The 2023 Honda HR-V will only be available with a 158-hp 2.0-liter powertrain and not with a hybrid like the (different) global model.
After many teasers, Honda finally revealed the all-new HR-V compact crossover for 2023. The new model arrives with a fresh design, or as Honda says, it’s “pushing the segment forward” in both design and performance. With the 2023 HR-V, Honda wants to attract young and active buyers, whose very niche goes around sporty and stylish. Nonetheless, the crossover also promises an engaging driving experience and spacious cabin.
The 2023 Honda HR-V no longer shares the same platform as the Fit and instead runs on Honda Global Architecture shared with the 11th-gen Civic. As a result, the driving dynamics should be improved significantly, along with better refinement.
However, the engine won’t be the same as on the Civic. The company opted for a 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque. The 1.5-liter turbo from the Civic would’ve provided better performance, but it would’ve also been more expensive. Moreover, Honda didn’t mention a hybrid, although it would’ve made sense here (like in the Corolla Cross Hybrid). Still, it’s evident that the company wanted to keep the price at a minimum, and for the target buyers, the powertrain should be powerful enough.
For better or worse, the 2023 HR-V also gets a CVT that simulates gear shifts through the G-Design programming. We’d have to wait and try it, but CVTs never truly convinced us. Still, convenience is the name of the game here, and these transmissions are very easy to live with. Another useful add-on is the hill-descent technology, which can prove helpful when going downhill on a slippery course.
Did I say slippery course? Yes, you can have the 2023 HR-V with a Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control, which should be good for light off-roading.
The 2023 HR-V has a captivating style with flowing lines, a chiseled front body, and a seamlessly merged roof and side panel. Notably, Honda says it used a technology called “laser brazing” to eliminate the unsightly roof moldings, and we must say that, overall, the crossover looks very streamlined. Moreover, the front features a honeycomb grille and sharp headlights, while the rear has a sleek, sporty look. You can also pair the fresh styling with two new colors: Nordic Forest Pearl and Urban Gray Pearl.
Inside, the 2023 HR-V borrows the general look from the Civic, and that’s not a bad thing. The minimalistic dashboard has a sweet-looking honeycomb pattern in the middle and looks upscale. There is also extra passenger room compared to the previous model, and the cargo area now measures 24.4 cubic feet.
Additionally, the HR-V now comes with “Body Stabilizing Seats” to ensure maximum comfort and a firm seating for the front passengers. Finally, a programmable seven-inch LCD instrument display is standard on all trims.
All three trims come with FWD by default, while AWD is optional. The 2023 Honda HR-V starts low at just $24,895 for the LX in FWD configuration, including the $1,245 destination charge. Meanwhile, the Sport FWD starts at $26,895, and the high-end EX-L FWD starts at $28,695. The AWD drivetrain is a $1,500 option on all trims.
The 2023 Honda HR-V will compete directly with the Toyota Corolla Cross, Subaru Crosstrek, and Mazda CX-30.
Gallery: 2023 Honda HR-V
