Automotive

2023 Honda HR-V Review: Right Sized SUV

The Honda HR-V grew nearly nine inches for this second generation model. And, in doing so, it gained a lot more uses that are user friendly.

For its second-generation, Honda sent the HR-V to the gym and fed it a strict, protein rich diet. For 2023, it returns bigger, stronger, and more capable in most every attribute. Now built from the latest Honda Civic platform, the HR-V gets a 2.0-liter engine to replace the 1.8-liter and up to 55 cubic feet of cargo room with the second row folded. EX-L trims get a decent hunk of luxury too.

Honda HR-V Overview:

Honda offers three trims of the HR-V: LX, Sport, and this EX-L. The LX starts at $24,895. The AWD EX-L requires at least $30,195. And my test car included a $395 premium paint named Nordic Forest Pearl and cost $30,590. I enjoyed the wireless Qi charger, dual-zone climate control, and moonroof that is exclusive to the top trim.

EX-L is alone in offering a 9.0-inch center console touch screen as well. LX and Sport’s get a 7.0-inch screen. The larger screen includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, the smaller screen requires a usb connection. No worries, the HR-V offers several ports. Sport and EX-L trims also get heated front seats.

Powering every HR-V is a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter I-4, which is the same engine mounted in the base Honda Civic sedan and hatchback. It’s an aluminum block and head, four-valves per cylinder, with a 10.8:1 compression ratio, and VTEC. Peak numbers come to 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. Before making its way to either the front- or all-four-wheels, power goes through a continuously variable transmission. You choose between front- or all-wheel-drive on every trim, AWD is an extra $1500.

The two-row, five seat, crossover SUV provides plenty of space for passengers. And healthy amounts of cargo space: 24 cubic feet behind the back row. And 55 cubic feet of space when that row is lowered.

Based off of the eleventh-generation Honda Civic platform, the HR-V received a big upgrade in terms of body structure and suspension geometry. But that doesn’t make it a tall Civic station wagon, as the tuning is much more focused on comfort than its Civic stablemates. The HR-V also offers lots of usable space for such a small package.

Please check out my video above to see more and hear my full opinion. I strive to provide a detailed understanding of the Honda HR-V.

What’s Good:
Efficient space. Smart features.		What Could be better: Wind and road noise permeates the cabin on the interstate. My conclusion: A great starter for a young couple or empty nesters.

Another crossover SUV to keep your eye on: 2023 Hyundai Palisade

Here’s my reveal story on the new Honda HR-V: here

MAIN COMPETITORS:

SPECIFICATIONS:

2023 Honda HR-V AWD EX-L: 5-door, 5-seat, crossover SUV

  • Base price: $30,195
  • Price as tested: $30,590         
  • Options: Nordic Forest Pearl paint, $395
  • Powertrain:
    • Engine: 2.0-liter I-4
      • Power: 158 horsepower at 6500 rpm
      • Torque: 138 lb-ft at 4200 rpm
    • Transmission: continuously variable transmission
    • Drive: all-wheel-drive
  • Fuel Economy
    • City 25 mpg
    • Highway 30 mpg
    • Combined 27 mpg
  • Dimensions
    • Length: 179.8 inches
    • Width: 72.4 inches
    • Height: 63.4 inches
    • Wheelbase: 104.5 inches
  • Weights and Capacities
    • Curb weight: 3333 lbs.
    • Interior volume: 97 cu ft
    • Cargo volume (2nd/1st rows up): 24/55 cu ft
  • Calculated weight to power: 21.1 pounds per horsepower
  • Mfr’s claimed 0-60 mph: na seconds
  • Mfr’s claimed Top Speed: na mph
  • Government classified size: small station wagon

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