The popularity of crossover SUVs among drivers is unmistakable. In 2018, this segment represented 40 percent of the market. Today, many crossover drivers crave the perfect combination of fuel-efficiency, storage capacity and capability. In this case, consumers often turn to smaller SUVs like the Honda HR-V.
Here, we highlight some of the unique features offered by the popular Honda HR-V.
- Surprisingly quick 141-horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder
- EPA estimated 28/34 mpg city/highway
- Generous suite of infotainment, connectivity and safety features
With so many crossovers to choose from, it can feel like you’re swimming in a sea of SUVs. Fortunately, this article will cover the key specifications of the Honda HR-V and where it shines — or doesn’t shine — among its many competitors.
A Closer Look at the Honda HR-V
Honda first introduced the HR-V in 2014. Offered in three trims at the time, the company used the same styling from the Honda Fit Hatchback, albeit with more capacity and greater cargo space.
Honda designed the HR-V with additional ground clearance and a higher stance, which enabled this crossover to tackle rough road conditions. Built for up to five passengers, the HR-V evolved over time with several adjustments to its cargo room.
Honda made sure to emphasize additional interior space to please drivers who wanted enough room for their groceries, gadgets and passengers. An infotainment screen, clearly-marked gauges and a suite of technologies/advanced safety features became standard as the HR-V continued to adapt to driver demand.
A Benchmark Among Small Crossover SUVs
The HR-V is the smallest subcompact offered by Honda. When the company first introduced this SUV, many competitors began using it as their benchmark. The Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR and Hyundai Kona all take design and capability cues from the HR-V.
The HR-V only has one engine option — a surprisingly quick, extremely fuel-efficient 141 horsepower, 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. Although the engine doesn’t offer the turbocharged features some of its competitors deliver, it does get the job done with an estimated 28/34 mpg.
There is an all-wheel-drive option, but the standard front-wheel drive pairs well with the continuously variable transmission (CRV). Although you won’t win any street races, you’ll certainly get to your destination without stopping for gas a gazillion times.
The HR-V isn’t built to tackle extreme terrain, but all-wheel drive will get you through some tough road conditions. However, what the HR-V does accomplish is giving you the fuel-economy and versatility of a small car while maintaining some of the characteristics of an SUV.
Other Notable HR-V Features
With its array of creature comforts, cargo space and simple but refined interior and exterior styling, the Honda HR-V is sure to please most consumers who are in the market for a small crossover SUV.
Easy-to-use climate controls, an optional seven-inch touchscreen display, cargo flexibility with Honda’s “Magic” 60/40 flip-and-fold rear seats and collision/road mitigation systems are just a few of the generous technology/safety features offered by the HR-V.
A five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a top safety pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) round out some of the HR-V’s most prominent qualities.
What Honda HR-V Owners are Saying
As a potential car buyer, one of the most important tools you can use is to see what consumers are saying about a vehicle. If you’re thinking about buying a new or pre-owned Honda HR-V, here are a few comments from actual owners.
Pros:
- Massive cargo space, yet not a huge monstrosity
- Reliable, efficient, just a great little SUV
- Easy to park, turns on a dime, just excels as a city car
Cons:
- Way too low to the ground. No power, no guts
- Display for the back-up camera is too small
- Boring interior lighting and design
What You Can Do Before You Buy an HR-V
At VehicleHistory.com, we’re not in the business of telling potential car buyers what to do. We are, however, in the business of providing reliable, informative and trustworthy information on new or preowned vehicles you’re thinking about buying. The Honda small crossover HR-V is no exception.
