In April, Honda unveiled the initial images and specifications for the 2023 Honda HR-V SUV, providing us with all the important details.
Unlike its predecessor, which was based on the Honda Fit platform, the 2023 HR-V now shares the same platform as the Civic. This change not only makes it larger but also gives it a more mature and refined appearance. Along with the new platform, the latest model boasts increased power under the hood and an overhauled interior with enhanced technological features.
The 2023 HR-V is significantly larger, being 9.4 inches longer, 2.6 inches wider, and having a wheelbase extended by 1.7 inches compared to its predecessor. To put it into perspective, the HR-V now matches the length of the Civic hatchback. The exterior design looks cleaner than the previous model, featuring smoother lines that give it a more sculpted appearance. For those seeking a sportier look, the Sport trim level offers a more aggressive grille, a gloss-black rear spoiler, and a chrome exhaust finisher. The HR-V Sport also includes special gloss Berlina Black 18-inch split 5-spoke wheels.
The extensively upgraded interior mirrors the Civic with its honeycomb accent on the dashboard and improved tech features. The driver’s area boasts a new 7-inch LCD display alongside an analog speedometer. The central dashboard includes a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The EX-L trim level comes with a larger 9-inch touchscreen featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a wireless charging pad, and an upgraded eight-speaker audio system.
With the increased dimensions, the new HR-V offers a noticeably more spacious interior. There is 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 55.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The traditional Magic Seat folding rear seat from the previous model has been replaced with more comfortable rear seats, according to Honda.
Underneath, significant changes have been made. Honda states that the new HR-V is built on a “significantly stronger structure,” with a new independent suspension at the rear. The 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, generating 158 horsepower and 138 lb.-ft. of torque replaces the previous 1.8-liter engine. The engine is paired with a CVT, and all-wheel drive is optional, with the AWD system tweaked to provide more power to the rear wheels as needed. A new Hill Descent Control system has been added to facilitate traversing slippery slopes.
In addition to the Eco and Normal driving modes, the HR-V now features a new Snow mode, which adjusts drive ratios and throttle mapping for safe travel on snowy roads.
The front-wheel-drive HR-V achieves a fuel efficiency rating of 26 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined, while the all-wheel-drive variant is rated at 25/30/27 mpg.
When it comes to safety, the HR-V comes equipped with the latest Honda Sensing suite of driver assistance technologies as standard. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, Traffic Jam Assist, and Traffic Sign Recognition. The EX-L trim level adds front and rear parking sensors, while blind-spot monitoring is available on the Sport and EX-L trims. Front occupant knee and rear-passenger side impact airbags are also standard.
The 2023 Honda HR-V will be available in three trim levels: LX, Sport, and EX-L, with prices starting at $24,895, including destination charges. The EX-L AWD variant’s starting price is $30,195. It is now available for purchase.
Image Source: otomobil / Shutterstock