A new generation for the Honda HR-V begins with the 2023 model year. This new version of the subcompact crossover SUV gives us a lot more to admire.
If you thought the smallest and most affordable SUV in the market wasn’t keeping up, it was only lying in wake; waiting for its time to pounce into the spotlight. That time is now, and the new HR-V delivers what we want in a crossover that’s just the right size. Let’s take a look at some of what this new generation brings to the market.
Its Easier to Shop for this Honda SUV
We see fewer trims offered for the 2023 model, giving us an easier way to pick out the right one to drive. There are now three trims offered, LX, Sport, and EX-L. You’ll still need to decide between AWD and FWD for the configuration you want to enjoy. The base price has increased by a little more than $1,000, which is reasonable considering the rest of the automotive market and how insane some of the prices have become.
Enjoy a Little More Power in the HR-V
The 2023 version of the Honda HR-V has a larger engine and a little more power, giving you more juice when you need to pass on the highway. The new power plant is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine delivering 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. This is an increase of 17 horsepower and 11 lb-ft of torque. A CVT still delivers power to the wheels to give you a smooth drive. Fuel mileage for the 2023 model reaches 26 city/32 hwy mpg, which is less than the outgoing model offered.
Better Driving Dynamics for Your Pleasure
The latest version of the HR-V shares a platform with the Honda Civic, making it more rigid and tossable on the road. The torsion-beam suspension is gone, and a new independent rear layout takes its place. This gives you a better ride quality and brings sporty driving characteristics to this little SUV. The front suspension brings the MacPherson struts that were part of the outgoing model, and the wheelbase is longer than before by 1.7 inches. If the HR-V feels wider, it is. the track is two inches wider in the front and 2.5 inches wider in the rear.
You’ll Recognize the Cabin Area
If the interior area of the Honda HR-V looks familiar, that’s because it comes right from the Civic to this SUV. Why mess with a good thing? Honda knows the formula for success is in the Civic and the impressive layout of the cabin. You’ll enjoy the black theme, the impressive technology, and the comfort offered when you get behind the wheel. Will this be the SUV you love to drive?
The New Shape of this Honda SUV Leaves a Little to be Desired
Subcompact crossover SUVs are often touted for their design risks, and the sharp lines offered. The new HR-V doesn’t take as many chances as it did before. The new body shape appears to be more of a small CR-V rather than offering its own personality. This little SUV isn’t ugly at all, but it certainly could be a little more eye-catching. Still, the wheels are attractive, and the light elements are pretty cool.
The Safety You Expect to See
This is a Honda, after all, and that means the HR-V should have plenty of safety features for you to feel secure during the drive. The latest version of Honda Sensing is part of the package, giving you more tech to keep you safe. This impressive little Honda SUV has Traffic Jam Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition to give you a bit more of what you want. For the first time, you can enjoy the benefits of blind-spot monitoring in the HR-V, which is a welcome addition to any vehicle.
No More Magic Seat
The Magic Seat used to be a favorite feature of some of the small Honda vehicles, but now it’s gone. The rear seats don’t fold up against the front ones, which was the case for the Magic Seat; now they fold flat into the floor. This offers up to 55.1 cubic feet of cargo room in one of the smallest SUVs in the market. If you need to keep the rear seats upright, you’ll still have 24.4 cubic feet of space for all your gear.
HondaLink is Standard for Every HR-V Model
No matter which trim of the Honda HR-V you buy, you’ll have access to HondaLink. This is an app that allows you to have some information and controls using your smartphone. One such feature is stolen vehicle location, which can help get your HR-V back to you. Other items include geofencing, automatic collision notification, and service appointments. You won’t pay extra for this feature; it’s a standard item you get when you buy the HR-V.
Walk Away With Confidence
Have you ever walked away from your vehicle wondering if you locked the doors? It can be annoying to go back within range of your key fob to lock them. The HR-V gives you Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock on the higher two trims. This feature allows you to walk away from the vehicle and know the doors will lock. You’ll be glad to have this item when you want a bit of peace of mind that your Honda SUV is secure in the parking lot.
Will You Drive the New Honda HR-V?
The 2023 model year marks the new generation for the Honda HR-V, giving us an upgraded vehicle with more power, performance, cabin space, and features. If you’re looking for a subcompact crossover SUV that can handle your commute, give you the drive you want, and is affordable, this is the one you want to drive. Head over to your nearby Honda dealer and take a test drive today. You’ll be glad you got behind the wheel when you feel how much zip and fun is built into the drive of the new HR-V.
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