adventurous without having to sacrifice your wallet.

J.D. Power is a trusted company that gives new vehicles a predicted reliability score. For the 2022 HR-V, that score was 78 out of 100. This is on the higher side of the "Average" range. As for the 2022 Kona, it got 82 out of 100, pushing it up into the "Good" range.

The 2022 HR-V is covered by its limited comprehensive warranty for three years or 36,000 miles. Powertrain coverage lasts for five years or 60,000 miles. The 2022 Kona offers Hyundai's famous ten-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, plus five years or 60,000 miles for the limited comprehensive.

Drivability

With their nimble size, parking is a breeze for both the Kona and HR-V. A plus in handling, these two cars offer drivers superior steering control that pairs nicely with grippy braking power. While smooth roads encourage an agreeable ride from the Kona's rival –the Honda HR-V– rougher terrain may leave something to be desired.

The Kona may be a subcompact SUV, but it still has respectable cargo capabilities. With 19.2 cubic feet behind the second row and 45.8 total capacity, you won't have to worry about running out of space for your gear! But if you're looking for something extra special in an SUV's storage options - check out the Honda HR-V with its exceptional 24.3 cubic feet behind seat two plus either 55 or 57 cubic feet when fully expanded via their magical Magic Seat feature.

These smaller SUVs both can technically seat five people. While the front rows of these vehicles are impressive with their space, the back rows are cramped. The Kona would be particularly difficult for adults to ride in for an extended period. As for the HR-V, it has a good amount of legroom back there, but the sloped roofline reduces the headroom.

The Hyundai Kona offers a range of infotainment options to give drivers the perfect setup. Starting with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as two USB ports, even base models offer great access for on-the-go entertainment. But if you step up from the entry level HRV model there is also 7 inches LCD display added in along with integrated smartphone compatibility such Bluetooth connection, further enhanced by additional speakers reaching all around inside your car cabin - leaving no corner out.

There are far more sophisticated tech features available for the new Kona. The SUV can upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen, for example. It can also get a premium eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and the Blue Link system that unlocks remote features for the vehicle.

Remote keyless entry is a standard Kona feature. This is an available feature for the HR-V in 2022. Both of these vehicles offer things like automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and leather upholstery. There are heated front seats on the top two trims of both the Kona and the HR-V as well.

Safety

The 2022 Hyundai Kona is the car of the future, delivering its drivers an array of top-notch driver assistance features. Advanced forward collision mitigation with pedestrian detection keeps you safe on any road, while lane-keeping assist helps keep your vehicle in line and rear occupant alert lets you know who’s coming along for the ride. Plus, a built-in drowsiness monitor will make sure everyone stays wide awake when out driving.

The HR-V offers drivers a range of options when it comes to driving assistance, with the top two trim levels featuring Honda Sensing's suite of safety features: lane-keeping assist, forward collision mitigation and adaptive cruise control. Additionally, these models also have an advanced version of blind spot monitoring - dubbed HondaWatch – that provides live camera views from what would be considered the driver’s “blind spot” for optimal road awareness.

The Hyundai Kona is packed with intuitive safety features to make any drive easier. With blind-spot monitoring available on the SEL and higher trims, adaptive cruise control standard for N-Line and up, plus rear parking sensors featured in all Limited models - you can rest assured that your ride will be smooth sailing from start to finish.

The actual design of a vehicle is also a large part of how safe it is. That is why people look at the crash testing scores from organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. In 2022, both the HR-V and the Kona received the top score in all six main categories that were tested. Buyers should note that the HR-V headlights received either "Marginal" or "Poor," depending on the trim level.

Another set of test scores to consider comes from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Overall, the 2022 Kona and the 2022 HR-V were rated five out of five stars. Looking closer, the Kona received five stars for frontal collisions and side collisions. The HR-V received five stars for side collisions, but only four stars for frontal collisions. Both SUVs got four stars in rollover testing.

Which Has the Best Value?

Although the Kona and HR-V share a similar starting price, buyers wanting to up their game can opt for either the luxury Kona Limited or performance driven N. With prices ranging from $21K - $34k, there's an option available no matter what your budget is.

When researching cars for their next purchase, savvy shoppers must weigh the long-term financial impact of a vehicle. The "cost to own" calculation can provide buyers with an insightful look at how much they'll be spending over five years – from fuel and maintenance costs, to repairs and depreciation. To help paint this picture more clearly, here are theoretical figures based on owning entry level versions of two popular models (Kona & HR-V) driven 15k miles each year.

Fuel costs are similar, although the Kona will cost a bit less at the pumps. In five years, buyers can expect to pay around $7,282 for gas. They will spend $7,676 if they choose the HR-V. Maintenance costs are also similar, with the Kona estimated to cost $3,750 and the HR-V estimated to cost $3,270. Repair estimates for the Kona are only $734, however, while the HR-V is estimated to cost $1,680.

The 2022 Kona and HR-V are both attractive options for car owners - but as time passes, the value of each depreciates. Over five years after purchase, the predicted loss in value is $12,233 for the Kona versus a slightly smaller decrease to $11,624 for its counterpart. Despite these differences however; when it comes to ownership costs per mile driven they remain fairly similar at around 41 and 42 cents respectively!

Which is Better?

The 2022 Hyundai Kona and Honda HR-V offer car seekers an intriguing choice: though they have nearly identical prices, both cars present buyers with a host of distinct considerations. Drivers must decide which features are most paramount for their journeys - is it fuel efficiency? Luxury add ons? Roominess inside the cabin? There's just one way to find out.

Discover the Kona, an unbeatably stylish compact car packed with modern amenities and convenience. Take advantage of standard driver-assist technologies to make your drive a breeze while tapping into new levels of power from powerful engine options that are both potent and economical. With more features than ever before - all in a sleek design - the new Kona represents luxury living for drivers on all budgets.

Meanwhile, the HR-V has a truly impressive amount of cargo space. The Magic Seat makes this subcompact SUV incredibly versatile. Rear passengers will also find that they have a bit more room to stretch out in the HR-V, which will come in handy for families with growing children.

If you want the perfect balance of modern tech and classic comfort, Hyundai's 2022 Kona SUV is an ideal choice. For those who prioritize space without skimping on practicality, Honda has just released their '22 HRV - a car that offers plenty to suit all kinds of drivers.