2023 Honda HR-V
This year could be Honda’s year. For 2023, they will introduce at least four new models in their lineup.
One of them is the new HR-V, their smallest vehicle in the lineup. It is no longer as small as it once was. This SUV has grown up and offers a lot more than ever.
Prior to the 2023 model, the HR-V was based off of the subcompact Fit hatchback. It was a charming little vehicle that offered practicality and versatility foremost. However, the smaller SUV market started to shake up because consumers wanted their “small” SUVs larger.
This is where the new 2023 HR-V comes in. It rides on a new platform based on the current Civic. It is clearly larger than the former model, which means more space and practicality.
The HR-V also offers more style. The new exterior starts off with a front fascia flanked by two headlamp units and a sizeable grille. From there, the exterior takes on a mix of upright and curvy shapes, leading to a slightly swept back rear area.
The roof is long and flat for the most part. All four doors open wide to allow for four-to-five passengers inside. The liftgate also has a wide opening that enables for ease of loading.
The top-of-the-line EX-L trim adds a set of 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels mixed with satin chrome and dark gray inserts. It shares a lot of its exterior features across all three trim levels.
Which brings us inside the HR-V. If you have driven the latest generation of the Civic, then you are definitely familiar with the new dashboard layout. The honeycomb trim across the center and passenger vents is a great giveaway to its origins.
Our EX-L tester offered a fully digital instrument cluster that is customizable with the information you need. Attached to the center stack is a seven-inch touchscreen that offers all the infotainment you need. In fact, Honda has practically improved their infotainment interface to be more responsive and easier to use. All controls are logical and good to the touch.
The EX-L’s leather trimmed seats are also good to the touch. There is a mix of firm and soft, with some bolstering for support. Space inside the rear seat area is pretty good and the seats are comfortable.
Cargo space behind the second row starts at 24.4 cubic feet. It appears to be larger, however. By putting down the second row, cargo space is expanded to 55.1 cubic feet. To be honest, we do miss the flexibility of the Magic Seats from the previous generation model.
Underneath the HR-V’s hood is a 158-horsepower 2.0-liter 16-valve four-cylinder engine. In our EX-L tester, it is connected to a continuously variable transmission and the available Real Time All-Wheel Drive system. There are three drive modes available, including Snow mode, along with Hill Descent Control.
Overall, the driveline does a superb job handling traffic. Acceleration is quite good and manages winter conditions quite well in Snow mode. Fuel economy-wise, we averaged 27.8 MPG.
The ride quality was very good. It offered the best balance with good absorption of rougher road surfaces. The HR-V handles quite well with good reflexes on the curves and through evasive maneuvers.
The turning radius is quite good, and wheel feel was pretty decent. We just wished there was a bit more on-center feel within the lanes. There is the Lane Keeping Assist System that will help to keep the HR-V on course. Brake pedal feel is pretty good, as well. We experienced solid stops in normal, panic, and winter situations.
Pricing for the 2023 Honda HR-V starts at $23,800. You have three trim levels available with a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. Our EX-L all-wheel drive tester came with a sticker price of $30,590.
The HR-V may have grown in size, but does it match up with an increased set of competitors? Consumers compare this new Honda to the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Toyota Corolla Cross, Nissan Rogue Sport, Mazda CX-30, Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, Chevrolet TrailBlazer, Jeep Compass, Ford Bronco Sport, Subaru Crosstrek, and Volkswagen Taos.
If you are looking for a small-ish crossover/SUV, Honda has a good choice that stands out in a crowd. The HR-V is definitely one vehicle worth looking at.
Story Credits: CarSoup Editors
