If you’re shopping for a fuel-efficient SUV, the Honda CR-V Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid are two of the best options in the compact SUV segment.
Both offer strong MPG, smooth hybrid systems, and available AWD.
Below is a simple, side-by-side fuel economy comparison to help you decide.
Quick MPG Answer (Direct Comparison)
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: Up to 43 city / 36 highway / 40 combined MPG (FWD)
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: Up to 42 city / 44 highway / 43 combined MPG (FWD)
- Best Combined MPG: 👉 Kia Sportage Hybrid
If you drive mostly highway miles, the Sportage Hybrid has an edge.
If you want balanced city efficiency with Honda reliability, the CR-V Hybrid is excellent.
City / Highway / Combined MPG Table
| Model | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | FWD | 43 | 36 | 40 |
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | AWD | 40 | 34 | 37 |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | FWD | 42 | 44 | 43 |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | AWD | 38 | 38 | 38 |
Key Takeaways:
- 🚗 Best Highway MPG: Sportage Hybrid (44 MPG)
- 🏙️ Best City MPG: CR-V Hybrid (43 MPG)
- 🔋 Best Overall Combined: Sportage Hybrid (43 MPG)
AWD vs FWD Fuel Economy Comparison
Adding AWD usually reduces MPG slightly.
| Model | FWD Combined | AWD Combined | MPG Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honda CR-V Hybrid | 40 MPG | 37 MPG | −3 MPG |
| Kia Sportage Hybrid | 43 MPG | 38 MPG | −5 MPG |
What This Means:
- Honda loses less MPG when adding AWD.
- Kia gives higher FWD MPG but drops more with AWD.
If you live in snowy areas, AWD is helpful — but expect slightly lower fuel efficiency.
Real-World MPG (Owner Reports)
EPA numbers are tested in controlled conditions. In real driving:
- Honda CR-V Hybrid: 36–40 MPG combined
- Kia Sportage Hybrid: 38–42 MPG combined
Highway drivers often see:
- Sportage performs better on long highway trips.
- CR-V performs better in stop-and-go traffic.
Driving style matters a lot:
- Smooth acceleration = better MPG
- Heavy throttle = lower MPG
Fuel Cost Estimate (12,000 Miles Per Year)
Assuming:
- Gas price: $3.50 per gallon
- Driving: 12,000 miles per year
Honda CR-V Hybrid (40 MPG combined FWD)
- 12,000 ÷ 40 = 300 gallons
- 300 × $3.50 = $1,050 per year
Kia Sportage Hybrid (43 MPG combined FWD)
- 12,000 ÷ 43 = 279 gallons
- 279 × $3.50 = $976 per year
💰 Annual Savings:
Sportage Hybrid saves about $70–$80 per year over CR-V Hybrid.
Not huge — but over 5 years, that’s about $350–$400 saved.
FAQ
1. Which hybrid SUV has better gas mileage?
The Kia Sportage Hybrid has better combined and highway MPG.
2. Is Honda CR-V Hybrid more reliable?
Honda has a strong reliability reputation. The CR-V Hybrid has been proven over multiple years.
3. Does AWD reduce MPG a lot?
Yes. Expect a drop of 3–5 MPG depending on the model.
4. Which is better for highway driving?
The Sportage Hybrid is better for long highway commutes.
5. Which is better for city driving?
The CR-V Hybrid slightly wins in city MPG.
