Kia Seltos vs. Honda HR-V: Performance, Tech & Value Compared!
The subcompact SUV segment has become one of the most competitive in Canada, with drivers demanding a balance of efficiency, space, performance, and advanced technology. Two of the top contenders in this category are the 2025 Kia Seltos and the 2025 Honda HR-V.
Both models offer modern styling, fuel efficiency, and all-wheel drive options, but which one provides the best value for your money? In this detailed comparison, we break down the performance, technology, features, pricing, and reliability of both models to determine which small SUV is the better buy.
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Kia Seltos vs. Honda HR-V: Quick Comparison
| Feature | 2025 Kia Seltos | 2025 Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Starting Price (CAD/USD) | $26,000 / $19,500 | $28,000 / $21,000 |
| Horsepower | 195 hp (Turbo) | 158 hp |
| Torque | 195 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain Options | FWD or AWD | AWD |
| Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row) | 752 L (26.6 cu-ft) | 691 L (24.4 cu-ft) |
| Infotainment Screen | 10.25-inch (standard) | 7.0-inch (standard) |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Wireless | Wired |
| Fuel Efficiency (L/100 km) | 8.1 city / 7.1 highway | 9.4 city / 7.8 highway |
The 2025 Kia Seltos immediately stands out with a stronger engine, better cargo space, and a larger touchscreen, making it the more value-packed option.
Performance & Driving Experience
Kia Seltos: More Power and Turbocharged Performance
The 2025 Kia Seltos offers two engine options:
- 2.0L 4-cylinder engine (147 hp, 132 lb-ft torque)
- 1.6L Turbocharged engine (195 hp, 195 lb-ft torque)
With the 1.6L turbocharged engine, the Seltos provides one of the most powerful drivetrains in the subcompact SUV class. This means faster acceleration, better highway merging, and a more responsive driving experience.
Honda HR-V: Reliable but Underpowered
The 2025 Honda HR-V is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque. While it is reliable, it lacks the power of the turbocharged Seltos, making it feel slower in city traffic and less dynamic on highways.
Performance Verdict: Kia Seltos Wins
The Seltos’ turbocharged engine and superior torque make it the better choice for drivers who want a more engaging and responsive ride.
EXPLORE NEW 2025 KIA SELTOS AT KIA 417!Fuel Economy – Which SUV Saves More at the Pump?
| Model | City (L/100 km / mpg US) | Highway (L/100 km / mpg US) |
|---|---|---|
| Kia Seltos (Turbo) | 8.1 L / 100 km (29 mpg) | 7.1 L / 100 km (33 mpg) |
| Honda HR-V | 9.4 L / 100 km (25 mpg) | 7.8 L / 100 km (30 mpg) |
The Kia Seltos is more fuel-efficient than the HR-V, especially in city driving, where the Honda HR-V burns significantly more fuel.
Interior & Cargo Space – Which One Is More Practical?
For drivers who need a spacious cabin and practical cargo space, the Seltos is the better choice.
| Interior Dimension | Kia Seltos | Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger Volume | 2,778 L | 2,765 L |
| Cargo Volume (Behind 2nd Row) | 752 L (26.6 cu-ft) | 691 L (24.4 cu-ft) |
| Cargo Volume (Behind 1st Row) | 1,778 L (62.8 cu-ft) | 1,559 L (55.1 cu-ft) |
The Seltos offers more total cargo space and a wider rear opening, making it more versatile for families and road trips.
Technology & Infotainment – Which SUV Has Better Features?
| Feature | Kia Seltos | Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen Size | 10.25-inch | 7.0-inch |
| Apple CarPlay & Android Auto | Wireless | Wired |
| Digital Gauge Cluster | Available | Not Available |
| Navigation System | Standard on EX+ and above | Available only on top trims |
| Head-Up Display | Available | Not Available |
The Seltos’ 10.25-inch infotainment screen and wireless smartphone connectivity make it the more high-tech option, while the HR-V lags behind with a smaller, wired system.
EXPLORE NEW 2025 KIA SELTOS AT KIA 417!Safety Features – Which One Offers Better Protection?
Both the 2025 Kia Seltos and 2025 Honda HR-V come with a suite of safety features, but Kia offers more standard driver-assist technology across all trims.
| Safety Feature | Kia Seltos | Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Forward Collision Warning | Standard | Standard |
| Blind Spot Monitoring | Standard | Available on higher trims |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | Standard | Available on higher trims |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Available | Available |
| 360-Degree Camera | Available | Not Available |
The Seltos includes Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert on all models, while Honda reserves these features for higher trims.
Price & Value – Which SUV Offers More for the Money?
| Trim Level | 2025 Kia Seltos Price (CAD/USD) | 2025 Honda HR-V Price (CAD/USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Base Model | $26,000 / $19,500 | $28,000 / $21,000 |
| Mid-Level Trim | $30,000 / $22,500 | $32,500 / $24,400 |
| Top Trim (AWD) | $35,500 / $26,625 | $38,000 / $28,500 |
The Kia Seltos costs less while offering more standard features, making it the better value choice.
Final Verdict – Which SUV Should You Buy?
The 2025 Kia Seltos offers more power, better fuel efficiency, a more spacious interior, and superior technology at a lower price.
Why Choose the Kia Seltos?
- More horsepower and available turbocharged performance
- Better fuel economy
- More cargo space and passenger room
- Larger touchscreen and wireless smartphone connectivity
- More advanced safety features on base trims
- Lower starting price with better standard features
Looking to test drive the Kia Seltos in Ottawa? Visit Kia 417 today and experience the better subcompact SUV for yourself.
EXPLORE NEW 2025 KIA SELTOS AT KIA 417!
