2025 Honda HR-V vs. Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona | Subcompact SUV Comparison near Tanque Verde, AZ

2025 Honda HR-V vs. Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona

Compact crossovers continue to grow in popularity as drivers look for SUV versatility in a city-friendly size. The 2025 Honda HR-V is Honda’s answer to drivers who want modern styling, refined driving, and practical versatility in one smart package. Against popular rivals like the Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona, the HR-V shows why Honda’s approach to design, space, and real-world value makes it a standout in the segment.

Balanced Performance for Everyday Driving

The 2025 Honda HR-V is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for smooth power delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. Front-wheel drive is standard, with available Real Time AWD™ for extra confidence in rain, snow, or light dirt roads.

While the HR-V isn’t a performance SUV, it’s engineered for everyday comfort with refined suspension tuning that soaks up bumps and keeps road noise low — something many buyers appreciate for daily commuting and weekend getaways.

The Mazda CX-30 is one of the sportier options in this segment. Its standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine makes 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, giving it a peppier feel off the line. An available turbocharged version boosts output to up to 250 horsepower with premium fuel, offering true punch for drivers who want more fun behind the wheel. However, the CX-30’s stiffer suspension can feel firmer over rough roads.

The Hyundai Kona, redesigned for 2025, also focuses on sporty vibes with multiple engines: a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 147 horsepower, or an optional 1.6-liter turbocharged engine producing up to 190 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available for added grip. The Kona is fun and nimble, but its cabin and ride can feel tighter than the HR-V’s more composed setup on longer drives.

Spacious Interior and Smart Flexibility

Inside, the 2025 HR-V delivers surprising roominess for its compact footprint. It comfortably seats five, with supportive front seats and generous rear legroom — a big advantage in a segment where many rivals have tight back seats. Higher trims add leather-trimmed seating, heated front seats, a moonroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control.

The HR-V’s flexible cargo area is another highlight. With the rear seats up, you get around 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space — plenty for groceries, sports gear, or a weekend’s worth of luggage. Fold the rear seats flat, and you have about 55.1 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, one of the best in its class.

The Mazda CX-30 focuses more on premium styling and driver-focused design. While it feels upscale inside with high-quality materials, its rear-seat space and cargo capacity — about 20.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 45.2 cubic feet max — are tighter than the HR-V’s.

The Hyundai Kona’s interior design is youthful and modern, with smart tech placement and colorful accents. It offers about 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 63.7 cubic feet with the seats folded — competitive numbers for shoppers who need flexible storage but don’t mind a smaller back seat.

Modern Tech and Everyday Connectivity

The HR-V keeps everyone connected with a standard 7-inch touchscreen, expanding to a crisp 9-inch display on higher trims. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ come standard on EX-L trims, along with wireless charging, a premium audio system, and an intuitive digital gauge cluster.

Mazda’s CX-30 brings its own premium tech approach, with a standard 8.8-inch display controlled by a console-mounted dial rather than touch — which some drivers find less convenient. Wireless smartphone connectivity is available, and the CX-30’s top trims offer a sharp Bose premium audio system.

The Hyundai Kona’s updated interior design highlights tech-forward features: an available twin-screen layout with a large digital gauge cluster and a central touchscreen up to 12.3 inches. It offers wireless smartphone mirroring and available features like a head-up display, but some of the Kona’s advanced options push buyers into higher trim levels.

Safety Features and Driver Confidence

Like every modern Honda, the 2025 HR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing® — a suite of advanced driver-assist technologies including Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, and Traffic Jam Assist. Higher trims add Blind Spot Information with Cross Traffic Monitor, helping drivers handle busy roads with extra confidence.

The Mazda CX-30 includes standard i-Activsense® safety features: adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and blind spot monitoring. The Hyundai Kona comes with Hyundai SmartSense, offering comparable features like forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, and driver attention warning.

All three crossovers earn high marks for safety, but the HR-V’s reputation for reliability and real-world durability helps give families extra peace of mind for long-term ownership.

Long-Term Value and Ownership Experience

Honda’s reputation for low maintenance costs and excellent resale value carries over to the HR-V, which consistently ranks among the most affordable small SUVs to own over time. Mazda’s CX-30 is loved for its sporty character and premium interior, but its resale value can trail Honda’s. The Kona brings fun styling and tech, but some buyers find long-term durability to be less consistent than Honda’s proven track record.

Verdict: Why the 2025 Honda HR-V Makes Sense

For drivers who want everyday usability, smart space, refined comfort, and advanced tech in an easy-to-park crossover, the 2025 Honda HR-V remains one of the segment’s smartest buys. The Mazda CX-30 brings sporty handling and premium finishes, while the Hyundai Kona’s bold styling and strong tech lineup appeal to younger buyers — but the HR-V’s thoughtful balance of space, comfort, and real-world value make it a standout choice for daily life.

Find Your 2025 Honda HR-V Today

Discover the latest HR-V models at your local Honda dealer and see why this small crossover is winning over drivers everywhere.