2023 Honda HR-V: Is This Subcompact Crossover Grown Up?

2023 Honda HR-V: Is This Subcompact Crossover Grown Up?

Did Honda make a bigger HR-V for 2023? It sure looks that way. This new subcompact crossover enters a new generation for 2023 to be bigger and better.

No matter how you slice it, the HR-V isn’t a large vehicle, but that doesn’t stop it from being one of the best you’ll find in its class. The rear seat area is more welcoming, giving you room for adults which can feel great in this area. If you want to enjoy a small, quiet, and impressive crossover that comes at a great price, this Honda could be right for you.

What safety features are included in this Honda crossover?

If you want the most safety features offered, you’ll need to step up to the top EX-L trim of the HR-V. There are only three trims, which means the choice should be pretty easy when you’re looking for a great little crossover to drive. The safety equipment you can have in this Honda includes:

  • Blind-spot information system
  • Rear cross-traffic alerts
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Collision mitigation braking
  • Road departure mitigation
  • Lane keeping assist
  • Pedestrian detection
  • Multi-angle rearview camera
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Traffic jam assist
  • Adaptive cruise control with low speed follow

Does this small crossover hit the right notes?

When you want an affordable small SUV to handle your daily commute, the Honda HR-V can be perfect for the task. On the other hand, like so many small vehicles, this Honda SUV has some blemishes you might not want to overlook. Here are some of the pros and cons of this little Honda.

Pro

  • Improved interior that offers better materials than before
  • Impressive handling
  • More spacious than before

Con

  • No rear seat vents
  • Slow acceleration
  • Uncomfortable front seats

What platform is used for the HR-V?

The new HR-V shares its platform with the Honda Civic, which is also new. This gives the HR-V a better ride and more quality than before. The 2023 version is more expensive than the previous version, but it has more qualities for consumers to enjoy.

The only powertrain offered for all trims of the HR-V is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to a CVT automatic transmission. This powertrain delivers 158 horsepower to your drive, which is more than enough to give you the 25 city/30 hwy mpg quoted for the HR-V. Unfortunately, this powertrain is only offered with FWD. AWD is not an option for this Honda SUV.

How much room does this Honda offer?

The Magic Seat is no longer part of the package for the Honda HR-V, but that doesn’t stop this new model from being larger and more comfortable than the previous generation model. You’ll find 37.7 inches of rear legroom to offer one of the most spacious rear areas in this class. This small crossover also delivers 24.4 cubic feet of cargo room behind the seats, which expands to 55.1 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down. This is one of the largest crossovers in the subcompact class.

What does each trim of the Honda HR-V offer?

With only three trims comprising the HR-V lineup, you’ll find the equipment desired at three different levels. Let’s see what each one offers to find out which model could be the one you’ll want to drive today.

LX trim (base model)

When all you need are the basics, and you want to keep the price down, the LX trim is the right version for you. The LX trim of the HR-V includes:

  • Honda Sensing
    • Single-camera system
    • Forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection
    • Automatic emergency braking
    • Lane-keeping assist
    • Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow
    • Lane-departure warning and mitigation
    • Tire pressure monitor
    • Traffic Jam Assist
    • Traffic Sign Recognition
  • Automatic high-beam headlights
  • Rear Seat Reminder
  • LED headlights
  • LED taillights
  • Power mirrors
  • Remote keyless entry
  • 17-inch silver-painted alloy wheels
  • Hill Descent Control
  • Three driving modes: Normal, Eco, Snow
  • Automatic climate controls
  • Push-button starting
  • Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
  • Bluetooth audio controls
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • 7-inch digital driver’s screen
  • 7-inch color infotainment screen
  • 180-watt/4-speaker audio system
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Android Auto
  • HondaLink apps

Sport Trim

When you want more style, the Honda HR-V Sport is the trim you’ll want to drive. This is the middle model in the lineup, and it brings you more of what you want. This trim includes:

  • Remote engine starting
  • 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels
  • Heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals
  • Sport grille
  • Chrome exhaust ports
  • Dark-tined rear privacy glass
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Proximity key fob
  • Heated front seats/li>
  • Six-speaker audio system
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel

The added features of the Sport trim allow this version of the HR-V to become a more attractive and useful small SUV for you to drive and enjoy.

EX-L Trim

The top model offered in the HR-V range is the EX-L trim. Although this version sits at the top of the list, it still comes to you at an affordable price that never crosses the $30,000 threshold. If you’re looking for everything this little crossover can offer, this is the trim for you. The EX-L model includes:

  • 17-inch machined alloy wheels
  • Front and rear parking sensors
  • Low-speed raking control
  • Power moonroof
  • Leather upholstery
  • 8-way power driver’s seat
  • Dual-zone automatic climate controls
  • Auto-dimming rearview mirror
  • Ambient LED lighting
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • SiriusXM satellite radio
  • 9-inch color touchscreen
  • 8-speaker audio system
  • HD Radio
  • Wireless device charging

Is the new Honda HR-V the right small SUV?

Are you looking for a subcompact crossover SUV that delivers new features, a larger build, and three levels of quality? Do you want this SUV to stay within an affordable price point? The new 2023 Honda HR-V is the right choice when you want a vehicle with a proven track record that fits everywhere while giving you plenty of great features to enjoy. Which version of this subcompact crossover SUV will be the one that you want to drive and enjoy every day?

This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning a commission is given should you decide to make a purchase through these links, at no cost to you. All products shown are researched and tested to give an accurate review for you.

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