10 Cars Like Honda HR-Vs: Similar Rides Worth Checking Out

in Car Comparisons
Silver Honda HR-V

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The subcompact SUV is one of the most cutthroat segments in the automotive market, with some of the best-selling vehicles for your choosing. The Honda HR-V is one such option aimed at customers looking for an entry-level subcompact that focuses on value, practicality, and affordability. While it may not win awards in comfort or performance, this vehicle offers reliable and efficient transportation.

However, if the HR-V doesn’t quite meet your needs, you have no shortage of alternatives. So today, we will highlight the ten best cars like the Honda HR-V and discuss what makes them compelling options.

1. Toyota Corolla Cross

The Toyota Corolla Cross and the Honda HR-V are natural competitors due to their similarities in being based on each carmaker’s popular compact sedans. The HR-V is based on the Civic, while the Cross is based on the Toyota Corolla. The Corolla Cross has a unique design and a practical interior, but the HR-V has a slightly more premium finish with better materials. Both cars offer standard gasoline and a hybrid powertrain. Still, the hybrid variant of the Corolla Cross provides better acceleration and fuel efficiency when compared to the HR-V’s single-engine option.

Regarding cargo space, the Corolla Cross offers a larger maximum capacity, while the HR-V has more space behind the rear seats. Both cars have comprehensive safety features and similar technology offerings, with the Corolla Cross having an additional integrated navigation feature as a bonus.

2. Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek is another solid competitor to the Honda HR-V. Of course, one of the best advantages of the Crosstrek is the standard all-wheel drive and a choice of two engines, including a more efficient base engine than the HR-V’s single-engine option. The Crosstrek also has a well-designed interior with quality materials and layout, plus potential for off-road capability, particularly in the Wilderness trim. While the HR-V excels in cargo space and interior room, the Crosstrek’s overall performance, efficiency, and off-road readiness make it a strong competitor in the subcompact SUV segment.


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3. Hyundai Kona

If you’re considering the Hyundai Kona as an alternative to the Honda HR-V, you’ll find several appealing aspects. This funky subcompact SUV offers a unique 8-speed automatic transmission, offering a more engaging drive with paddle shifters, contrasted with the HR-V’s CVT system. Fuel efficiency is also a strong point for the Kona, especially on highways, which might sway your decision if saving at the pump is a priority. Safety features like the standard blind-spot monitor in the Kona give it an edge, although the HR-V offers more legroom.

4. Mazda CX-30

At the number four spot, the Mazda CX-30 emerges as one of the best cars like the Honda HR-V – with several noteworthy advantages. For starters, it’s notably faster, with better acceleration across various speeds. The CX-30’s fuel efficiency is also a highlight, slightly outperforming the HR-V, particularly in its all-wheel-drive configuration.

Additionally, the CX-30 boasts superior braking performance, which could be crucial for safety and handling. Its variable-assist power steering provides a more responsive driving experience, demonstrating better maneuverability and ground clearance for off-road capability. Overall, it’s a solid choice if fun driving dynamics is your thing.


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5. Kia Seltos

As one of the best cars like the Honda HR-V, the Kia Seltos is worth including as a value-oriented choice in the subcompact SUV segment. It offers superior fuel economy, even with its all-wheel drive variants, compared to the HR-V. Despite being shorter in length, the Seltos provides more cargo space, making it a practical choice for those needing to transport large items. The Seltos also features a larger infotainment screen in its upper trims, enhancing the tech experience, although adaptive cruise control is limited to its highest trim. 

6. Volkswagen Taos

The Volkswagen Taos is another often-cited alternative to the Honda HR-V – but the former has an edge in performance and driving dynamics. The Taos boasts a turbocharged engine, offering you more torque and, thus, more responsive acceleration compared to the HR-V. Fuel efficiency is another area where the Taos shines over the HR-V, especially in city and highway driving. Moreover, the Taos features an automatic engine start/stop system that isn’t available in the HR-V.

7. Nissan Kicks

If you’re in the market for a subcompact SUV that won’t break the bank, the Nissan Kicks is worth a look. The main selling of the Kicks is undoubtedly its lower asking price. For instance, the 2024 Nissan Kicks has a starting MSRP of $21,050, while the 2024 Honda HR-V starts at a higher MSRP of $24,600. Moreover, the Kicks’ compact size and lighter weight contribute to its agile handling, making it easier to maneuver and park, especially in tight urban spaces. While sharing seating capacity and safety features similar to the HR-V, the Kicks focuses more on efficiency and urban convenience.


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8. Buick Envista

Looking for the best cars like the Honda HR-V? Consider the Buick Envista. The Envista edges out the HR-V in performance with its 1.2 turbo 3-cylinder engine, offering more torque and slightly faster acceleration. The Envista also steps up in handling, boasting larger standard tires and optional 19-inch wheels for improved traction and a smoother ride. Its longer wheelbase further contributes to stable handling. With these features and a slightly less expensive price point, the Envista is another attractive option in the subcompact SUV segment.

9. Chevrolet Trax

The American-made Chevrolet Trax positions itself as a more affordable alternative to the Honda HR-V, marked by its lower starting price. This makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking value in the subcompact SUV market. Both the Trax and HR-V offer a suite of similar features, including Bluetooth connection, satellite radio, and smart device integration.

Safety features like lane departure warning and lane keeping assist are standard on both models, although the Trax does not come with adaptive cruise control, unlike the HR-V. Regarding space, both vehicles provide a comfortable interior and adequate cargo capacity.

10. Jeep Renegade

Lastly, despite being discontinued, the Jeep Renegade remains an exciting alternative to the Honda HR-V, especially for those interested in the unique “Jeep” ownership experience. It offers a distinctive style and off-road capability characteristic of the Jeep brand. The Renegade’s 4-star overall NHTSA crash test rating and standard features like lane departure warning and lane keeping assist make it comparable in safety to the HR-V. However, the HR-V has a slight edge in fuel economy and more cargo space. Plus, you pay a premium for the Jeep branding.



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