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

Kia Stonic

$28,180 - $36,040

2026 price

View pricing & specs

Honda CR-V

$41,900 - $64,400

2026 price

View pricing & specs

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Summary

2026 Kia Stonic

2026 Honda CR-V

By Andrew Chesterton

By Emily Agar

Safety Rating

Engine Type

—

Inline 4, 2.0L

Fuel Type

—

Unleaded Petrol/Electric

Fuel Efficiency

—

5.7L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Nice ride and handling balance
Frugal fuel use
Spacious backseat

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

Dislikes

Sparse cabin trimmings
Little engine can feel wheezy
Feels old in places

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

2026 Kia Stonic Summary

This might be Kia's best defence yet against the wave of cheap Chinese SUVs currently crashing against our shores.

It's the Kia Stonic, and this update brings mild hybrid technology, which lowers your fuel bill while upping your power. There's also some new tech stuff and some new safety stuff, as well as a refreshed front-end look.

Critically, though, it's not actually new. The Stonic launched globally back in 2017, before an updated version arrived in Australia around 2021. This is yet another update, albeit a significant one, which means the Stonic has been given dual-cab ute levels of longevity in the market.

All of that should be helping Kia to keep the pencil sharp, with the new range kicking off at $28,180, plus on-road costs.

Not quite China cheap, but not too far off it.

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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 Kia Stonic 2026 Honda CR-V

Verdict

Unlike a lot of rivals in this segment, the Stonic's actually quite a bit of fun to drive, and that alone earns it a tick from me.

Yes, it can feel underpowered in places, especially when you're trying to do high-speed overtakes or if you're on a really engaging road and on and off the accelerator. But just cruising around, the little powertrain gives you plenty to get around the city.

And I guess that is the point. This does feel like a very city-friendly vehicle, even if it is undeniably showing its age in places.

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

Note: The author, Andrew Chesterton, is a co-owner of Smart As Media, a content agency and media distribution service with a number automotive brands among its clients. When producing content for CarsGuide, he does so in accordance with the CarsGuide Editorial Guidelines and Code of Ethics (https://www.carsguide.com.au/ethics), and the views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author.

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 Stonic vs Honda CR-V What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

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