Update: Since this first drive was originally published in August, 2020, we finished testing the Honda HR-V. Read the complete HR-V road test.
The second-generation Honda HR-V is larger, more powerful, and better equipped than the model it replaces. In fact, it feels more like a direct heir to earlier CR-Vs than a next-generation HR-V due to the added size and comforts.
The original HR-V was spun off from the now-discontinued Fit subcompact hatchback for the 2016 model year, creating a low-priced starter SUV. This redesigned version steps up to the newly redesigned Civic’s platform, granting it a longer length and wheelbase, more interior space, a larger engine, and an independent rear suspension.
These significant improvements position the HR-V well against the latest competition, which includes models that didn’t exist when it was first introduced, like the Chevrolet Trailblazer and Toyota Corolla Cross.
Gaining 11 inches in length, this new HR-V is longer than most subcompact SUVs. Those expanded dimensions put it quite close to the current CR-V in length and width. And no surprise: The 2023 Honda CR-V will grow in size to make room.
Along with the numerous upgrades comes a base price that’s almost $2,000 more than the 2022 model. But that money looks to be well spent based on our time with an HR-V Sport purchased for our test program and an HR-V EX-L rented from Honda.
The all-wheel-drive mid-trim Sport [$28,395] is nicely equipped and visually distinguished by 18-inch wheels and black trim. The more upscale all-wheel-drive EX-L [$30,195] has a bit more flash, convenience, leather upholstery, and a powered moonroof.
If you’re a Consumer Reports member, our initial expert assessment of the Honda HR-V is available to you below. We since put the Honda HR-V through more than 50 tests at the CR Auto Test Center, including empirical measurements of acceleration, braking, handling, car-seat fit, and usability. CR members have access to the full road-test results.
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What we bought: 2023 Honda HR-V Sport AWD
Powertrain: 158-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, continuously variable transmission, AWD
MSRP: $27,150
Options: Nordic Forest paint, $395
Destination fee: $1,245
Total cost: $28,790
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We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.
The 2023 Honda HR-V is all new and uses the same platform and 4-cylinder powertrain found in the similarly revamped Civic. The previous HR-V was based on the discontinued Honda Fit subcompact hatchback.
This translates to a modern look inside and out, along with a significantly improved suspension that makes the 2023 HR-V more comfortable and, for a practical subcompact SUV, also relatively fun to drive.
Available in three trim levels, the base HR-V LX comes in front-wheel-drive format and has a starting price of $23,650, not including a $1,125 destination fee. This is slightly more than the entry-level versions of rivals like the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona, but on par with segment pricing.
Adding all-wheel drive [AWD] to any HR-V costs an additional $1,500. This improves all-weather grip, though it does slightly lower the HR-V’s fuel economy.
The HR-V Sport is next on the trim ladder. Starting at $25,650, it adds features like 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, remote start, and keyless entry.
But what if you want to head to the top of the pecking order and put the HR-V EX-L in your garage or driveway?
As the top-of-the-line trim, the EX-L comes with a wide range of popular tech and safety features, such as wireless smartphone charging, 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, 9-inch infotainment screen [versus a 7-inch screen found in lower trims], front and rear parking sensors, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, low-speed braking control, leather seating surfaces, and a power moonroof.
In fact, since a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and continuously variable automatic transmission are found in every 2023 HR-V, the only major options available on the EX-L include all-wheel drive, five paint choices [including two extra-cost premium finishes], bronze-finish or black alloy wheels, and a few appearance packages.
The aptly-named Rugged Package, for example, costs $1,100 and adds black fender flares to go along with a revised front grille and lower door trim.
With destination factored into the price, the HR-V EX-L starts at $28,695, though a fully-loaded version easily crests $30,000. Let’s recap some of what you get on the 2023 Honda HR-V, and take a closer look at the features SUV shoppers will appreciate most of all.
- 9-inch touchscreen
- Wireless smartphone charging
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- 8-power power driver’s seated
- Power moonroof
- Ambient interior lighting
- All-wheel drive
- Remote start
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Low-speed braking control
- 8-speaker audio system
Added Tech Features
Since the primary means of adding features to the 2023 HR-V is by scaling up the three available trims, versus adding endless option packages, let’s take a broader look at what you get for your money. The EX-L is the only trim with a larger 9-inch touchscreen that’s compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also comes with a handy wireless charging pad to keep your various phones at peak performance.
Rugged Package or HPD Package
If you want a little more visual attitude with your HR-V, the aforementioned Rugged Package or HPD Package are available. The HPD Package, which stands for Honda Performance Development, takes a sporty approach. At $1,400, it adds black alloy wheels, slightly more aggressive exterior trim at the front and rear, plus HPD emblems.
Extra Safety Items
The HR-V EX-L comes with safety features that are standard in the rest of the lineup, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a multi-angle rearview camera. These are part of the Honda Sensing Suite of active safety features. To this mix, the EX-L trim adds low-speed braking control, front and rear parking sensors, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.
More Honda HR-V
Build and price your own 2023 Honda HR-V to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or see Honda HR-V models for sale near you.