Compare performance (131 HP vs 138 HP), boot space and price (29700 £ vs 29100 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Honda HR-V or Kia Niro?
For 2025, the compact SUV segment welcomes the latest iterations of two popular hybrids: the Honda HR-V and the Kia Niro. Building on their storied reputations for blending practicality with efficiency, both models bring a host of valuable features and innovations to the table. Let's break down the technical aspects and unique offerings to determine which might be the better fit for your needs.
Both the Honda HR-V and the Kia Niro are classified as SUVs, but they each bring distinct design aesthetics and dimensions to set them apart. The Honda HR-V stands at a length of 4,355 mm, a height of 1,582 mm, and provides a trunk capacity of 319 liters. The Kia Niro, meanwhile, measures longer at 4,420 mm but slightly shorter in height at 1,545 mm. Its trunk capacity surpasses the HR-V with 451 liters, offering more storage space for long trips.
The Honda HR-V relies exclusively on a full hybrid engine providing 131 HP, translating into a smooth front-wheel-drive experience. It accomplishes 0 to 100 km/h in an average of 10.6 to 10.8 seconds. Drivers focused on efficiency will appreciate its 5.4 L/100km fuel consumption, backed by an engine capacity of 1,498 cm³.
The Kia Niro, by contrast, offers versatility with both full and plug-in hybrid options. Horsepower ranges from 138 HP to 180 HP, depending on the chosen model. Acceleration varies from 9.9 seconds to 11.4 seconds for a 0 to 100 km/h sprint. The plug-in variant shines with an impressive electric range of up to 62 km, ideal for short commutes without gasoline consumption.
In the realm of driving aids and technology, the HR-V is equipped with a suite of Honda Sensing safety features, ensuring peace of mind on the road. Its automatic transmission complements a modern driver-focused cabin, reflecting Honda’s continued commitment to intuitive and responsive driving experiences.
The Kia Niro counters with an advanced dual-clutch automatic transmission, enhancing driving dynamics. Its technological edge includes a variety of eco-driving modes, giving drivers the ability to optimize fuel efficiency. The PHEV version excels with its larger battery capacity at 11.1 kWh, which supports extended electric-only travel.
Both cars offer effective solutions for reducing one's carbon footprint. The HR-V's CO2 efficiency class is rated at D, with emissions at 122 g/km. The Niro exhibits better CO2 credentials, with emissions ranging from 53 to 111 g/km and a CO2 efficiency class from B to C. This positions the Niro as a more environmentally friendly choice, especially the plug-in hybrid variant.
In conclusion, the choice between the Honda HR-V and the Kia Niro largely depends on your priorities. The HR-V boasts Honda's reliable hybrid technology and a slightly lower curb weight of 1,452 kg, appealing to those who prioritize a simpler, hybrid-only experience. The Kia Niro, with its multiple powertrain options including a competitively efficient PHEV option, engages those wanting versatility and the opportunity to reduce emissions further.
Both models present strong offerings in the crowded compact SUV market. The decision may ultimately come down to whether you prioritize seemingly endless trunk space and eco-friendliness, represented by the Niro, or the straightforward efficiency and reliability of the HR-V.
Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.
Kia Niro has a barely noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 29100 £ , while the Honda HR-V costs 29700 £ . That’s a price difference of around 608 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Kia Niro manages with 4.50 L and is therefore distinct more efficient than the Honda HR-V with 5.40 L. The difference is about 0.90 L per 100 km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the Kia Niro has a barely noticeable edge – offering 138 HP compared to 131 HP. That’s roughly 7 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Honda HR-V is slight quicker – completing the sprint in 10.60 s, while the Kia Niro takes 11.10 s. That’s about 0.50 s faster.
There’s also a difference in torque: Kia Niro pulls hardly perceptible stronger with 265 Nm compared to 253 Nm. That’s about 12 Nm difference.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Honda HR-V is hardly perceptible lighter – 1452 kg compared to 1474 kg. The difference is around 22 kg.
When it comes to payload, Kia Niro slightly takes the win – 466 kg compared to 418 kg. That’s a difference of about 48 kg.
The Kia Niro sits well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The Honda HR-V is the sensible compact crossover that blends roomy practicality with a composed, friendly drive, making it an easy pick for buyers who want everyday usability without fuss. It won’t thrill hardcore enthusiasts, but its clever packaging, comfortable cabin and low-key styling make life simpler — and that’s exactly the point.
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The Kia Niro blends clever packaging and modern styling into a compact crossover that’s refreshingly sensible for daily life. It’s comfortable, economical and packed with user‑friendly tech, so if you want a fuss‑free family car with a touch of green credibility, the Niro is worth a test drive.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
29700 - 35400 £
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Price
29100 - 33800 £
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Consumption L/100km
5.40 L
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Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 4.9 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
122 g/km
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co2
102 - 111 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
-
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Curb weight
1452 kg
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Curb weight
1474 kg
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Trunk capacity
319 L
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Trunk capacity
-
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Length
-
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Length
-
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Width
-
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Width
1825 mm
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Height
-
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Height
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Payload
418 kg
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Payload
466 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid
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Engine Type
Full Hybrid
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
CVT
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
131 HP
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Power HP
138 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
10.6 - 10.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
11.1 - 11.4 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
-
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Torque
253 Nm
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Torque
265 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Power kW
96 kW
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Power kW
102 kW
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Engine capacity
1498 cm3
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Engine capacity
1580 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D
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CO2 Efficiency Class
C
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Brand
Honda
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Brand
Kia
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The Honda HR-V is available as Front-Wheel Drive.
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