2021 Honda HR-V

History/Overview

Honda introduced the HR-V in 2016 as its first entry in the subcompact crossover category. Its most recent refresh was in 2019; the HR-V is unchanged for 2021 as rumours swirl that Honda may reveal a second-generation version for the 2022 model year.

Available Trims

Honda offers the HR-V in LX, Sport, and Touring trim levels. Common to all is a 1.8L four-cylinder engine that comes standard with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). LX can be had with front- or all-wheel drive, while AWD is included in Sport and Touring.

Standard Features

Outside, the HR-V comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, LED brake and daytime running lights, auto on/off headlights, a front wiper de-icer, heated/power-adjustable side mirrors, and power door locks with keyless entry.

Inside, you get automatic A/C, power windows, heated front seats, a six-way manual driver’s seat, a four-speaker stereo, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

HR-V’s standard safety kit comprises forward collision warning with automatic braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.

Sport adds LED fog lights, a sunroof, roof rails, dual-zone climate control, active noise cancellation, variable intermittent wipers, passive keyless entry, a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and a six-speaker sound system.

Touring brings LED headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, navigation, rain-sensing wipers, leather seating, a leather-trimmed shifter, and satellite radio.

Fuel Economy

Honda’s fuel consumption estimates for the HR-V are 8.4/7.0 L/100 km (city/highway) with FWD, and 8.8/7.5 L/100 km with AWD.

Competition

The Honda HR-V competes in a segment whose popularity shows no signs of slowing. If you’re shopping in this class, your other options from Japanese brands include the Mazda CX-3 and CX-30, Nissan’s Qashqai, the Subaru Crosstrek, the Mitsubishi RVR, and the Toyota C-HR.

If you prefer a domestic-made vehicle, consider the Chevrolet Trailblazer, the Ford EcoSport or the Jeep Renegade.

South Korea’s options are the Hyundai Kona and the Kia Seltos.

Europe’s only contribution to this segment is the Fiat 500X.

If you’re shopping at the top end of the HR-V range, you might also consider entry-level versions of upscale compact utilities. Among your options there are the Mini Countryman and the Buick Encore GX.

If you’re on a tighter budget, the Hyundai Venue and Nissan Kicks represent the true entry point to this class, with their smaller engines and front-wheel-only drivetrains.