2024 Honda HR-V Assessment, Pricing, and Specs

Of the HR-V’s three trims, we think the Sport makes the most sense, and we appreciate its slightly more aggressive exterior styling: it’s the only trim that comes with 18-inch wheels, the largest offered.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

In Europe, the HR-V is powered by a hybrid powertrain borrowed from the Accord but the U.S. version comes only with a traditional gasoline 2.0-liter four-cylinder that’s good for 158 horsepower. If that sounds familiar, it’s because the same engine serves as the base powertrain in the Civic. The HR-V managed a lazy 9.4-second launch to 60 mph during our acceleration testing. That’s over a full second slower than the more powerful non-turbo Mazda CX-30. In the HR-V, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder feels lethargic and gutless, but since the SUV shares its platform with the Civic, we could see a 180-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter or a hybrid powertrain join the lineup down the road. For now, front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) are the standard arrangement, but all-wheel drive is available as an option on all trims.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Fuel economy estimates are highest on front-wheel-drive models, which are rated at 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Going with all-wheel drive drops the city rating to 25 mpg and the highway rating to 30 mpg. During our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test route the HR-V beat its EPA estimate by 2 mpg. And we managed 440 miles of highway driving on a single tank of gas. For more information about the HR-V’s fuel economy, visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The HR-V sports a modern interior design inspired by the Civic’s; it’s both classic and attractive. The front seats are comfortable and supportive while providing a wide range of adjustments. While it looks somewhat unadorned, the HR-V’s cabin is dotted with thoughtful touches and well-placed storage cubbies. Practicality is a big part of the HR-V’s appeal, and its cargo area proved large enough for seven carry-on suitcases in our testing; with the rear seats folded, we fit 22 suitcases behind the front row.

Infotainment and Connectivity

All models come with either a 7.0- or 9.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; the larger display offers wireless connectivity for those features, but it’s limited to the top EX-L trim. Also standard on the EX-L is a wireless smartphone charging pad. SiriusXM satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot are also available.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Honda offers a host of driver-assistance technologies on the HR-V, including an adaptive cruise control system and a lane-keeping feature. For more information about the HR-V’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Key safety features include:

• Standard automated emergency braking
• Standard lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist
• Standard adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Honda’s standard warranty package is fairly basic, and rival SUVs such as the Hyundai Kona and the Kia Seltos come with much longer coverage plans. Buyers of the HR-V will find a two-year complimentary maintenance plan, though, and that’s something that the Kia doesn’t offer.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• Complimentary scheduled maintenance is covered for 2 years or 24,000 miles

More Features and Specs