Skip to main content

Two of the top choices for the subcompact crossover SUV segment are the 2023 Honda HR-V and the 2023 Kia Seltos. Find out how they measure up in this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Kia Seltos comparison. With its multitude of advantages, the Seltos beats the HR-V.

2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Kia Seltos

Front angle view of Urban Gray Pearl 2023 Honda HR-V crossover SUV
Urban Gray Pearl 2023 Honda HR-V | Honda

In this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Kia Seltos crossover SUV comparison, we evaluated several areas. This includes performance, gas mileage, safety, passenger and cargo space, warranty coverage, and price.

HR-V vs. Seltos: Performance 

Front angle view of yellow 2023 Kia Seltos, highlighting why Kia cars are so inexpensive
Starbright Yellow 2023 Kia Seltos | Kia

On the performance front, the 2023 Honda HR-V has a higher base engine horsepower output, but the 2023 Kia Seltos has a higher maximum output.

While the HR-V offers a hybrid version in the European market, in the United States, all models have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 158 horsepower. In comparison, the Seltos offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (146 horsepower) and a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine (175 horsepower).

Both the HR-V and Seltos offer a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. The all-wheel drive systems are beneficial for driving in adverse weather conditions and on uneven surfaces. However, with their relatively low ground clearances, the two crossover SUVs are not suitable vehicles for serious off-roading

Also, if you need a crossover SUV that can tow, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Neither the HR-V nor Seltos are rated for towing.

HR-V vs. Seltos: Gas mileage

For fuel economy, the Seltos has the advantage. It has an estimated gas mileage of up to 31 combined mpg, compared to 28 combined mpg for the HR-V.

HR-V vs. Seltos: Safety

Given its safety history, the Seltos has the advantage for safety. For the previous model year, unlike the HR-V, the Seltos earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. 

HR-V vs. Seltos: Passenger and cargo space

The 2023 HR-V and 2023 Seltos have a similar size. Both crossover SUVs can seat up to five people — with a total passenger volume of 98.7 cu-ft for the HR-V and 99.0 cu-ft for the Seltos. However, the HR-V has a slight edge for storage space. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 66.8 cu-ft, compared to 62.8 cu-ft for the Seltos. 

HR-V vs. Seltos: Warranty coverage

The Seltos offers very generous warranty coverage, with the backing of a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. In comparison, the HR-V only has a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty.

HR-V vs. Seltos: Price

Which crossover SUV costs more: the 2023 HR-V or the 2023 Seltos? The starting price of the 2023 HR-V ranges from $23,650 MSRP for the LX trim up to $27,450 MSRP for the EX-L trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2023 Seltos ranges from $22,840 MSRP for the LX trim up to $28,340 for the SX trim. 

2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Kia Seltos: Which crossover SUV is better?

In this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Kia Seltos crossover SUV comparison, the 2023 Seltos has most of the advantages. This includes advantages for maximum horsepower, gas mileage, safety, warranty coverage, and a lower base price. Conversely, the 2023 HR-V has advantages for base engine horsepower and cargo space.

Related

2023 Kia Seltos: Price, Specs, and Features — Affordable Crossover SUV