2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Kia Sportage
Deciding on a compact SUV can be challenging, especially with excellent contenders like the 2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Kia Sportage. Both offer compelling features, practicality, and impressive performance. This comparison guide will break down the key factors to help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Space and Utility
The 2024 Honda CR-V boasts a reputation for maximizing interior space. It offers generous legroom and headroom for passengers in both rows, making it a comfortable choice for families. The cargo area is equally impressive, providing 39.3 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats and 75.8 cubic feet with the seats folded.
The Kia Sportage keeps pace with the CR-V in passenger comfort. While it offers slightly less cargo space behind the rear seats at 34.6 cubic feet, it makes up for it with a slightly larger maximum cargo capacity of 78.4 cubic feet.
Performance
The 2024 CR-V comes standard with a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. This engine pairs with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that delivers a smooth and fuel-efficient ride. Front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available for those who need extra capability in all weather conditions. According to EPA estimates, this Honda vehicle with FWD achieves up to 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The Sportage offers a wider range of engine options. The base model features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. Optional engines include a more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and a hybrid powertrain. The hybrid setup pairs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 226 horsepower. This option delivers excellent fuel efficiency, with estimates reaching up to 43 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.
Technology and Features
Both SUVs come well-equipped with standard features like touchscreen infotainment systems, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a suite of driver-assistance features. The CR-V's infotainment system is known for its user-friendly interface, while the Sportage boasts a larger touchscreen and a more modern design.
Higher trim levels offer additional features like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The Sportage goes a step further with some unique features, including a surround-view camera system and a digital instrument cluster.
Safety
Both the CR-V and the Sportage have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offer additional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
Cost and Value
The 2024 CR-V starts at a slightly lower price point than the 2024 Sportage. However, the Sportage's longer warranty (10 years/100,000 miles vs. 3 years/36,000 miles for the CR-V) can help offset the initial cost difference. Additionally, the Sportage's hybrid option offers significant fuel savings, which can translate to lower ownership costs in the long run.
The Final Verdict
Choosing between the 2024 Honda CR-V vs. 2024 Kia Sportage depends on your priorities. The CR-V is a strong choice for those who value a spacious interior, excellent fuel efficiency, and a proven track record for reliability. Ultimately, the best choice for you comes down to which SUV best aligns with your needs and preferences. Consider taking both for a test drive to get a feel for their driving dynamics and features before making your final decision.