Nowadays, the least expensive option at dealerships is often a subcompact SUV. But don’t let that fact mislead you. The subcompact SUVs of 2026 aren’t stripped-down budget models. Many are well-equipped, comfortable, capable cars that can fill most roles easily.
Two of the most well-reviewed are the Kia Seltos and the Honda HR-V. Each delivers ample space for people and gear, up-to-date technology, and impressive safety features.
Here’s how the Kia Seltos and Honda HR-V compare.
2026 Kia Seltos
The Kia Seltos is an undeniably great value, and among the top-ranked in our Best Subcompact SUVs. For 2026, it sees few changes, still touting impressive interior space, elite tech, and advanced safety features. Overall, Kia models are protected by industry-leading warranties. An all-new Seltos is around the corner for 2027, this model still represents an alluring option. It’s available in four trim, with a choice of two engines, and either standard front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive.
Kia Seltos Highlights
Bose audio with mood lighting: The Seltos goes above and beyond for the SX trim. Typically, most SUVs require a premium audio system upgrade for special features, but not on the Seltos SX. Kia decided to make things a bit more exciting by adding mood lighting and a high-tech cabin.
Unbeatable warranty: No one beats Kia’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranties, including its Honda rival here. Knowing major repairs are covered for so many years gives you peace of mind.
Available turbo engine: The HR-V’s base engine is more powerful than the one in the Seltos. But it’s the only option Honda offers. The Kia Seltos SX comes with a turbo engine making an impressive 190 hp.
Read our Kia Seltos Expert Review or see Kia Seltos models for sale near you.
2026 Honda HR-V
The 2026 Honda HR-V represents the brand’s smallest and least-expensive SUV. But despite its smaller stature and attractive pricing, it brings the Honda traits of easy manner, immense practicality, and low ownership costs. For 2026, it gets upgraded technology, styling updates, and new paint options. It’s available in three trims, with front- or optional all-wheel drive.
Honda HR-V Highlights
More powerful base engine: The HR-V comes with a 158-horsepower engine, a dozen better than the Seltos’ 146 from its base engine.
Honda Sensing Advanced Safety Features: Standard on every HR-V, Honda Sensing features a variety of advanced safety and driver assistance technologies. It includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, and lane departure warning with steering assistance.
Upgraded tech: For 2026, the HR-V now comes with a 9-inch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and wireless phone charging. Seltos models have either an 8-inch or 10.25-inch screen, and ironically the higher trims don’t get wireless phone mirroring.
Read our Honda HR-V Expert Review or see Honda HR-V models for sale near you.
Similarities
Both of these vehicles are subcompact SUVs yet tout impressive cargo space, front- or all-wheel drive, and similar safety systems.
The Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price for any individual used vehicle can vary greatly according to mileage, condition, location, and other factors. The prices here reflect what buyers are currently paying for New 2026 Kia Seltos vehicles and New 2026 Honda HR-V vehicles in typical condition when purchasing from a dealership. These prices are updated weekly. The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) quoted includes the destination fee, but does not include tax, license, document fees, and options.
| 2026 Kia Seltos | 2026 Honda HR-V | |
| Popular Powertrains | ||
| Engine | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder | 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Towing Capacity | N/A | N/A |
| Horsepower | 147 hp @ 6,200 rpm | 158 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 132 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm | 138 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm |
| Transmission | Automatic, IVT | Automatic, CVT |
| Fuel Economy | 28 city/34 highway/31 combined mpg | N/A |
| Specs | ||
| Basic Warranty | 5 years/60,000 miles | 3 years/36,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty | 10 years/100,000 miles | 5 years/60,000 miles |
| NHTSA Overall Safety | 5 stars | Not rated |
| Max Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 inches | 104.5 inches |
| Overall Length | 172.6 inches | 179.8 inches |
| Width | 70.9 inches | 72.4 inches |
| Height | 63.6 inches | 63.4 inches |
| Turning Diameter | 34.8 feet | 35.1 feet |
| Headroom, Front | 40.0 inches | 39.4 inches |
| Headroom, 2nd Row | 38.4 inches | 38.0 inches |
| Legroom, Front | 41.4 inches | 41.9 inches |
| Legroom, 2nd Row | 38.0 inches | 37.7 inches |
| Shoulder Room, Front | 55.5 inches | 56.6 inches |
| Shoulder Room, 2nd Row | 54.9 inches | 55.2 inches |
| Cargo Behind Second Seat | N/A | 24.4 feet |
| Cargo With All Seats Down | 62.8 feet | N/A |
Specification table reflects the typical configuration of vehicles shown.
Conclusion
The Kia Seltos and Honda HR-V occupy spots in our top tier of compact SUVs, meaning either is a great choice. Even a base Honda HR-V has better tech, but it comes at a price, as the least-expensive HR-V is some $2,700 more than a base Seltos. In addition to costing less, the Seltos offers bigger screens, a far better warranty, and an optional turbo engine. With a match this good, we recommend weighing your budget, testing both, and seeing which is a better fit for you.
