Difference Between Honda HR-V and CR-V

The Honda HR-V and CR-V are two popular compact SUV models from Honda. While they may seem quite similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two that buyers should consider. This blog post will compare and contrast the HR-V and CR-V across various factors like price, size, performance, features, and more.

The Honda HR-V made its debut in 2015 as an all-new model in Honda’s lineup. The CR-V on the other hand has been around since the mid-1990s and is now in its 5th generation. Despite their differing timelines, both models aim to deliver practicality, efficiency, and Honda’s renowned driving dynamics in a compact SUV package.

1. Size: The CR-V is larger than the HR-V, but the difference is not as significant as it used to be. The second-generation HR-V, introduced in 2023, has grown in size. However, the CR-V is still bigger, measuring five inches longer, 1.1 inches wider, and 3.1 inches taller than the HR-V. This translates to more interior space in the CR-V, with seven cubic feet more passenger volume and additional legroom for rear-seat passengers.
2. Cargo Space: The CR-V offers more cargo space compared to the HR-V. With the rear seats up, the CR-V provides 39 cubic feet of cargo space, while the HR-V offers 25 cubic feet. Folding down the rear seats in the CR-V increases the cargo capacity to 77 cubic feet, whereas the HR-V can accommodate up to 55 cubic feet.
3. Engines and Fuel Economy: The HR-V comes with a single engine option: a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 158 horsepower. On the other hand, the CR-V offers a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four engine with 190 horsepower as its standard option¹. Additionally, the CR-V also has an optional hybrid powertrain that provides improved fuel efficiency compared to its standard gasoline engine.

Price

The Honda HR-V starts at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of around $21,000. The larger CR-V begins in the high $20,000 range and tops out around $35,000 for fully loaded versions.

On average, expect to pay $3,000-$5,000 more for a comparably equipped CR-V over the entry-level HR-V. Financing and lease offers may help bridge this gap, but the HR-V maintains an advantage if budget is a primary concern.

Size and Capacity

Being the smaller vehicle, the Honda HR-V offers less passenger and cargo space versus the CR-V. Here’s how they compare:

• Passenger capacity: 5 seats (HR-V), 5 seats (CR-V)
• Cargo space behind rear seats: 24.3 cu ft (HR-V), 39.2 cu ft (CR-V)
• Total cargo space with rear seats folded: 58.8 cu ft (HR-V), 75.8 cu ft (CR-V)

The CR-V’s larger size translates to more generous headroom and legroom, especially for rear seat passengers. It can also swallow more cargo easily. The HR-V isn’t cramped by any means, but families with lots of gear should gravitate toward the CR-V.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Both SUVs provide peppy acceleration and composed handling. However, there are some mechanical differences:

• HR-V: 141 horsepower 1.8L 4-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, 28-31 mpg combined EPA fuel economy
• CR-V: 190 horsepower 1.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive, 27-32 mpg combined EPA fuel economy

The CR-V offers more horsepower while maintaining similar real-world fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive models are slightly less efficient. Overall, drivers will be happy with either vehicle’s blend of power and economy. But the CR-V’s extra punch makes it feel quicker.

Interior Design and Technology

Being a newer model, the HR-V features a fresher interior design than the CR-V. Highlights include:

• Contemporary gauge cluster and center stack design
• Available leather trim and contrast stitching
• Heated front seats on EX and higher trims

The CR-V also offers upscale options like leather and dual-zone climate control. However, even base models come well-equipped with features like:

• 5-inch central screen display
• Bluetooth phone connectivity
• Rearview camera

Higher trims of both SUVs enable creature comforts like a sunroof, navigation system, premium audio, and more. There are no clear winners or losers when it comes to interior design and amenities. Personal preference in styling and priorities for specific features will determine which model suits you best.

Safety

The Honda HR-V and CR-V both perform well in crash testing and offer excellent occupant protection. Key safety features include:

HR-V

• Front, side, and side curtain airbags
• Anti-lock brakes
• Stability/traction control
• Hill start assist
• Rearview camera

CR-V

• Front, side, and side curtain airbags
• Collision mitigation braking system
• Lane keeping assist
• Adaptive cruise control
• Blind spot monitoring
• Rear cross traffic alert

Advanced driver aids like lane keeping and adaptive cruise control give the CR-V a slight edge. But both models offer an excellent suite of standard and available safety tech.

Which Model is Right for You?

The Honda HR-V and CR-V have much in common, from their efficient 4-cylinder engines to competitive safety ratings. But the CR-V justifies its higher starting price with advantages in power, interior space, and availability of advanced technology features.

The HR-V is the smarter choice for:

• Shoppers on a tight budget
• Urban commuters who value maneuverability
• Smaller families or couples needing less passenger/cargo space

The CR-V excels for:

• Growing families needing maximum interior room
• Drivers who make frequent highway trips or mountain excursions
• Tech-focused buyers who want cutting edge safety systems

Test drive both models to see how they fit your lifestyle. The HR-V and CR-V each have their own strengths tailored towards different buyers. With Honda’s reputation for reliability, you can’t go wrong picking either of these sensible, efficient SUVs as your next daily driver.