2019 Honda HR-V

Mar 9, 2025, 6:48pm ET

Based on the same global platform as Honda's Fit, the HR-V is the Japanese automaker's entry into the mini-CUV market. The HR-V is targeted at buyers who need a small, efficient footprint but desire the conveniences and practicality offered by a small crossover configuration, including extra ground clearance and the availability of all-wheel drive.

Recent changes

For the latest model year, the HR-V gains Sport and Touring trim levels, and a new infotainment system with a physical volume knob.

Family resemblance

Outside, the HR-V borrows styling cues from Hondas above and below it. The greenhouse is a blend of the Fit and CR-V's, with a hatchback-like taper to the rear. Up front, the grille and front bumper designs borrow heavily from the CR-Z and the Fit, emphasizing the HR-V's compact role in the Honda showroom.

Frugal four-cylinder

Powering Honda's tiny 'ute is a 1.8L i-VTEC four-cylinder engine. Producing 138 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 4,300 rpm, the four delivers an excellent blend of fuel economy and reliable performance. Front-wheel drive and a continously variable transmission come standard, and Honda's Real-Time AWD system is offered at an extra cost.

Fuel economy checks in at 28 mpg city, 35 highway and 31 combined. All-wheel drive lowers those figures to 27 mpg city, 32 highway and 29 combined.

Inside

The HR-V's relationship to the Fit pays off in its flexible and practical interior. Honda's patented "Magic Seat” configuration carries over, giving HR-V buyers versatile passenger and cargo configurations depending on their immediate needs. The rear seats fold flat to expand the hatch area for large parcels, and the seat bottoms also fold up and out of the way for tall/wide cargo that needs to reside behind the driver. The front passenger seat also folds back nearly flat to accommodate long objects. The HR-V's flexible interior gives it cargo and passenger volume which rivals that of some competitors' larger CUVs.

The HR-V looks to its big brother for its floating center console, which offers additional storage and power/USB access.

Features and options

Honda offers the HR-V in five trim levels called LX, Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring, respectively.

Standard equipment on LX models includes power windows, power mirrors and door door/tailgate locks, an electronic parking brake, a rearview camera, aluminum wheels, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity and Pandora radio. Buyers who want more tech and comfort features, including a 7-inch touchscreen interface, LaneWatch, push-button start, paddle shifters, satellite/HD radio, heated seats, navigation, leather seating surfaces or a sunroof will have to spring for a higher trim.

Honda Safety

Standard safety features include Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with Traction Control; an Expanded View Driver's Mirror; a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags, driver and front passenger SmartVent side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions; and Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).

Key competitors

The blossoming mini-CUV class offers only a handful of direct competitors to the HR-V, but that will change soon. Jeep's Renegade and the Mazda CX-3 compete on size and cost, while Mini's Cooper Countryman and Fiat's 500L offer a European spin on the segment. In terms of size and practicality, the Kia Soul is also an excellent option for cross-shoppers. For those who want a little more space, the Subaru XV Crosstrek is another excellent choice.