Choosing your next SUV? If you’re after a blend of modern style, everyday comfort, and smart efficiency, the 2026 Kia Sportage and 2026 Honda CR-V are two strong contenders. To help simplify your decision, the Southlake Kia team near Chesterton, IN, has put together this detailed 2026 Kia Sportage vs. Honda CR-V guide.
Explore our current inventory to discover your ideal Kia Sportage for sale at our Kia dealership in Merrillville, IN. Looking for a great deal? Don’t miss our latest Kia Sportage lease specials. If you have any questions, our team is here to help. Connect with us online or call us at (219) 947-1500.
Navigate to a specific research section to learn more:
2026 Kia Sportage
Inside the 2026 Kia Sportage and 2026 Honda CR-V, comfort meets craftsmanship. From the moment you settle in, you’ll notice how each cabin balances modern design with everyday convenience. Select trims offer a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, while available shared features, such as heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, elevate the driving experience. Looking to let in a little sunshine? The CR-V offers a one-touch power moonroof, while the Sportage goes bigger with a panoramic sunroof and built-in power sunshade.
Tech-wise, both models keep you connected without the clutter. Wireless smartphone compatibility and charging are available in either model lineup, and additional USB ports in both rows ensure everyone stays charged on the road.
Curious about what sets the Kia Sportage cabin apart? Dive into our in-depth Sportage interior overview to learn more.
Notable interior differences include:

2026 Kia Sportage
Ready for the road ahead? The 2026 Kia Sportage and 2026 Honda CR-V are built to handle whatever your journey demands, blending agile performance with smart efficiency. Find standard front-wheel drive (FWD) in the Sportage or two-wheel drive (2WD) in the CR-V for enhanced fuel economy. You can also opt for all-wheel drive (AWD) for extra grip when the weather turns.
If reducing emissions is a priority, both vehicles have you covered. The CR-V offers a hybrid powertrain on select trims, while the Sportage gives you more options, including both hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants. That means you can choose the level of efficiency that suits your daily routine.
See the following chart for a comparison of standard gas engine specifications.
| Model | 2026 Kia Sportage | 2026 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Gas Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.5L turbo four-cylinder |
| Horsepower | 187 HP | 190 HP |
| Torque | 178 lb.-ft. | 179 lb.-ft. |
| Transmission | Eight-speed automatic | Continuously variable transmission (CVT) |
| Drivetrain | FWD / AWD | 2WD / AWD |
2026 Kia Sportage
If space and comfort are high on your priority list, the 2026 Kia Sportage and 2026 Honda CR-V are designed to deliver. Both seat up to five passengers and provide generous legroom in the front and back — perfect for road trips, daily commutes, or just keeping everyone happy on longer trips. When it’s time to load up, both SUVs make it simple. Fold down the rear seats to unlock expansive cargo areas, giving you the flexibility to carry everything from suitcases to camping gear. The Sportage enhances storage convenience with a standard dual-level cargo floor, helping you keep items better organized.
Looking at total cargo capacity, the CR-V leads slightly with up to 76.5 cubic feet of space, while the Sportage offers a close 74.1 cubic feet — more than enough for whatever life throws your way.
See the accompanying chart for a comparison of size and cargo specifications.
| 2026 Kia Sportage | Model | 2026 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Five | Seating | Five |
| 184.4 in. | Exterior Length | 184.8 in. |
| 108.5 in. | Wheelbase | 106.3 in. |
| 39.6 / 39.4 in. | Max. Headroom (Front/Rear) | 40 / 38.2 in. |
| 41.4 / 41.3 in. | Legroom (Front/Rear) | 41.3 / 41 in. |
| 74.1 / 39.6 cu.-ft. | Cargo Volume Behind First/Second Row | 76.5 / 39.3 cu.-ft. |
2026 Kia Sportage
Stay confident behind the wheel with the advanced safety tech packed into the 2026 Kia Sportage and Honda CR-V. Both SUVs are built with driver support systems that help you stay alert, aware, and in control. The Sportage features Kia Drive Wise, while the CR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing® — each suite offering essentials like adaptive cruise control, driver attention alerts, and multiple camera views for enhanced visibility.
The Sportage also brings something extra to the table: an available blind spot view monitor that streams a live video feed of your blind zones directly into the instrument cluster. It’s a smart upgrade that goes beyond standard indicators to help you make safer lane changes with greater confidence.
Available Kia Sportage safety features include:
2026 Kia Sportage
Bold, modern, and built for what’s next, the 2026 Kia Sportage boasts a striking new look and cutting-edge upgrades. Its futuristic design is highlighted by distinctive LED lighting and sculpted lines that give it a standout presence on the road.
Inside, the Sportage embraces innovation with a tech-rich interior, offering advanced digital features and a full suite of modern safety systems. And with gas, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains available, you have the freedom to choose the performance and efficiency that match your lifestyle.
If you want an SUV with lasting appeal and everyday versatility, the 2026 Honda CR-V delivers. Its design is clean and modern, offering a timeless look that holds up year after year. Step inside to find a roomy, intuitive interior outfitted with practical features that make every drive more enjoyable.
For those keeping an eye on fuel efficiency, the available hybrid powertrain stands out. With up to 43 city MPG, it’s a smart choice for drivers who want to go farther while leaving a smaller footprint.
Trying to decide if the Kia Sportage is the right fit for your next vehicle? Our team offers a selection of model comparison guides that break down how the Sportage stacks up against the competition in terms of performance, features, and value, so you can make a confident and informed choice.
When you need an outstanding crossover SUV to enhance your daily drives, consider two options like the 2025 Kia Sportage and 2025 Honda CR-V. Both models offer distinctive design elements that set them apart, spacious interiors, and environmentally friendly powertrain options to enhance your lifestyle. To assist you in your decision-making process, the Southlake Kia team has created the following 2025 Kia Sportage vs. Honda CR-V comparison.
Be sure to check out our comprehensive model review and thorough trims comparison to learn more about the Kia Sportage price range, exterior color options, and standard features.
Browse our inventory to find the ideal Kia Sportage for sale at Southlake Kia near Crown Point, IN. Plus, explore our Kia Sportage lease deals to secure a competitive rate. When you’re ready to get behind the wheel, schedule a test drive at our Kia dealership in Merrillville, IN. For any inquiries, please contact us online or by phone at (219) 947-1500.
The 2025 Kia Sportage and 2025 Honda CR-V both showcase a stylish and dynamic design that’s perfect for your next journey. Each model is equipped with LED headlights, taillights, and daytime running lights to ensure excellent visibility. The Sportage distinguishes itself by offering optional LED fog lights on its higher trim levels. You have a choice between 17-, 18-, or 19-inch wheels, with each model featuring a similar ground clearance — the Sportage offering 8.3 inches and the CR-V offering 8.2 inches. For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, the Sportage offers available all-terrain tires on select trims, enhancing its performance in off-road conditions.
Available Sportage exterior features include:
The 2025 Kia Sportage and the 2025 Honda CR-V both boast a contemporary interior with a range of amenities designed for ultimate comfort and convenience. Each SUV comes with a ten-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and dual-zone automatic climate control to maximize comfort. Additionally, both models provide the option for heated front seats, with the Sportage exclusively offering ventilated front seats.
In terms of technology, both the 2025 Sportage and 2025 CR-V are well-equipped to keep you in touch. The Honda CR-V has a premium 7- or 9-inch infotainment touchscreen, while the Sportage features options for an 8- or 12.3-inch touchscreen. The 12.3-inch screen can also be combined with a matching 12.3-inch instrument cluster, creating a seamless panoramic display. Both vehicles support effortless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay® or Android Auto™, and they offer an optional wireless phone charger to help keep the cabin organized.
Available Sportage interior features include:
Available Sportage technology features include:
Discover new adventures around every corner with the 2025 Kia Sportage and 2025 Honda CR-V, each delivering impressive performance under the hood. Both SUVs offer one robust engine with the choice of front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). With FWD, these vehicles shine in terms of fuel efficiency on the highway, achieving 32 highway MPG for the Sportage and 34 highway MPG for the CR-V.
For those who value eco-friendliness, both models also provide hybrid powertrain options that refine their traditional gasoline engines. The Honda CR-V features a hybrid engine in certain models, while the Kia Sportage offers both hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants within its lineup.
See the following chart for a comparison of standard gas engine specifications.
|
Model |
2025 Kia Sportage |
2025 Honda CR-V |
|
Gas Engine |
2.5L I4 |
1.5L turbo four-cylinder |
|
Horsepower |
187 HP |
190 HP |
|
Torque |
178 lb.-ft. |
179 lb.-ft. |
|
Transmission |
Eight-speed automatic |
Continuously variable transmission (CVT) |
|
MPG (City/Hwy) |
25 / 32 |
28 / 34 |
The 2025 Kia Sportage and 2025 Honda CR-V are both outstanding choices for families looking for roomy and comfortable five-passenger SUVs. Each model offers ample legroom for both front and rear passengers and can easily accommodate larger items by folding down the back seats. The Sportage comes with a convenient dual-level cargo floor that helps keep your belongings organized. With a maximum cargo capacity of 74.1 cubic feet in the Sportage and 76.5 cubic feet in the CR-V, there’s abundant space for all your essentials.
See the accompanying chart for a comparison of size and cargo specifications.
|
2025 Kia Sportage |
Model |
2025 Honda CR-V |
|
Five |
Seating |
Five |
|
183.5 in. |
Exterior Length |
184.8 in. |
|
39.6 / 39.4 in. |
Max. Headroom (Front/Rear) |
40 / 38.2 in. |
|
41.4 / 41.3 in. |
Legroom (Front/Rear) |
41.3 / 41 in. |
|
74.1 / 39.6 cu.-ft. |
Cargo Volume Behind First/Second Row |
76.5 / 39.3 cu.-ft. |
Boost your confidence on the road with advanced driver assistance technologies in either the 2025 Kia Sportage or 2025 Honda CR-V. Each model boasts a unique set of features — Kia Drive Wise for the Sportage or Honda Sensing® for the CR-V. Both vehicles offer a variety of similar safety technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, multi-view camera systems, and driver attention monitoring. A standout feature of the Sportage is its optional blind spot monitor, which provides a live digital feed of vehicles occupying your blind spot.
Available Sportage safety features include:
At Southlake Kia, we’re here to guide you in choosing the Kia Sportage that suits your lifestyle best. For a thorough understanding of what this SUV offers, explore our detailed Sportage review, and compare the various Sportage trims to find the features that matter most to you.
When you’re ready, take a look through our new Sportage inventory to find your ideal match. Don’t forget to check out our current lease specials for an attractive rate. If you prefer a pre-owned option, our selection of used Sportage vehicles is worth exploring. Have questions? Contact us online or give us a call at (219) 947-1500 — we’re happy to assist.