The 2023 Honda HR-V: How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

The subcompact SUV segment is more crowded than ever, with almost every major automaker offering a model to compete for buyers looking for a small, fuel-efficient crossover. One of the newest entries in this segment is the redesigned 2023 Honda HR-V. With its fresh styling and upgraded interior, the new HR-V aims to stand out against rivals like the Hyundai Kona, Kia Soul, Mazda CX-30 and Nissan Kicks.

In this post, we’ll see how the 2023 Honda HR-V measures up against its key competitors on factors like pricing, performance, interior space, tech features and more. Read on to find out if the new HR-V has what it takes to be a top pick in the increasingly competitive subcompact SUV market.

Pricing and Value

The 2023 Honda HR-V starts at an MSRP of $23,800, making it one of the more affordable options in the segment. The top EX-L trim tops out around $28,000.

By comparison, the Hyundai Kona starts lower at $21,990, while the Kia Soul is in the same ballpark as the HR-V. The Mazda CX-30 and Nissan Kicks come in pricier, at $23,500 and $20,685 respectively for their base models.

When looking at standard equipment and overall value, the HR-V does well. Even the base LX trim comes reasonably well-equipped with features like:

• 7-inch touchscreen display
• Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Automatic high beams

Higher trims add desirable upgrades like a larger touchscreen, leather seats, sunroof and more. Overall, the HR-V provides a strong value proposition in its segment.

Performance and Fuel Economy

The 2023 HR-V gets a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Fuel economy is a highlight for the new model, with ratings of 28 mpg city/34 highway/30 combined for front-wheel-drive models or 27/32/29 mpg for AWD versions. These numbers match or beat most rivals except the Kona, which achieves up to 33 combined mpg.

In terms of acceleration, the HR-V is about average for the segment. The CX-30 is quicker, while the Kicks and Base Soul are slower. Overall power and performance should be adequate for most buyers in this segment.

Interior Space and Cargo Capacity

The magic of the HR-V is its spacious interior, considering its compact exterior dimensions. Passenger space is generous, with rear seat legroom measuring 37.3 inches. Headroom is also plentiful front and back.

Cargo capacity is a big selling point. With the rear seats up, there is 27.7 cubic feet of cargo room. With the rear seats folded, that expands to a class-leading 57.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Only the boxy Kia Soul offers more cargo room, with 62.8 cubic feet.

Overall, the HR-V beats out rivals handily when it comes to packing in passengers and cargo efficiently. Families will appreciate its flexible, user-friendly interior.

Tech and Safety Features

Subcompact SUV shoppers expect the latest tech and safety gear even in affordable models. Here’s a quick rundown of some notable features available on the 2023 Honda HR-V:

• 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Qi wireless charging
• USB ports for both rows
• 6-speaker audio system
• Satellite radio capability
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• Remote engine start
• Automatic high beams
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross traffic alert
• Lane keeping assist
• Lane departure warning
• Forward collision warning
• Automatic emergency braking

The HR-V covers all the expected tech and safety essentials for this segment. Higher trims offer optional upgrades like a larger touchscreen, wireless charging and a premium audio system to enhance the ownership experience.

Ride Quality and Handling

While not designed as a sporty crossover, reviews indicate the 2023 Honda HR-V provides solid ride quality and handling for a subcompact SUV. It smooths out bumps and imperfections well, providing a comfortable, compliant ride.

Body roll is minimal thanks to a revised suspension and chassis. The electric power steering provides decent feedback. The HR-V feels stable and secure on the highway. Fuel-efficient tires do limit grip, so enthusiasts will want to opt for grippier all-season or performance tire upgrades.

Overall, the HR-V strikes a good balance between comfort and composure, meeting the needs of most shoppers in this segment. It may not be as nimble as the Mazda CX-30, but it handles at least as well as competitors like the Hyundai Kona or Kia Soul.

The Verdict

With its pleasant road manners, spacious and flexible interior and strong value, the 2023 Honda HR-V makes a compelling case in the subcompact SUV segment. For shoppers seeking great gas mileage, generous cargo room and attractive pricing, the HR-V checks a lot of boxes.

While rivals like the CX-30 are flashier and the Kona gets better fuel economy, the well-rounded HR-V combines practicality, efficiency and quality in a way that appeals to many buyers. Its balance of virtues makes the HR-V stand out as a top pick in its crowded segment.