Honda CR-V vs Kia Sportage: Which Should You Buy in Bahrain?

A complete comparison of the ⁦Honda CR-V⁩ VS ⁦Kia Sportage⁩ — specs, prices, pros and cons, and live used listings across Bahrain.

⁦Honda CR-V⁩ VS ⁦Kia Sportage⁩: the verdict

The Honda CR-V emerges as the stronger contender for most Bahraini buyers, offering superior fuel efficiency and significantly more cargo space, making it an ideal choice for families and practical daily use. However, the Kia Sportage counters with a wider range of engine options and a traditional automatic transmission, which might appeal to drivers seeking more powertrain variety or a different driving feel.
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Price Comparison
Starting at8,999 – 12,100 BHD9,495 – 10,830 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine2,356 cc · 4 cyl1,600 – 2,400 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp132 – 184 hp
Torque (Nm)244 Nm161 – 237 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.8 s9.6 – 11.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 km/h181 – 185 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.4 – 6.8 L/100km7.9 – 8.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity57 L54 – 62 L
Gears—6
TransmissionCVTAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 m × 1.9 m × 1.7 m4.5 / 4.7 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.6 / 1.7 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 / 2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,520 – 1,620 kg1,501 – 1,690 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)1,019 – 1,113 L503 – 830 L
Overview
Body StyleSUV CrossoverSUV Crossover
Seating Capacity5 seats5 seats
Doors4 doors4 / 5 doors
Features
Key features
12V SocketABS (Anti-lock Brake System)AirbagsAmbient LightingAnti theft alarmAudio Controls on Steering WheelAuto Dimming MirrorAuto Door LockAuto HeadlampsAutomatic ACAUXBA (Brake Assist)BluetoothBody Colored MirrorsCD PlayerCenter Arm RestCentral LockingCruise ControlCruise Control Switch on SteeringCupholdersDaytime Running LightsDoor Mirrors with Side Turn SignalDVDEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Eco Drive ModeElectric Door MirrorsElectric SunroofElectronic HandbrakeFabric SeatsFoldable Rear SeatsFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitHID HeadlightsHigh Mount Stop LampHill AssistImmobilizerISOFIX Child Seat AnchorsKeyless EntryLane Departure WarningLeather SeatsLeather Steering WheelLED TaillightsLumbar SupportManual ACManual HeadlampsMap Reading LampsMulti-Information DisplayNavigation SystemParking SensorsPower OutletsPower SteeringPower TailgatePower Windows - Front and RearPush Button StartRadioRain Sensing WipersRear AC VentsRear CameraRear CupholdersRear Seat PocketsRear Window DefoggerRear WiperRemote StartRoof RailsRoof SpoilerSeat Adjustment - AutomaticSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Power SteeringSteering Tilt AdjustmentTouchscreenTraction ControlTrip ComputerTyre Pressure Monitoring DisplayUSB PortVanity MirrorVehicle Stability Control (VSC)Welcome LightWheel SizeWheels - AlloyWood TrimXenon Headlamps
360-Degree Camera360-Degree CameraABS (Anti-lock Brake System)Acoustic HoodActive SteeringAirbagsAnti theft alarmAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBumper Side StepCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionDisc BrakesEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitGas Shock AbsorberHDMIImmobilizerLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsManual Windows - Front and RearMP3Multi-Information DisplayOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPower OutletsPower SteeringRadioSeatbeltsSpare WheelTiptronic GearsWheels - AlloyWinchWireless Headphones

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Fuel Economy

The Honda CR-V clearly leads with an impressive fuel economy of 6.4 L/100km, making it the top choice for reducing running costs in Bahrain.

2

Best for Cargo Capacity

With a massive trunk capacity of up to 1,113 L, the Honda CR-V is the undisputed winner for those who need ample space for luggage or family gear.

3

Best for Overall Value

Starting at a lower price of 8,999 BHD and offering better fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V provides excellent value for money and practicality.

4

Best for Engine Variety

The Kia Sportage offers a broader selection of engine displacements (1,600 – 2,400 cc), giving buyers more choices to match their performance preferences.

Pros & cons

Honda CR-V

Pros

  • Exceptional fuel efficiency (as low as 6.4 L/100km)
  • Vastly superior trunk capacity (up to 1,113 L)
  • More accessible starting price (8,999 BHD)
  • Higher top speed (200 km/h)

Cons

  • CVT transmission may not suit all driving styles
  • Limited engine options compared to Sportage
  • Slightly slower acceleration than Sportage's quickest trim

Kia Sportage

Pros

  • Wider range of engine displacement options (1,600 – 2,400 cc)
  • Traditional automatic transmission for a familiar drive
  • Potentially quicker acceleration in some trims (9.6 s)
  • More varied dimensions across available trims

Cons

  • Less fuel-efficient (starting from 7.9 L/100km)
  • Significantly smaller maximum trunk capacity (830 L)
  • Higher entry-level price (9,495 BHD)
  • Lower maximum top speed (185 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Which SUV is more fuel-efficient, the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage?

The Honda CR-V is significantly more fuel-efficient, achieving as low as 6.4 L/100km compared to the Kia Sportage's 7.9 L/100km. For daily commutes and long journeys in Bahrain, the CR-V will offer better savings on fuel costs.

Which offers more cargo space, the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage?

The Honda CR-V provides substantially more cargo space, boasting up to 1,113 liters of trunk capacity, while the Kia Sportage offers a maximum of 830 liters. If carrying large items or extensive family luggage is a priority, the CR-V is the clear winner.

Is the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage better for families in Bahrain?

For families in Bahrain, the Honda CR-V generally presents a better option due to its superior fuel economy and significantly larger trunk space, making it more practical for family trips and daily errands. Its lower starting price also adds to its family-friendly appeal.

What are the engine options like for the Honda CR-V versus the Kia Sportage?

The Kia Sportage offers a broader range of engine displacement options, from 1,600 cc to 2,400 cc, providing more choices for performance. The Honda CR-V, on the other hand, comes with a single 2,356 cc engine option, focusing on efficiency and consistent performance.

Which has a better starting price, the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage?

The Honda CR-V has a more attractive starting price in Bahrain at 8,999 BHD, compared to the Kia Sportage's entry price of 9,495 BHD. This makes the CR-V the more budget-friendly option for initial purchase.