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 families and practical buyers, excelling with its significantly larger cargo capacity and superior fuel economy. However, the Kia Sportage offers a more diverse range of engine options and can deliver slightly quicker acceleration in its higher trims, appealing to those who prioritize performance variety and a potentially lower entry price.
Other Years
20262025202420232022
#1#2
Price Comparison
Starting at9,100 – 12,290 BHD0 – 11,050 BHD
Engine & Power
Engine2,356 cc · 4 cyl1,598 – 2,400 cc · 4 cyl
Horsepower (bhp)184 hp155 – 184 hp
Torque (Nm)244 Nm192 – 265 Nm
Acceleration 0-100 Km/h (sec)9.8 s8.8 – 11.1 s
Top Speed (Km/h)200 km/h181 – 201 km/h
Fuel Economy (L/100 Km)6.4 – 6.8 L/100km7.5 – 8.6 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity57 L54 – 62 L
Gears—6 – 7
TransmissionCVTAutomatic
Drive TypeAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel DriveAll Wheel Drive / Front Wheel Drive
Fuel TypePetrolPetrol
Battery Size1.4 kWh—
Measurements
L×W×H4.6 m × 1.9 m × 1.7 m4.5 / 4.5 / 4.7 m × 1.9 / 1.9 m × 1.6 / 1.7 / 1.7 m
Wheelbase (meters)2.7 m2.7 / 2.7 / 2.8 / 2.8 m
Curb Weight (kg)1,520 – 1,620 kg1,538 – 1,690 kg
Trunk Capacity (liters)1,113 L538 – 591 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 SteeringActive Understeer Control (AUC)AirbagsAlloy PedalsAnti theft alarmAnti-theft Wheel BoltsAuto Door LockAUXBA (Brake Assist)Blind Spot WarningBluetoothBody Colored GrilleBumper Side StepCD PlayerCentral LockingChrome Door HandlesChrome Exhaust PipesClimate ControlCollision DetectionDisc BrakesDoor Edge ProtectorEBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution)Electric Opening and Closing of Luggage DoorElectric SunroofFire ExtinguisherFog Lamp - Front and RearFoldable Rear Seats with 60:40 SplitGas Shock AbsorberGlove Box CoolingHDMIImmobilizerInfotainment ScreenLED Fog LightsLED HeadlightsLED TaillightsLegroomManual ACManual Windows - Front and RearMoonroofMoving Object Detection SystemMP3MudguardMulti-Information DisplayNight VisionNumber of SpeakersOBD (On-board Diagnostics)Off Road KItOff-Road DampersParking SensorsPedestrian airbagPerformance TyresPower LocksPower MirrorsPower OutletsPower SeatsPower SteeringPower WindowsRacing Or Bucket SeatsRadioRear Audio ControlsRear Lcd screensRemote StartRemote Windows DownSeatbeltsSpare WheelSpeed Sensitive Windshield WipersSpoilerSports Exhaust SystemTiptronic GearsTouchscreen SizeVariable Cylinder Management (VCM)Wheel SizeWheels - AlloyWinchWireless HeadphonesWood Trim

Which one should you buy?

1

Best for Cargo & Families

The Honda CR-V is the clear winner for carrying capacity, boasting a massive 1,113 liters of trunk space, making it ideal for large families or those needing ample storage.

2

Best for Fuel Efficiency

For economical driving, the Honda CR-V takes the lead with an impressive fuel economy as low as 6.4 L/100km, offering better savings at the pump compared to the Sportage.

3

Best for Performance Options

The Kia Sportage provides more powertrain choices, with a broader range of engines and the potential for quicker acceleration (8.8 seconds) in its top specifications, suiting drivers seeking varied performance.

4

Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers

With a price range that starts lower than the CR-V, the Kia Sportage offers a more accessible entry point and a wider array of trims to fit different budgets.

Pros & cons

Honda CR-V

Pros

  • Significantly larger trunk capacity (1,113 L)
  • Superior fuel economy (6.4 L/100km)
  • Consistent 184 hp power output
  • Premium feel implied by higher starting price

Cons

  • Higher entry price (9,100 BHD)
  • Less diverse powertrain options (single engine, CVT)
  • Slower acceleration (9.8 s)
  • Lower peak torque (244 Nm)

Kia Sportage

Pros

  • Wider range of engine options (1.6L to 2.4L)
  • Potentially faster acceleration (8.8 s at best)
  • More accessible starting price point
  • Traditional automatic transmission available
  • Higher peak torque (265 Nm)

Cons

  • Smaller maximum trunk capacity (591 L)
  • Higher fuel consumption (7.5 L/100km at best)
  • Potentially lower standard features at base price
  • Lower top speed in some trims (181 km/h)

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage better for families and cargo space?

The Honda CR-V is definitively better for families and cargo space, offering a generous 1,113 liters of trunk capacity. This is significantly more than the Kia Sportage's maximum of 591 liters. For those needing to transport larger items or accommodate family needs, the CR-V provides superior practicality.

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

The Honda CR-V is more fuel-efficient in Bahrain, with a fuel economy rating as low as 6.4 L/100km. In contrast, the Kia Sportage's best fuel economy starts at 7.5 L/100km. Drivers prioritizing lower running costs and fewer trips to the petrol station should opt for the CR-V.

Which car offers better performance, the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage?

While both models offer competitive performance, the Kia Sportage can provide a more dynamic driving experience with its broader range of engine options and a quicker acceleration of 8.8 seconds in its top trims, compared to the CR-V's 9.8 seconds. If varied performance and quicker sprints are a priority, the Sportage might be more appealing.

Which is more affordable, the Honda CR-V or Kia Sportage in Bahrain?

The Kia Sportage generally offers a more accessible entry price point, with its price range starting from 0 BHD up to 11,050 BHD, whereas the Honda CR-V starts at 9,100 BHD. Buyers with a tighter budget or seeking a wider range of price options may find the Sportage more suitable.

What are the main differences between the Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage transmissions?

The Honda CR-V comes exclusively with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), known for smooth power delivery and efficiency. The Kia Sportage, on the other hand, offers a more traditional automatic transmission with 6 or 7 gears, which some drivers prefer for a more conventional shift feel. Your preference for transmission type might influence your choice.