Battle of the corporate cousins
The 2025 Acura ADX and the 2025 Honda HR-V may share family DNA, but they are aimed at two very different buyers. The HR-V has been a long-standing go-to for drivers who want an affordable, practical crossover with strong value. The ADX, on the other hand, is Acura’s first subcompact SUV, and it brings turbocharged power, luxury features, and premium technology to the table. While it’s easy to dismiss the new Acura as being an HR-V with makeup on, it’s much more than that.
The HR-V prioritizes utility and everyday affordability, while the ADX leans more into a premium experience with upscale materials, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a sportier feel behind the wheel. That means the choice comes down to whether you want the best balance of price and practicality or if you’re ready to upgrade to something more refined without jumping into a large SUV. If you’re deciding between these two small crossovers, here are five key differences that will help you figure out which one makes the most sense for your lifestyle and budget.
N.D. Adlen
#1. Engine performance: Turbo power or everyday efficiency?
While these two SUVs share the same platform, which is evident just by looking at them, the main difference between them lies beneath their hoods. The Acura ADX is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that produces 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, while the Honda HR-V comes with a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine that puts out 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque.
Both cars come standard with a front-wheel drive configuration, but they also offer all-wheel drive as an option. The ADX uses Acura’s Super-Handling AWD system, which can send 50 percent of the torque to the rear wheels for better handling and traction, while the HR-V’s system is tuned more for efficiency than performance.
Honda
#2. Interior comfort and space: Luxury vs. practicality
Although both cars share similar interior space and cargo volume, their cabin designs are different. The Acura ADX features high-end materials like Milano leather, ambient lighting options, and open-pore wood trim. It also has larger displays in the form of a 10.2-inch digital cluster with a nine-inch infotainment screen, and is available with a premium audio system, a heads-up display, wireless charging, and a hands-free liftgate.
The Honda HR-V has a functional and more utilitarian interior layout with a simpler design. It comes standard with a cloth interior and entry-level leather that feels a little less premium than what you’ll find in the ADX. It offers a nine-inch infotainment screen and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but lacks some of the more premium touches that the Acura has. Additionally, the HR-V has a “Magic Seat,” which is a flexible rear seat that flips and folds to accommodate taller cargo items.
Honda
#3. Technology and safety features
Both SUVs are filled with technology when it comes to safety and entertainment. The ADX is equipped with the brand’s AcuraWatch system, a suite of driver-assist features that include adaptive cruise control, traffic jam assist, and blind spot monitoring. However, it also features entertainment and convenience options, including a Bang & Olufsen sound system, remote start, and adaptive dampers.
The HR-V has similar features, as it is equipped with the Honda Sensing suite of driver assists. That suite has the same driving modes, including adaptive cruise control, low-speed follow, lane-keep assist, and blind spot monitors. Its interior is highly functional, but it lacks some of the premium features that the Acura has.
Acura
#4. Cargo space and utility: Which SUV fits your needs?
These SUVs are corporate cousins, and they share the same platform, but their dimensions differ slightly. They both have a 104.5-inch wheelbase, but the ADX is slightly longer and wider than the HR-V. It has a slightly smaller 26.7-cubic-foot cargo space, but it adds a power tailgate for some added convenience. The HR-V has a little more cargo room, but the real highlight when it comes to cargo is the aforementioned Magic rear seat.
#5. Price and value
Of course, when shopping for an entry-level SUV, price is a big part of the process. Fortunately, both SUVs are priced well in their segments, as they are meant to be budget-friendly, but each one is positioned differently in the market. The Acura ADX is marketed as a subcompact luxury crossover, which starts at $35,000 and tops out at around $44,000 for the highest trim level. The HR-V is a more practical and wallet-pleasing option, with a starting price of $26,200 that increases to $30,500 when all option boxes are checked.
Acura
Final thoughts
If you’re shopping for a subcompact crossover, the 2025 Honda HR-V and Acura ADX are excellent options. However, picking between these two can be tough, considering they are very similar. However, in reality, it ultimately comes down to your needs and budget. If you need more flexible cargo options and want to save money, the HR-V could be the better choice. If you want a touch of luxury, in addition to more premium features, a stronger engine, and an adjustable ride, the ADX could be for you as long as you don’t mind spending an extra $8,000 to $10,000.