Honda HR-V

Overview: Is the Honda HR-V a Good Compact SUV?

The Honda HR-V is a subcompact SUV that offers versatility, efficiency, and value in a small package. While the HR-V first appeared in the late 1990s, it didn’t make its way to the U.S. until the 2016 model year as part of the second generation. Honda launched a third-generation HR-V for the 2023 model year.

Positioned below the popular CR-V in Honda's SUV lineup, the HR-V competes with other small SUVs, like the Toyota Corolla Cross and Mazda CX-30. It aims to provide the utility of an SUV with the fuel efficiency and maneuverability of a smaller vehicle.

Note: Equipment, features, and trims can vary by model year. Always confirm these details when looking for used Honda HR-V cars for sale.

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Related: The Honda HR-V Years To Avoid - CoPilot

Key Features

The Honda HR-V offers:

• Subcompact crossover SUV body style
• Two-row, five-passenger seating
• Four-cylinder engine
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel drive (AWD)
• Available suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies (varying by year)

Trims

Honda offers the HR-V in several trim levels, which have evolved across generations:

Second generation (2016-2022):

• LX: Base model with essential features
• Sport (2019-2022): Added styling elements and larger wheels
• EX: Enhanced technology and comfort features
• EX-L: Top trim with leather seating and additional luxuries
• Touring (2019-2021): A trim level above the EX-L with more premium features

Third generation (2023-Present):

• LX: Entry-level trim with core features
• Sport: Sportier styling and additional amenities
• EX-L: Top-tier trim with leather interior and advanced tech

Comfort, Technology & Cargo

The HR-V's cabin is a well-designed space that maximizes its compact dimensions. The latest generation draws inspiration from the Civic, featuring a clean, modern dashboard layout with intuitive controls. In these models, a 7-inch touchscreen (9-inch in higher trims) is the hub for infotainment, offering crisp graphics and responsive performance.

The HR-V's party piece is its flexible cargo area. Second-generation models featured the innovative "Magic Seat" system, allowing for various cargo configurations. While the third generation doesn't offer this specific feature, it still provides versatility with up to 55.1 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded.

Honda Sensing, standard on all newer HR-V models, includes features like adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist, bringing advanced safety tech to the subcompact SUV segment.

Review: How Long Do Honda HR-Vs Last? The Scoop on Vehicle Lifespan - CoPilot

How It Drives

Those looking for a more engaging driving experience may want to look beyond the HR-V; the Mazda CX-30 is one suggestion. Honda engineers prioritized efficiency over performance. If punchy acceleration isn’t mandatory, the Honda HR-V should meet your needs sufficiently. The current generation is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This setup provides adequate acceleration for daily driving while maintaining good fuel economy.

Earlier models featured a 1.8-liter engine with 141 horsepower, offering slightly less punch but similar efficiency. All-wheel drive is available across all generations, providing added traction in inclement weather.

The HR-V's compact size makes it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its well-tuned suspension soaks up road imperfections for a comfortable ride.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has awarded the Honda HR-V high marks for safety. The second and third-generation models received a five-star overall safety rating.

Reviews

Honda HR-V reviews on Kelley Blue Book provide mixed results. Owners give the second generation a reasonably good average rating of 4.1 out of 5. However, scores for the current generation fall to a subpar 3.5 rating, with consumers giving poor grades in quality, value, performance, and comfort. Reliability and styling scores are in the average range.

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Honda HR-Vs Are Most Reliable?

Honda HR-V FAQs

Which is bigger, the Honda HR-V or the Honda CR-V?

In a Honda CR-V vs. HR-V size showdown, the CR-V, a compact SUV, wins in all dimensions, offering more interior space and cargo capacity.

What is the difference between the Honda HR-V Sport and the Honda HR-V LX?

The Sport trim typically offers sportier styling elements, larger wheels, and additional features compared to the base LX trim. Exact differences vary by model year.

How many years will a Honda HR-V last?

With proper maintenance, a Honda HR-V can last 200,000 miles or more, translating to 15-20 years of use for many drivers.

What is the gas mileage of a Honda HR-V hybrid?

Honda does not offer a hybrid version of the HR-V in the U.S.

What is the Honda HR-V price?

A new Honda HR-V starts at about $25,000 for a base LX and rises to almost $31,000 for the EX-L with all-wheel drive. According to CoPilot marketplace information, a used Honda HR-V costs $8,000 to $32,000, depending on age, condition, and equipment.

Is the Honda HR-V underpowered?

The Honda HR-V may feel underpowered compared to other vehicles in its class. However, most subcompact crossovers are not known for their performance capabilities.

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