Alfa Romeo Junior vs Honda CR-V
What's the difference?

Alfa Romeo Junior

$45,900 - $58,990

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Honda CR-V

$41,900 - $64,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Renault Megane E-Tech

Renault Scenic E-Tech

Summary

2026 Alfa Romeo Junior

2026 Honda CR-V

By Jack Quick

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 3, 1.2L

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

4.1L/100km (combined)

5.7L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Keen driving dynamics
Surprisingly quiet
Can be very frugal

Styling reflects premium grade level
Comfortable all-rounder on-road
Can easily hold passenger and cargo

Dislikes

Double the price of Chinese rivals
Lots of plain black finishes
No standard spare wheel

Could do with more gear for the price
Technology needs refinement and upgrade
Can sound whiny under load

2026 Alfa Romeo Junior Summary

Alfa Romeo’s new entry-level model has finally arrived in Australia.

Pitched as a spiritual successor to the MiTo and Giulietta hatchbacks, the Junior is a tiny SUV with plenty of hatchback design cues.

It was originally set to be called the Milano, however members of the Italian government complained, claiming it’s illegal to sell products with an Italian place name that aren’t actually made there.

The Junior is actually built in Tychy, Poland alongside the related Jeep Avenger at a Stellantis production plant.

We’ve driven the Junior a few times now overseas, but now it’s time to see how it holds up on local soil.

First up is the Ibrida, or hybrid. The fully electric version is also on sale but will have to wait for a future review.

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2026 Honda CR-V Summary

Honda has refreshed the CR-V, with more than half the line-up now featuring a hybrid powertrain. It’s a clear move to stay competitive against rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Hyundai Tucson and Kia Sportage.

After a week behind the wheel, the question is simple - does this hybrid deliver on the family-friendly practicality the CR-V is known for, while also meeting its efficiency claims?

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Alfa Romeo Junior 2026 Honda CR-V

Verdict

The Alfa Romeo Junior is a cute car that’s charming and smile-inducing. It deserves to sell well but ultimately this will come down to whether the Australian public is receptive.

There is plenty of competition out there and if you're wanting something design-led, it's hard to look past this without spending much more money.

Note: CarsGuide attended this event as a guest of the manufacturer, with travel, accommodation and meals provided.

Verdict

The Honda CR-V RS hybrid has plenty going for it. It’s a well-rounded package with good levels of comfort and practicality, and a driving experience that’s easy to live with day to day.

There are a few areas that hold it back from leading the segment. The multimedia system feels behind the curve for a flagship grade, and the engine can become vocal under load. Some rivals also edge ahead when it comes to outright equipment.

Even so, the CR-V still delivers where it counts. It’s efficient, spacious and comfortable.

Alfa Romeo Junior vs Honda CR-V What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Alfa Romeo Junior vs Honda CR-V
What's the difference?