2023 Honda HR-V Grows Up and Gets Refined

[@davids1816]

If it's going to be this slow it should be a hybrid and get 40mpg. If it's going to get this mileage, it should have the 1.5 turbo. Even if it cost another 700-1000 dollars it would be worth it when you could make it up a hill without 18 wheelers breathing down your neck. Otherwise, this is a very nice car.

[@christopherprose3881]

I think the only deal-breaker this would be for me is its abysmal 0-60 times. Hopefully they'll come out with a more powerful version later on, something that will get to 60 closer to 7 seconds (or less) would feel safer when dealing with passing or charging up onramps. The styling is handsome but generic but also a step above the older funky design. I'd say the interior is a huge improvement for sure. Sorry they didn't accommodate the rear seat passengers with more features. Air vents and power ports should be standard. Lastly, considering how beautiful it was where you filmed, this had to be a great assignment.

[@christopherprose3881]

@@titaniumspecial4207 I drove a Civic with a CVT and it was actually okay. I hated the CVT in my previous Prius (that I sold as soon as I was able) but this one was just fine, really,. I couldn't believe it myself. I'd take a DSG anyway, but Honda did a decent job with it.

[@Lightsout565x]

0-60 times in some other videos I watched were in the 10-12 second range. It's quite terrible.

[@Wells306]

@@Lightsout565x What elevation were they driving at?

[@Dwiz302]

Test drove yesterday..plenty of get up to merge onto highway. People saying it’s slow must be nascar drivers

[@DeesBees85]

You were really generous with your 0-60 time here. Other measurements put it over 10 seconds.

[@Insanity_Crow]

It's actually really nice looking. Both this and the Corolla Cross need larger engine options though. Those little engines have to work so hard to stay at 70mph! Reminds me of when Jeep stuck a 2 liter in the Patriot.

[@kenc2257]

Nice review! (really pretty surroundings that Honda arranged) [By the way, I like that your "video progress bar" is segmented with chapters and annotated; I actually watch without skipping around, but the segments are useful if I want to check something mentioned in the comments below.]

[@toronado455]

1:27 Kirk Kreifels on the left?

[@bigprocrastinator]

Luxurious Fleet!

[@mark8684]

How did you arrive at 8-8.5 sec 0-60 mph? Did you time it with proper equipment? Other testers have it closer to 10 sec 0-60.

[@germanium1872]

I love the new HR-V. it looks way more refined. I really like the conservative styling. It looks like an Acura MDX from the back.

[@andrewsmactips]

It loses the magic seats because because the fuel tank is under the rear seats, like a Civic. The previous HR-V was based on the Fit which has its fuel tank under the front seats.

[@chrispnw2547]

I get that building the HR-V off the Civic architecture simplifies manufacture, saves money, and is probably better suited for the North American market but the drivetrain should have been upsized accordingly. 4 adults and the luggage in a naturally aspirated engine in high altitudes will not only be a dog but may be dangerously underpowered. The new HR-V is 250 lbs heavier.

[@itsm3th3b33]

It is aspirated. You mean non-forced induction.

[@iamthedutchbro]

I have a '16 HR-V AWD that has less power than the new one. There's plenty of power. Even "slow" cars nowadays are amazing. And I live in Utah with real mountains and elevation.

[@mihan5660]

@@iamthedutchbro your car is over 1.5 seconds quicker 0-60 than the 2023 according to motortrend. The power does not at all ofset the weight of the new hr-v. An extra 1.5-2 seconds is a very long time on an onramp trying to get to highway speed

[@raybird2535]

@@iamthedutchbro I test drove a 2019 hrv and that thingbwas a dog.. slowest car I've ever drove.

[@steeley6123]

it’s weird they didn’t offer a hybrid with that lower fuel economy, maybe with the insight power train.

[@TinLeadHammer]

They have so much space under the trunk floor, so they just might do it later, by removing the spare wheel.

[@chrisdigiuseppe7717]

My gf just bought one of these, it's a really nice small SUV for an outdoorsy type person upgrading from a compact car. I liked everything about it.

[@patrickh9910]

I think the host said 0 to 60 is about 8 to 8.5 sec. The other reviewers say it's about 10.5 to 11 and said it's slow.

[@gvs376]

True. There is no way this thing can reach sixty in less than ten seconds.

[@patrickh9910]

@@gvs376 It's slow and yet, it has worse EPA mileage than Corolla Cross. Some reviews I saw said it has more hp than previous hrv, but they don't say it is heavier than previous hrv.

[@gvs376]

@@patrickh9910 Exactly. I’ve owned a few cars with meager horsepower, and it’s fine as long as the weight is manageable. This car should have nixed the AWD with this engine. But as my dad always says: “They didn’t ask me”.

[@idigbebop]

Great styling ( hate black wheels) But Ouch, a tiny 158hp should not come with a penalty of only 27mph average. You would think they could squeeze a bit more. Highway at 30mph ? That’s sad. Even Volkswagen can get you near 40mph with more power in Taos and Tiguan. Thanks, Tom. Always an honest review.

[@ericdolby1622]

No turbo and no direct injection. Bulletproof.

[@Tetsujin-28]

Besides the "electric wave" grille, that's a good looking car.

[@cd9225]

Dark Vader like grille....

[@keithjackson4985]

Can't they do redesigns without every generation getting larger? Not a fan of the front, do like the profile. Would like an HRV with 230hp and adjustable shocks?

[@kristila76]

Agree! Front is awful! Looks like a cartoon car...

[@keithjackson4985]

@@kristila76 like the interior though. Honda's always so user friendly. Like the new Civic interior, exterior looks boring to me.

[@denault3985]

Pleasant looking inside & out...but the power & fuel economy needs improvement!

[@shawnfahey7243]

Thank you! For the very detailed, and nice review. I have the 2023 honda hr-v sport in red and I love it. I do believe that is drives like a slightly raised honda civic.

[@BruceWayne-eh4im]

That engine output combined with abysmal MPG is just disappointing.

[@b1bo840]

@3:00. the “car confection” guys get a cameo in your video but they avoided you in there’s ☹️

[@doziershaw9765]

Big improvements over previous generation. But with price increase at each trim level you will prob be able to get a base new gen CRV for same money as a HRV Sport or EX-L.

[@AR-nz1yh]

I agree to expensive

[@TruthFLA]

I normally agree with you but I would say I love the exterior more than the interior it has a refined look to it especially in these new almost matte looking paint colors they're choosing these days. I really like the general direction of all Hondas are moving they are all starting to look similar to this. This is the same direction the new Acura MDX moved into. this goes a few steps further. I really like the exterior

[@morganlingsweiler9813]

I agree, the side profile and some of the lines look like a mix between a Mercedes GLC and Porsche Cayenne in my opinion.

[@sportsMike87]

Bland styling continues

[@jonathankleinow2073]

Is there a Touring model above the EX-L that provides rear passengers with USB outlets in the center console cutout designed specifically for them? If not, how is that not a feature on the top-end model? Honestly, I like a lot of things about this, but given the price of gas, I want to see this as a hybrid. Rumor has it the Insight is going away, to be replaced with a Civic Hybrid, so I would be shocked if there wasn't also an HR-V Hybrid by 2024 or 2025.

[@jonathankleinow2073]

@@iamthedutchbro Have you tried not waking up and deciding to be an asshole to strangers on the internet?

[@davidlabarge9645]

Currently, EX-L is the top trim level. No Touring available. In ascending order there is LX, Sport and EX-L

[@stephenwinter8892]

Greetings from southern Ontario Canada iam disappointed that the magic seat was discontinued and its not cheaper here actually certain colors only apply for certain trims

[@cbrbird]

If the Bolt/Bolt EUV is a comparable vehicle at a similar purchase price, then it's a no-brainer to go that way. Owners will save thousands in operating costs...

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Just not available with AWD for those that want it

[@americanparser]

Until the batteries catch on fire, that is. Then, not so much.

[@cbrbird]

😅Hope they've fixed that problem! We went with the Model 3 when Chev paused production and we couldn't put our hands on a Bolt...

[@allysonhanks9159]

hello Dave how are you doing 😊

[@kraenk12]

Well but it isn’t.

[@robgindc1]

HRV got refined into looking JUST like the new Escape. That's funny! 🤣

[@kevinframe757]

All of those "hands in the pockets" at the press review 😂

[@landyachtfan79]

I sure wish they'd do a mid-year running change & bring back the Magic Seat. No one might have ever used it, but it's what makes the HR-V the HR-V.

[@hereigoagain5050]

Love it. Great review. Looking forward to electrified versions.

[@IAutoEnthusiast]

HR-V looks good in comparison to the out going model. Great reviews as always.

[@andresmattos7541]

Looks good LOL

[@martinkleinman2522]

Nice car, but I think I'd opt for the CrossTrek in this category.

[@Offensively-normal]

I would agree. This is built in Mexico. The Crosstrek is built in Japan. They have something called quality control there. A novel concept in today's world

[@allysonhanks9159]

hello Martin how are you doing 😊

[@rajatdixit007]

Trying to look around and cross shop, wouldn't the Ford Maverick be a better buy with its hybrid engine for that ~$25k mark?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

If you want a pickup and if you can find one, maybe.

[@TMidnight]

Loving the new HR-V, just feel it could use more power. I bet an HR-V Type R would sell pretty well.

[@alicea5]

If they are gonna take the magic seat away, give us pull down drink holders!!! I love my magic seat in the Fit. I use it often. Now if I want the magic seat I’ll have to find an older model. If the sport isn’t gonna do performance, what’s the point? I wish they give the HRV more power!

[@parsabbaluca21]

Is this the new civic cross?

[@dewservices]

When will the Hybrid AWD model be avialable in the USA? Or will it?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

There's no talk of a hybrid model right now

[@dewservices]

@@DrivenCarReviews I have the current year model Sport and the main reason I got it was my dad is in a wheelchair and the I keep the back seats up. This makes it a breeze to throw the wheel chair into and out of and I dont have to worry about the wheels scuffing up the seats. I will keep this vehicle just because of that. Also, you could throw a full size bike back there if you had to.

[@mattspeer01]

Title says 2020 HR-V. Assume you meant 2023?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Noticed it the moment I posted. Sometimes it takes a long time for the correction to refresh. But thanks.

[@snkr_em]

Where is the LX?

[@drgwnut]

I liked the original version for it's comfort seating and overall usability. But, it was a wind-up car and still is. I will wait for the 4-cyl turbo/awd.

[@ninetwenty]

Great review as usual. Wish you would add the overall length to your reviews. Thanks

[@DrivenCarReviews]

And what would would I talk about? These are plenty long enough now. I'm not about to waste people's time.

[@TinLeadHammer]

@@DrivenCarReviews Length (of the vehicle) not the duration (of the video) ?

[@THEREALTJP]

Lol I see some of my favorite KZbinrs in the crowd

[@Geeksalmonbanana]

I just bought this (2023 honda hrv). sport trim with urban gray. I really like it. The only real bummer is the MPG. With 200 miles it so far and only avg 25. I do have the awd model but damn I was hoping for better

[@patrickh9910]

Don't know why it's not powerful and poor gas mileage. At least the equally slow Corolla Cross has 4 to 5 more miles according to EPA.

[@2Kriss2Kross]

New cars don’t get their projected fuel for a while because their engine components are still getting broken in. Going through the same with my ‘22 Civic.

[@readyplayer2]

There are fewer and fewer quality small vehicles intended for individuals or couples in urban areas. There are a lot of us and it’s frustrating to see Honda give up on this market by discontinuing the Fit and bulking up the HRV. For many of us, bigger is NOT better - we prioritize a small, easy to (parallel) park vehicle with great fuel economy that can get us to work or park on the street near shops, restaurants, bars, etc.; bring things home from the store (the loss of the magic seat will force a lot of buyers to choose delivery for bulky / tall items), and be reliable and cheap to maintain. It’s great that Honda stepped up the interior quality, but not at the cost of growing 9 inches, and the fuel economy is truly miserable in 2022. This should have been a hybrid. When it comes time to replace my Fit, it’s unfortunately unlikely to be a Honda.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I agree. But if a vehicle isn't selling, that tells manufacturers that customers want something else. At the end of the day, they're in the biz to make money. Selling the cars people want are the way they do that.

[@readyplayer2]

@@DrivenCarReviews Are the smaller vehicles not selling, or was Honda not making as much profit on them? Either way, capitalism doesn’t always result in the best results.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

@@readyplayer2 I suspect both. No economic system is perfect.

[@TinLeadHammer]

@@DrivenCarReviews Small car - small margin plus tight CAFE requirements. Large vehicle plus official "truck" label - higher margin and less pressure to make it truly fuel-efficient. No wonder it is no hybrid, its fuel economy / emissions are good enough for Honda. You may want to make a separate video regarding this.

[@THEREALTJP]

Here's how it should've went... LX: 2.0 Sport: 1.5T EX-L: 2.0 Hybrid

[@dorothyann100]

Love my base model 2023 HRV. Actually I love the purity of its exterior design, very European. And it has plenty of power that gets me out in Front. Simply gotta know how to use your accelerator.

[@mullen25]

owners didn't use the "magic seats" in the prior gen? i use mine every day. it's a great way to maximize space.

[@DouginaBoxster]

We LOVE Skamania Lodge! ..but how did you not film on the Bridge of the Gods?!? ;-)

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Because it would be really really hard logistically.

[@DouginaBoxster]

@@DrivenCarReviews I figured...just giving you some guff. Keep up the great work!

[@daviddang82]

Wish there was plug in hybrid

[@N2LADIES55]

The only down side for me is the low MPG but I still plan on buying one if I can purchase one without the 'market adjustment' charged by greedy dealers. I plan on buying one by December.

[@acemacgruber6593]

This is a great crossover, for 2012.

[@sloanNYC]

I wish they still made the Fit, really good MPG and magic seats make it way more versatile than it's size would hint at. With the passenger seat down I could even carry standard 2x4s at 8 feet. They just keep making everything bigger, which I get is what USA customers are buying, it is just frustrating for "smart people like me". LOL. Honestly, I'd rather get a hybrid Maverick than this.

[@Slimecrazy234]

It's a really handsome little SUV, shame no hybrid.

[@tedneanderthal7373]

I wish the new HR-V was a hybrid like the new version sold in the rest of the world.

[@lot2196]

People still miss the Fit as an entry level Honda.

[@gatewaypartners8018]

Tom you wanna do an episode on car quality ratings from JD Power? How is Quality (defined as complaints/100 cars) actually going down!!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I saw that. Not a very visual piece. And I think at the end of the day, most people are loyal to their brands.

[@teehee4112]

got the urban grey should of gone for forest green :(

[@jazzjokesjalopies]

Waiting for the V-10. 😀

[@BrandonG8Man]

0-60 in 8-8.5 seconds? I think you’re being VERY optimistic. Every other review with actual timing gear has gotten 11 seconds at best and that was after multiple runs where it was even slower than that. This is unacceptable in 2022 even for an “affordable” model.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Agreed, hence the graphic. Looking around the times are all over the map. Some are saying 11, CandD estimated around 9. Either way, this is not a fast vehicle.

[@bigprocrastinator]

Call me a cynic but anyone else think Honda limited how much bigger the HRV's interior got given its longer length to avoid cannibalization with the CRV?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

Well... let's wait and see how much the new CR-V grows in size.

[@MrAsh-cw5cq]

I'm sure they are going to make a hybrid version

[@tommihelich2613]

The CR-V is based on the Civic platform so this has to be based on that platform too. I expect the Fit will take over the HR-V’s segment eventually. That’s the way it is in the Japanese automotive culture.

[@jermainec2462]

The fit been discontinued over here in the states so we won't see that take over LOL ...

[@DrivenCarReviews]

The whole "based on XXXX architecture" is a bit misleading in nearly every car. It's not like a top is just plopped on a platform.

[@tommihelich2613]

@@DrivenCarReviews oh come on Tom! They have to start somewhere. And they chose the Civic platform. They can choose to stretch, chop, add or delete but they have to start somewhere.

[@Vanguardkl]

Hankook is ruling the tyre market? The Merc Maybach at 300k has Hankooks standard, and this Honda too.

[@jermainec2462]

Rip to all the sub compacts (sedans) ... It won't be anything affordable anymore after a while

[@bigprocrastinator]

Bring back the Fit!

[@jermainec2462]

@@bigprocrastinator yes would be nice ....

[@Mojo522]

Thanks, Mr. V

[@georgeg.7124]

I think the front end looks terrible. Reminds me of a puffer fish. The gas efficiency is pretty disappointing at 27 combined mpg, although it would have been nice if Tom told us what a front wheel drive received. Update: How is that the more powerful and bigger CRV with AWD get 29 while this gets the 27? Seems like a huge miss my Honda.

[@XerxezsX]

Wait for all the recalls and oil dilution problems then wait until they fix that then buy the fixed versions 👌

[@howlingwolf125y]

Some say its not sporty enough .. or too boring??.. Do you mean Honda should make it more "aggressive and "sport" looking.. You know, lower the roofline, make everything lower, and add small windows..?? Trouble with that is the visibility (for safety) is terrible.. outward visibility would be terrible.. Living with it daily would be terrible.. I lower sporty design would make it much less comfortable, less roomy, less driving enjoyment, less headroom, less safer, etc.. If you ask me it is ok to be boring.. I like a vehicle to sit up higher and more upright.. I think Honda did a pretty good job..

[@gregjones1867]

White floaty things..... Cottonwood maybe?

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I'm a car guy, not a plant guy.

[@gregjones1867]

@@DrivenCarReviews If those things get in your AC coils, you will learn to hate them, lol.

[@clintonroberts5843]

Nope! Give me the Euro-hybrid version. I liked the fit/jazz style.

[@MrDaveaccord]

I have a 2020 HRV Sport trim and this looks better in every way. A more powerful and refined engine and a quality Civic like interior. Well done Honda.

[@MarioDallaRiva]

So the “Q” is for Quincy, then… 🤔 Honda should have supplied you with bundles of TP. C’mon, Honda!!

[@tedunguent156]

They definitely left too much content out of the top trim EX-L. No rear armrest or cupholders or connectivity? Forget it.

[@ruddynordin9215]

The 2022 model hasn't been launched yet in Malaysia and the 2023 model already waiting in the lines? Guess Malaysia will got it in 2030 😂

[@Megatron-sl5us]

The HR-V should've had a turbocharged engine.

[@HumptyDumptyActual]

It looks kinda bland. But it's very reliable 👍

[@citibear57]

What do the letters 'HR-V' spell? BLAND 😝 The front end looks like a Ford and the rear looks like a Hyundai. How much is the 'better styling option' LOL PS: KZbin had the nerve to show me a commercial for the Cadillac Lyric 😢

[@Offensively-normal]

Even though it's a Honda I would be pass on anything built in Mexico. The baby bronco is so poorly made there. Nothing but problems reported from owners. I suspect this will have it's fair share of issues also.

[@elai3147]

previous gen hrv also made in mexico and no major issues with reliability

[@Offensively-normal]

@@elai3147 good point. They must do a better job of managing quality control.

[@elai3147]

@@Offensively-normal have a honda and a stellantis both made in mexico and they are night and day in terms of fit & finish and reliability, one is trouble free and the other is garbage, so yeah it comes down to quality control

[@kraenk12]

Much improved from last gen but why are all those wheels so bad looking?

[@bhmbill]

Honda makes engines for planes as well.

[@nateisright]

Styling and packaging are excellent. Needs more power. Maybe a hybrid drivetrain, but the 1.5T would be nice. I know Honda wants to save the 1.5T for CR-V, but CR-V could get Accord’s 2.0T and 10 speed automatic.

[@gregjones1867]

Design engineers need to be more creative on the nose cones as Grill areas slowly progress into non-existence.

[@noahboy6349]

Looks actually like a Ford Escape.

[@Wellington_srt10]

in other markets like brazil this car is worse and more expensive, in brazil case it's a unobtainable luxury car. y guys aren't not losing anything.

[@long_fellow]

0-60mph more like 15 seconds. Dangerously slow to merge into highways

[@fleuger99]

Great review Tom, as always. Another boring SUV and manufactured in Mexico, I'd pass. Had two vehicles assembled in Mexico and rattles were numerous early on, I'd avoid the lousy build quality so Honda can make more money. Next!

[@DrivenCarReviews]

I doubt Mexico assembly is the reason for rattles. And build quality looked quite good on these.

[@iamdenislara]

I will never forgive Honda for what they did with the CR-V. This should be the CR-V!! Should’ve pick a different name for the current CR-V. What was even the point of making a small SUV name into a bigger SUV.

[@CC-wm1yq]

This car is very overpriced in Canada. You can get a Rav-4 for the same or less depending on trim. It’s not underpowered. We hear this often from reviews because these new EV’s are insane and they’ve become desensitized. The seats are uncomfortable as hell, try the front passenger side, awful . Driver side is ok. The trunk floor cover is like a thin piece of cardboard. Car manufacturers are relying on styrofoam to support trunk Toyota is guilty of this as well. It’s a nice driving car but road noise is bad. A letdown for the price point.

[@americanparser]

"...floor folds flat for breakable things, like mirrors... ask me how I know." Great writing --- relatable and pertinent, with just a bit of whimsy. That's why I subscribe. But I still don't get the appeal of a bigger car with no more interior room. Better ride, maybe? What a forgettable, underwhelming value. HRV, the Apple of compact Crossovers.

[@DrivenCarReviews]

FYI, the vehicle I was using to haul that mirror had a flat floor. The mirror did not break. 7 years of good luck still possible.

[@elliottmanning4116]

Does your fun fact maybe explains why Honda hasn't brought a full EV to market yet? Yes, I'm sure one is coming.

[@NomadByNecessity]

Size wise.. it seems a copy of competitor to the Ford Focus. This definitely obscures things seriously.

[@phileasler5401]

Sorry, needs a plug…but you know it’s Honda, not that ev friendly

[@gvs376]

My food processor has more torque than this Honda. I'll bet it's more comfortable inside as well.

[@pdlynch4330]

Sun?

[@ksorsomeplace]

I wish it would have gained some visual and mechanical excitement. John Q and Jane Q don't seem to have much interest in vehicles with emotions. Each new redesign...Honda keeps toning it down on the design front (witness the Civic, back to careful understatement in design).

[@danhall3450]

Front end reminds me of current Ford Escape -- OK, nothing special.

[@howlingwolf125y]

I don't know about that.. Do you mean Honda should make it more "aggressive and "sport" looking.. You know, lower the roofline, make everything lower, and add small windows..?? Trouble with that is the visibility (for safety) is terrible.. outward visibility would be terrible.. Living with it daily would be terrible.. I lower sporty design would make it much less comfortable, less roomy, less driving enjoyment, less headroom, less safer, etc.. If you ask me it is ok to be boring.. I like a vehicle to sit up higher and more upright.. I think Honda did a pretty good job..

[@ksorsomeplace]

@@danhall3450 I had that impression as well.

[@ksorsomeplace]

@@howlingwolf125y Definitely not more aggressive as in bigger tires, more ground clearance and more of that plain black trim (if that can be referred to as sport). No, add some distinctiveness to the design. More appealing to the eye, better flow. None of which necessarily equate to smaller windows, but better proportions, yes. Some more adventurous and pleasant colors beside the palette they are offering. I'm after something more than just the "basic" look...especially at the prices charged. It would seem to lack power as well. Honda has and can do better in that arena.

[@JunLeido]

Where's your evil twin brother???

[@TinLeadHammer]

Big, ugly, boring, no real instruments, 2-liter with CVT, not even a hybrid. I see no reason to prefer this to, say, RAV-4 Hybrid.

[@alex98053]

158hp is simply atrocious....simply abysmal 0~60 times. Need something this size for my mom and this is not competitive imo..

[@Musashi35140]

It's not about power but torque essentially. 158hp is large enough but you need more torque, need compressor, turbo or electric boost...

[@jp93309]

Love your review but that Honda is a snoozer.

[@elmhurst86]

Congratulations Honda, you have FAILED once again! There must be a whole bunch of engineers suffering from auditory and visual impairment working there. Did you not hear/read the enormous amount of people who screamed bloody murder for the under-powered engine the previous HR-V had?!?! Why did you not add a turbo to this? Hybrid/PHEV?! You took away the magic seat, the left side mirror camera and no USB or vents for the back row but you kept the feeble engine?!?! I hope you sell less of these than you did the previous model. This is pathetic. Everyone else is electrifying their vehicles and you're not even close to catching up. Climate change? Not according to Honda. A million thumbs down!!!

[@iamthedutchbro]

Chill out.