Kia Niro vs Honda CR-V
What's the difference?

Kia Niro

$28,990 - $54,990

2023 price

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Honda CR-V

$41,900 - $64,400

2026 price

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Polestar 2 Long Range

Polestar 2 Standard Range

Summary

2023 Kia Niro

2026 Honda CR-V

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Not Applicable, 0.0L

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

Electric

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

0.0L/100km (combined)

5.7L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Decent driving range
Pleasant interior design
Easy-to-use tech

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

Dislikes

Rougher ride
Doughy acceleration from a full stop
Expensive compared to rivals

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

2023 Kia Niro Summary

Kia has released the newly updated Niro, which is the smaller and less sporty sibling to Kia’s popular, EV6. As far as EVs go, it has a decent driving range and specs that should entice first-time electric vehicle owners to dip their toes into the EV pool.

However, the updated model does come with a price hike… which might not excite a budget-conscious buyer, especially with such affordable competitors like the MG ZS EV and Hyundai Kona Electric also available.

I’ve been hanging in it for a week with my family of three to see how it handles!

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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

2023 Kia Niro 2026 Honda CR-V

Verdict

The Kia Niro S Electric is a solid little SUV that has decent space inside and some nice specs, but it's more expensive than its nearest rivals. The EV powertrain can take a little getting used to and I would have liked a smoother ride, but the 460km driving range is good.

For first-time EV owners, this wouldn’t be a bad option if you wanted to dip your toes in the water but it will suit urban dwellers and smaller families, like mine, best. This gets a 7.5/10 from me.

My son wasn’t in love with this one. Not enough buttons for him to press and he did comment on how bumpy the ride was in the back. He gives it a 6.0/10.

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.

Kia Niro vs Honda CR-V What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Kia Niro vs Honda CR-V
What's the difference?