2027 Kia Sportage vs Honda CR-V

The 2027 Kia Sportage and 2027 Honda CR-V are two of the most practical compact SUVs for Northeast Ohio drivers. Both seat five, offer available all-wheel drive, provide gasoline and hybrid powertrains, and combine useful cargo space with modern safety and connectivity features. Their strengths are different, though. The CR-V emphasizes gas fuel economy and maximum cargo volume, while the Sportage offers a lower starting price, more towing capacity, a larger standard touchscreen, strong rear-seat space, and additional powertrain choices.

2027 Kia Sportage vs. Honda CR-V at a Glance

The two SUVs are closely matched in basic size and passenger capacity, but Sportage has a meaningful advantage in starting price, towing capacity, and standard screen size. CR-V counters with slightly higher gasoline horsepower and stronger gas fuel economy.

MSRP excludes destination charges, taxes, title, license, options, and dealer charges. Fuel economy and capability vary by drivetrain, trim, and equipment.

Price and Value

The 2027 Sportage LX FWD starts at $28,990 MSRP. The 2027 CR-V LX starts at $31,520. That gives the Kia a $2,530 lower starting MSRP before destination charges and other fees.

That price difference is notable because the Sportage still includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, smart cruise control with Stop & Go, lane keeping technology, front and rear parking sensors, and multiple collision-avoidance systems on the base LX.

Gas Performance and Fuel Economy

Honda has a small power advantage in the standard gasoline models. Its 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. The Sportage uses a naturally aspirated 2.5L four-cylinder producing 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft.

The driving experience is different because Kia pairs its engine with a conventional 8-speed automatic transmission, while Honda uses a continuously variable transmission.

For drivers focused strictly on gasoline fuel economy, the CR-V has the advantage. For buyers who prefer a traditional geared automatic transmission, the Sportage offers an alternative to the Honda's CVT.

Sportage Hybrid vs. CR-V Hybrid

Both SUVs offer hybrid power, but the Sportage Hybrid has the advantage in horsepower and starting price.

The Kia also gives buyers another choice Honda does not offer in the conventional CR-V lineup: a Sportage Plug-In Hybrid. The 2027 Sportage PHEV produces 268 horsepower and can travel up to 34 miles using electric power before operating as a hybrid.

If you are comparing Kia's three powertrain options, see our 2027 Sportage gas vs. hybrid vs. plug-in hybrid guide.

Passenger Room and Cargo Space

Both compact SUVs make good use of their footprint. Sportage provides slightly more rear-seat legroom and slightly more cargo room with the rear seats upright. CR-V has the advantage when the rear seats are folded.

Sportage may be the better fit if rear-seat comfort and everyday cargo room matter most. CR-V offers a little more total space when you fold the rear seats and use the cabin primarily for cargo.

If you are also considering a smaller Kia crossover, read our Kia Seltos vs. Kia Sportage comparison.

AWD and Northeast Ohio Winter Driving

Both SUVs offer all-wheel drive, which can provide additional traction during Cleveland-area winters. Honda calls its system Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System. Kia offers Active AWD, with Terrain Mode available on applicable Sportage AWD configurations.

The Sportage X-Pro Prestige is the more specialized gas-powered adventure trim, while Honda reserves its TrailSport treatment for the CR-V Hybrid. Proper winter tires and careful driving remain important regardless of drivetrain.

Technology and Connectivity

Technology is one of the Sportage's strongest advantages at the entry level. Every 2027 Sportage includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Honda equips the CR-V with a 9-inch touchscreen.

Upper Sportage trims add an available 12.3-inch digital instrument display, navigation, Harman Kardon premium audio, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and Highway Driving Assist.

Honda adds a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster on select hybrid trims, while the Sport Touring Hybrid includes Google built-in and Bose premium audio.

Towing: Sportage Has the Advantage

The gasoline Sportage can tow up to 2,500 pounds when properly equipped with trailer brakes. Honda rates gasoline CR-V models at up to 1,500 pounds.

The difference remains with the hybrids. Sportage Hybrid can tow up to 2,000 pounds when properly equipped, while Honda lists the CR-V Hybrid at 1,000 pounds. Buyers planning to tow a small utility trailer, lightweight recreational equipment, or similar loads may find the Kia's extra capacity useful.

Warranty Coverage

Warranty coverage is another area where the two vehicles differ substantially.

Warranty coverage is subject to eligibility, exclusions, ownership limitations, and manufacturer terms. Review the applicable warranty booklet before purchase.

Which Compact SUV Is the Better Fit?

Our take: The CR-V remains a strong choice for buyers who prioritize gasoline efficiency and maximum cargo capacity with the seats folded. The Sportage makes a particularly strong value case for Bedford-area shoppers with its lower starting price, spacious second row, larger standard display, higher towing capacity, longer warranty coverage, and broader choice of gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

Want to see what changed for the new model year? Read our 2027 Kia Sportage vs. 2026 Kia Sportage guide.

2027 Kia Sportage vs. Honda CR-V FAQ

Compare the 2027 Kia Sportage at Kia of Bedford

The 2027 Honda CR-V offers strong gasoline efficiency and useful cargo space, but the Kia Sportage delivers compelling value with a lower starting MSRP, roomy rear seating, a larger standard touchscreen, higher towing capacity, longer warranty coverage, and gasoline, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid choices. Visit Kia of Bedford to compare Sportage trims and powertrains in person.

Kia of Bedford
18180 Rockside Road
Bedford, OH 44146
(440) 735-4000