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- Highs Fuel-efficient powertrain, cargo-hauling champ, quality cabin materials.
- Lows Unrefined engine, suspension doesn't soak up bumps, could use more power.
- Verdict For maximizing cargo space and versatility while still preserving small-car fuel economy, the Honda HR-V is tough to beat.
Overview
Little SUVs are all the rage, and while we figure most buyers are choosing them for their stylish exteriors or active-lifestyle image, some offerings—like the 2021 Honda HR-V—offer a surprising amount of practicality, too. Given that Honda will discontinue the Fit hatchback after the 2020 model year, the HR-V will soon serve as the smallest vehicle in the brand's North American lineup. Luckily, much of what we love about the Fit continues to live on in the HR-V, including the novel Magic Seat second row, which folds down to transform the ute's cabin into a cargo-hauling champ. The rest of the HR-V's interior is well built if somewhat blandly styled, and it's filled with plenty of creature comforts that will satisfy most small-SUV buyers. In our testing, the HR-V is tediously slow to accelerate, so those in need of additional pep should consider the turbocharged versions of the Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos.
What's New for 2021?
The 2021 models will see only minor changes, with Sport models of the HR-V receiving a new wheel design and window tint on the rear windows.
Pricing and Which One to Buy
Sure, the HR-V isn't the cheapest or snazziest subcompact SUV, but it's a brilliant option for people who want one of the most practical vehicles in the class. That said, we think the mid-level EX model is the one to get. While it obviously costs more than the lesser HR-V Sport, it has better standard features. The most notable upgrades include heated front seats, passive entry, a sunroof, and several driver assists (adaptive cruise, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist).
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Slow, noisy, and unrefined, the HR-V's four-cylinder engine won't satisfy your inner street racer, and the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) exacerbates the engine's incivility. With front-wheel drive, the HR-V managed a rather sluggish 8.6-second 60-mph time. Adding all-wheel drive slowed it even further, to 9.5 seconds. The HR-V retains the sprightly and eager handling of the Fit hatchback on which it's based, but don't push it too hard. Choppiness when driving over rough roads and body roll in cornering could be resolved with better suspension damping, but when cruising on a level road or highway, the HR-V settles into a more even ride.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The HR-V proves itself to be mighty efficient on an EPA chart; however, it underdelivered in our real-world testing. The all-wheel-drive model we tested back in 2016 managed 30 mpg on our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
Its classy well-made interior may not set hearts racing, but outward visibility is good and passenger space is acceptable. Most luxurious features are limited to the top-spec Touring model. The spacious front seats will provide enough head- and legroom for all but the tallest passengers. The rear seat has tons of legroom, too, but headroom isn't as generous, thanks to the Honda's sloping roofline. The HR-V's party trick is its second-row Magic Seat. When released, the rear seatbacks fold flat. Combined with the low load floor, it makes packing the cargo hold a cinch. The bottom cushion of the rear seat can also be flipped up, providing an even deeper well between the front and rear seatbacks for taller items. With the rear seats stowed, we managed to fit 22 of our carry-on suitcases inside—more than some larger crossovers can manage.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The HR-V offers a Display Audio infotainment system that includes a volume knob, large on-screen icons, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration. This 7.0-inch touchscreen comes standard on all but the base LX trim, which gets a simpler setup that is basically a radio with a color screen.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
Overall Safety Rating (NHTSA)
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has bestowed a five-star safety rating onto the HR-V, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named it a Top Safety Pick. Plus, the little crossover offers a variety of driver-assistance technology. Key safety features include:
- Available automated emergency braking
- Available adaptive cruise control
- Available lane-keeping assist
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
As with the rest of the vehicle, the HR-V's warranty coverage is entirely ordinary. Only Kia and Hyundai offer more coverage.
- Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
- No complimentary scheduled maintenance
Specifications
Specifications
2019 Honda HR-V Touring AWD
VEHICLE TYPE
front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
PRICE AS TESTED
$29,585 (base price: $29,585)
ENGINE TYPE
SOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port fuel injection
Displacement
110 cu in, 1799 cc
Power
141 hp @ 6500 rpm
Torque
127 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm
TRANSMISSION
continuously variable automatic with manual shifting mode
CHASSIS
Suspension (F/R): struts/torsion beam
Brakes (F/R): 11.5-in vented disc/11.1-in disc
Tires: Michelin Primacy MXV4, 215/55R-17 94V M+S
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 102.8 in
Length: 170.9 in
Width: 70.5 in
Height: 96 in
Cargo volume: 23 cu ft
Curb weight: 3169 lb
C/D
TEST RESULTS
Zero to 60 mph: 10.2 sec
Zero to 100 mph: 33.5 sec
Rolling start, 5–60 mph: 10.3 sec
Top gear, 30–50 mph: 4.9 sec
Top gear, 50–70 mph: 6.9 sec
Standing ¼-mile: 17.8 sec @ 81 mph
Top speed (drag limited): 116 mph
Braking, 70–0 mph: 180 ft
Roadholding, 300-ft-dia skidpad: 0.84 g
C/D
FUEL ECONOMY
Observed: 28 mpg
75-mph highway driving: 30 mpg
Highway range: 390 miles
EPA FUEL ECONOMY
Combined/city/highway: 28/26/31 mpg
