The smaller subcompact crossover is a very competitive market and Honda needed to redo the HR-V to keep up with newer models. For 2023, the redesigned Honda HR-V has sharp new styling that will catch your eye when compared to the last model. The New HR-V is bigger than before, however this is still not a very large vehicle.
The HR-V EX-L sports handsome 17-inch wheels. The bigger size pays dividends inside the 2023 HR-V with more space for front and rear seat passengers. Those in the rear seats will welcome improved legroom and a bit more headroom than before. It is easier to get in and out thanks to doors that open wide enough to allow for easy entry and exit.
This is a rare ride where I prefer the seat comfort of the rear seats compared to the front seats. The leather-covered, heated front seats are short on padding on the seat bottom and don’t offer much lumbar support either. The touch screen on the dashboard is easy to use and works quickly when responding to touch the first time.
Hop behind the wheel of the 2023 Honda HR-V and the little crossover provides a nice ride with decent handling for this class of vehicles. I found it to be a competent commuter car that is easy-to-drive with good visibility and simple to park even in tighter spaces. The retuned four-cylinder engine has more power than before. However, the HR-V is no quick ride. The relaxed acceleration is adequate at best. Luckily, it returns good MPG on the highway.
Cost: $27,900 base price $31,150; as tested
MPG: 25 MPG City; 30 MPG Highway. I managed 27 MPG in 132 miles of mixed driving.
Options: $1,500 AWD; $455 Nordic Forest Pearl; $1,295 destination & handling
Safety: Blind spot information system; rear cross traffic monitor; front and rear parking sensors; collision mitigation braking system; road departure mitigation; lane keeping assist system; pedestrian detection; traffic; multi-angle rearview camera; front and rear parking sensors; traffic jam assist; adaptive cruise control with low speed follow.
Things to know: The redesigned HR-V is bigger inside with improved technology and a pleasant ride.
Pros:
- An improved interior that is more in-line with other smaller compact crossovers
- Handles well for a little crossover
- More space inside than before
Cons:
- No rear seat vents for improved heating and cooling
- Slow acceleration from the only engine available
- Front seats aren’t very comfortable
