2023 Honda HR-V

Pros: Improved ride and handling; better interior design; more standard tech features

Cons: Lackluster acceleration; so-so EPA fuel mileage numbers for the class

CG Says: For 2023, Honda has completely redesigned the subcompact HR-V, its smallest crossover SUV. Having moved to the same platform as the new Civic, the 2023 Honda HR-V has increased in all-around size. Power is slightly up, coming from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower for all versions, paired with a revised continuously variable transmission. Front- or all-wheel drive are available with all trim levels. A stiffer body structure and new independent rear suspension contribute to improved ride and handling.

The HR-V is available in three trim levels: LX, Sport and EX-L. They are differentiated by subtle appearance changes and a growing roster of standard features as you go up. Highlights include cloth upholstery on LX and Sport with leather on EX-L. The Sport gets you remote start and keyless entry, heated mirrors and front seats, and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter. Moving up to the EX-L gets you a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, and 8-speaker stereo with satellite radio. A 7-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto connectivity is standard, with a 9-inch screen and wireless smartphone integration available on the EX-L. All HR-Vs have the Honda Sensing suite of safety features, which includes collision warning and mitigation, road-departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic high-beam headlights.

The HR-V’s move to the Honda Civic platform nets it bigger dimensions and notably sportier, more-engaging handling. The larger size is noticeable in the interior, especially in rear-seat headroom and legroom. Honda cites a larger cargo area, but the HR-V loses the innovative folding rear-seat arrangement of the outgoing model. While the HR-V shows improvements in most areas, unfortunately the modest increase in power is not commensurate with the increase in size. It’s still a solid, if average, choice in a highly competitive segment.