Overall Rating
Updated on: July 21, 2020
Automotive Journalist
The 2020 Honda HR-V hops the awkward part of the SUV equation. It’s a lively, saucy little crossover with available all-wheel drive and a rear seat that flips and folds to please owners like a Pomski begging for treats. Although its four-cylinder powertrain is the inverse of quick and its ride can be severe on uneven surfaces, the HR-V delivers outstanding fuel economy and is easy to manage in traffic. Its interior has restrained styling but the reliable build quality and a handful of beneficial amenities. Although the 2020 HR-V isn't as ostentatious or fun to drive as options such as the Mazda CX-3 and Hyundai Kona, it offers unique practicality and versatility.
See detailed review »Expansive cargo room
Great fuel economy
Spacious second-row legroom
Weak, unrefined power train
Few standard features
Some confusing infotainment menus
There are no major changes for 2020 Honda HR-V
$20820
4dr SUV
5
front wheel drive
110
141 hp @ 6500 rpm
127 lbs.-ft. @ 4300 rpm
1-speed cvt
Independent front strut suspension
Semi-independent rear torsion beam suspension
11.5/11.1
102.8 in.
170.4 in.
69.8 in.
63.2 in.
2906 lbs.
7.3 in.
100.1 cu ft.
58.8 cu ft.
2959
1095
8.6 sec.
16.5
27/29/31 mpg
409.2 mi.
3 yr./ 36000 mi.
5 yr./ 60000 mi.
5 yr. /unlimited
Yes
$20,820 - $22,320
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LX 4dr SUV (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $20,820 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 1-speed cvt | front wheel drive | 5 | |
LX 4dr SUV AWD (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $22,320 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 1-speed cvt | all wheel drive | 5 |
$22,520 - $24,020
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Sport 4dr SUV (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $22,520 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | front wheel drive | 5 | |
Sport 4dr SUV AWD (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $24,020 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | all wheel drive | 5 |
$23,970 - $25,470
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EX 4dr SUV (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $23,970 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | front wheel drive | 5 | |
EX 4dr SUV AWD (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $25,470 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | all wheel drive | 5 |
$25,570 - $27,070
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EX-L 4dr SUV (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $25,570 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | front wheel drive | 5 | |
EX-L 4dr SUV AWD (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $27,070 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | all wheel drive | 5 |
$28,890
Style | Prices | MPG | Engine | Transmission | Drivetrain | Seats | Colors |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Touring 4dr SUV AWD (1.8L 4cyl CVT) | Starting at $28,890 MSRP | (27/29/31) | 141 hp @ 6500 rpm, 1.8 L, Inline 4, regular unleaded | 7-Speed CVT | all wheel drive | 5 |
Vehicle images are guides only and may not reflect the model's exact specifications/features– exact specifications/features should be confirmed with the seller.
Features
Engine And Performance
Fuel Economy
Interior
Exterior
Competition
Final Verdict
7.8
OVERALL RATING
Overall Rating
Honda HRV is one the best offerings in the subcompact SUV segment, primarily due to its perfect middle-ground approach. It is the best jack-of-all-trades, while also being the master of interior space, especially in the rear seats. The performance might not be the best, but for a starting price of $20,520, you can't really complain, can you?
At a starting price of 20 grand, it isn’t too hard on your bank balance too. So, should you go out and splurge money on this little Honda? The competition is fierce in this segment, as every manufacturer wants a piece of the “commuter segment” pie. Does the HRV retain value in the face of competition? Let's move ahead and find out.
8.0/10
Features
7.0/10
Engine and Performance
8.0/10
Fuel Economy
9.0/10
Interior
8.0/10
Exterior
7.0/10
Competition
8.0/10
Final Verdict
The Honda HR-V lets you choose from as many as five variants, prices for which begin at just a little under $21,000. All variants are very well rounded and offer exceptional value for money. While the base LX variants offer features like a multi-angle rearview camera and 5-inch non-touch LCD screens, opting for the top-tier Touring variant will equip your HR-V with power-adjustable seats and a bigger 7-inch touchscreen.
Regardless of the chosen variant, all HR-Vs get a 1.8-litre inline four-cylinder engine that comes mated to a continuously variable transmission also standard across the range. The 1.8-litre engine and CVT work together to send power to either the front wheels or all the wheels of this subcompact crossover.
Model | LX | Sport | EX | EX-L | Touring |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP (CVT) | $20,820 | $22,520 | $23,970 | $25,570 | $28,890 |
Key Features | 141-hp, 16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC Engine | Features from the LX trim as standard and additional features | Features from the Sport trim as standard and additional features | Features from the EX Trim as standard and additional features | Features from the EX-L trim as standard and additional features |
Available Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System | 7-Inch Display Audio Touch-Screen | Standard Honda Sensing Safety Suite and | Leather-Trimmed Seats | Standard Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control System | |
5-Inch Color LCD Screen with | Apple CarPlay and | Honda LaneWatch | Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel and Shift Knob | Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System | |
USB Audio Interface and Bluetooth Audio Streaming | Android Auto | 17-inch Unique Silver-Painted Alloy Wheels | Automatic-Dimming Rearview Mirror | Driver's Seat with 8-Way Power Adjustment | |
17-Inch Silver-Painted Alloy Wheels | Sport-Exclusive 18-Inch Alloy Wheels | HondaLink Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock | 180-Watt Audio System with 6 Speakers and Chrome Speaker Rings | HomeLink Remote System | |
60/40 Split 2nd-Row Magic Seat | Sport Mode with Dual-Mode Paddle Shifters and Sport Pedals (Exclusive to Sport Trim) | One-Touch Power Moonroof with Tilt Feature | Body-Colored Underbody Spoilers | ||
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines | Body-Colored Rear Roofline Spoiler with | Heated Front Seats and Push Button Start | LED Headlights with Auto-On/Off and LED Fog Lights | ||
Halogen Projector-Beam Headlights with LED Taillights | Gloss-Black Underbody Spoilers and | ||||
Roof Rails | |||||
Fog Lights |
We recommend:
We would suggest you go with the EX variant because you get more creature comforts at a little price hike.
The Honda HR-V derives power from a 1.8-litre inline four-cylinder engine with Honda’s i-VTEC feature. This engine puts out 141 hp and 127 lb.-ft. torque, which might not seem like a lot but the i-VTEC helps with a punchier performance at higher revs.
Power from the engine can be manipulated to the front wheels of this Honda as standard, while an all-wheel-drive unit is optional across the range. Helping the engine in effortlessly channelling power to the wheels is a continuously variable automatic transmission.
Models |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Nissan Rogue Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$20,820 |
$21,295 |
$23,240 |
$22,145 |
Engine |
1.8 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Inline-4 |
2.0 Liter Horizontal-4 |
Transmission |
2-speed CVT w/OD |
2-speed CVT w/OD and auto-manual |
2-speed CVT w/OD and auto-manual |
6-speed manual w/OD |
Horsepower |
141 hp @6500 rpm |
144 hp @ 6100 rpm |
141 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
152 hp @ 6,000 rpm |
Torque |
127 lb. ft. @ 4,300 rpm |
139 lb. ft. @ 3,900 rpm |
147 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 rpm |
145 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm |
While most other subcompact SUVs make do with a 2.0-litre inline-four, the HR-V gets a smaller 1.8-litre engine. Though at 152 hp the 2.0-litre inline-four of the Subaru Crosstrek is the most powerful.
The Honda HR-V is no V8 powered SUV. In fact, it is powered by a humble 1.8-litre engine dynamic enough to make this subcompact capable enough of offering immense practicality but not so much performance. However, the HR-V is no slug.
Yes, the CVT favours efficiency over extravagance, and yes the HR-V takes a while to pick up speed but it surely does, eventually. Moving past the 4000 rpm engages the i-VTEC after which the HR-V starts to feel adequately lively. Though the CVT unit is noisy and tends to get annoying over longer commutes.
Model |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Nissan Rogue Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
0-60 MPH |
9.3 sec |
11.0 sec |
9.9 sec |
9.0 sec |
Quarter Mile |
16.8 sec |
18.4 sec |
17.5 sec |
16.8 sec |
Engine |
1.8L I-4 |
2.0L I-4 |
2.0L I-4 |
2.0L H-4 |
Emission (Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/yr) |
5.9 |
6.0 |
6.3 |
7.1 |
Despite having the smallest engine that also makes the least power and torque, the Honda HR-V is the quickest to the 60 mph mark. A lot of it results from the fact that the HR-V is the lightest subcompact SUV in this lineup.
The braking seems very competent when contrasted with the other rivals. The HR-V has good braking and inspires confidence in you.
Model |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Nissan Rogue Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
Brake front (in.) |
11.5 |
11.8 |
11.7 |
11.6 |
Brake Rear (in.) |
11.1 |
11.1 |
11.5 |
10.8 |
Curb Weight (lbs.) |
2906 |
3300 |
3261 |
3117 |
60-0 MPH (ft.) |
125 |
N/A |
115 |
N/A |
The Honda HR-V is based on the Fit hatchback so it carries over driving dynamics that are very similar to it. While the lightly weighted steering wheel and standard suspension make the HR-V remain compliant over most roads, its smaller size means manoeuvring it in city traffic is relatively easy but don’t expect it to soak up harsh bumps.
The HR-V lacks some engine power but it is great for urban commuters who seek above-average fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive variant has a slightly lesser fuel economy.
Model |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Nissan Rogue Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (city) |
28 |
27 |
25 |
22 |
MPG (highway) |
34 |
31 |
32 |
29 |
MPG (combined) |
30 |
29 |
28 |
25 |
Fuel tank capacity (gallons) |
13.2 |
13.2 |
14.5 |
16.6 |
Range (city/highway) (miles) |
370/449 |
356/409 |
363/464 |
365/481 |
The jewel of the whole deal is the level of comfort you get inside. It is very copious and has got more legroom than any other car in this segment. You will be amazed by looking at a different type of shapes and sizes that can fit inside a Honda HR-V. The headroom in the rear may get affected because of the sloping roofline.
Model |
Honda HR-V |
Toyota C-HR |
Nissan Rogue Sport |
Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
Passenger Capacity |
5 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.) |
39.5/56.8/41.2 |
38.1/49.0/43.5 |
39.6/56.6/42.8 |
39.8/56.7/43.1 |
Second (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in.) |
38.3/54.5/39.3 |
38.3/52.5/31.7 |
38.3/55.7/33.4 |
38.0/55.6/36.5 |
HR-V’s exterior styling will remind you of the Honda Fit as both of these cars share the same platform. HR-V gets sloping roofline and curved side contours that enhances the sporty look of the crossover. On the other hand, the EX and EX-L Navi trims feature tilting and sliding sunroof over the front seat. The practical add-ons offered by Honda include a rooftop bike carrier and roof-rack crossbars.
Neither too much, nor too less, the dimensions are just typical of the segment to which the 2020 Honda HR-V SUV belongs. The ride boasts a total curb weight of 2888 lbs. It is, therefore, heavier than the Subaru Crosstrek and the Nissan Rogue but lighter than the Toyota CH-R.
Model | HR-V LX | Toyota CH-R | Nissan Rogue Sport | Subaru Crosstrek |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb weight(lbs) | 2888 | 3300 | 2805 | 2809 |
Length(in) | 169.1 | 171.2 | 167.20 | 168.3 |
Width(in) | 69.8 | 60.6 | 69.90 | 60 |
Height(in) | 63.2 | 61.6 | 66.1 | 60.7 |
Ground clearance(in) | N/A | 5.9 | 6.2 | 6.2 |
Wheelbase(in) | 102.8 | 103.9 | 100.6 | 101.2 |
Track width(in) F/R | 60.4/60.6 | 60.6/60.6 | 60.6/60.6 | 60/59.9 |
This is apparent by the sweeping rear roof pillar as well as the embedded rear door handles. Main exterior features boasted by the 2020 Honda HR-V SUV include:
Even the most attentive of drivers can miss things. That's why Honda offers an array of safety and driver-assistive technologies designed to assist and help protect you and your passengers. You get the following safety tech :
With an efficient powertrain together with spacious interior and large boot space, the HR-V is otherwise a tad similar to the Chevrolet Trax. But driving dynamics are better in the Japanese SUV and so are the features available in the base model. Priced similarly, the competition is stiff, however, due to Honda’s practicality, it sweeps the Chevy away.
Both these cars are offered by two of the biggest Japanese Auto giants, and both these cars are the finest in the segment. Toyota, however, has a very peculiar exterior design, one which is highly subjective. If you like the looks of the CHR, then you can go for it. The Honda would still be our pick though.
Another Japanese car shootout, both these cars are neck to neck in all the significant criteria, such as price, power output, and even fuel efficiency. The Mazda is a better performer though, while the Honda has an unmatched amount of space in the cabin. While the CX3 is unmistakably fun, the HRV is too. Overall, the HR-V is a better all-rounder here.
Save for the performance, the CR-V aces all the necessary criteria for buyers of these cars. You can easily fit in 5 adults in relative comfort, and arguably better than you can in some premium sedans. It also has a better road presence than a sedan, along with better visibility as well. The final verdict is a no-brainer; go buy!
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