Honda has given its 2023 HR-V a complete remodeling, the better to contest the onslaught of desirable and stylish small SUVs that have flooded the market.
No surprise then that the new HR-V looks completely different from the outgoing model. The new HR-V shares its platform with the Civic and uses an obviously aspirated 2.0-liter inline-4 from Honda's compact sedan. Moved out, sadly, is the outgoing model's trick 2nd-row Magic Seat, which spun down to make the HR-V one of the most flexible cargo-friendly small SUVs. But the new edition is wider and longer, which Honda claims benefits inner space.
Autonomous rear suspension replaces the old model's torsion beam setup, a change that potentially improves ride and handling. The new model also obtains updated infotainment features and more modern driver-assist technology.
Honda's smallest crossover has been completely reshaped for the 2023 model year and drives on sale this summer.
Performance
In Europe, the HR-V is powered by a hybrid powertrain rented from the Insight and Accord but the U.S. variant comes with a traditional gasoline 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that's good for 158 HP. If that sounds conversant, it's because the same engine helps as the base powertrain in the Civic.
The HR-V managed a (9.4) second launch to 60 (mph) during our acceleration testing. That's over a full second slower than the more dominant non-turbo Mazda CX-30 and 2/10 slower than the 147-HP Hyundai Kona.
In the HR-V, the 2.0-liter 4-cylinders feels sluggish and gutless, but since the SUV parts its platform with the Civic, we could see a 180HP turbocharged 1.5-liter or a hybrid powertrain join the lineup down the road. For now, front wheel-drive and a nonstop variable automatic transmission (CVT) are the standard arrangement but all-wheel drive is available as an option on all trims.
The outgoing HR-V didn't bring the quiet litheness we expect of Hondas, but this new generation modifies that with a chassis inherited from the spry Civic.
Interior & Comfort
The HR-V accepts a more modern interior design inspired by the reshaped Civic' it's both classic and attractive. The front seats are comfortable and supportive even though they provide a wide range of modifications. The outgoing model offered Honda's novel 2nd-row Magic Seat, which allows the rear bench to flip and fold to create a particularly low, flat floor. That feature helped the HR-V lead the section in cargo capacity despite its little size.
Unfortunately, the new HR-V has that feature, Honda claims that the new model's cargo bay is larger and that lift-over height has been reduced to help with loading heavy items.
All models come with either a (7.0) or (9.0) inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple-CarPlay and Android Auto, the larger display offers wire free connectivity for those features, but it's limited to the top (EX-L) trim. Also classic on the (EX-L) is a wireless smartphone charging pad. We are also supposed to see features such as SiriusXM satellite-radio, in-dash navigation, and a (Wi-Fi) hotspot, at least as choices.
Fuel Economy
The AWD HR-V gets an EPA estimated (27 MPG) in combined driving (25 city/30 highway), which is just slightly less than many of its closest competition, some of which have more powerful trains.
After driving it on our 115 miles assessment loop, however, we saw an impressive (31.6MPG) under honestly light traffic conditions. We suspect having passengers on board will tax this underpowered engine more than most.
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