Not like it used to be! Honda HRV 2023 review (HR-V hybrid test)

The last Honda HR-V wasn't as good as this one. But this one also isn't as good as the last one.

The reason I say that is because the previous version (Vezel in Japan) was a very practical small SUV. It had five seats (Magic Seats!) and a big boot, and it was all about usability and interior smarts.

This new one still has those Magic Seats - but is only a four seater, not a five-seat SUV. And it also has a MUCH smaller boot cargo capacity.

However, the new-gen model has hybrid technology, a lot more advanced safety gear, and it looks SPECTACULAR inside and out. But it costs a lot, and it only has four-star NCAP safety.

So is it going to be the right small SUV for you? That'll depend on what you need, want or expect from your compact crossover vehicle. Watch my detailed review for the pros and cons.

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00:00 Intro
00:44 Is it the right price?
01:40 What are the best alternatives?
03:01 Is it the right size?
04:29 Interior
08:10 Under the bonnet
08:58 Driving
13:15 Efficiency
14:21 Is it safe?
15:10 Ownership
15:40 Verdict

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I am aiming to review every new car on the market that people actually buy, to help new-car customers like you, or curious car enthusiasts (maybe also like you) get the right steer when it comes to choosing a new set of wheels.

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[gotcharamsys]

the HR V has surpassed everything Honda has done so far, in addition to a European and not only Asian design, finally a model that makes the competition B and C look back .. an evolution from scratch for me very well achieved, comfort, Honda quality, superb handling, extreme safety (Advance e:hev), a premium minimalist interior, hibrido with 131hp electric main engine, keyless entry, electric tailgate, blind spot warning, full led lights, 18" multimedia wheels 9 ", and 3 driving modes, Brack hold, fog lights, Magic Seat rear seats... even if you're not interested, a test drive at the dealership won't be a waste of time, cheers!

[proverbalizer]

I rented the non-hybryd version to drive cross country from Maryland to Colorado. I'm 6"7" and it was surprisingly comfortable and nice to drive.

The milage wasn't great though, I only averaged about 27 mpg mostly driving around 80mph on the interstate

[meohmia]

I want to love hybrids, but I've yet to see one that makes me want to buy it. Thank you for another great review.

[anakinskywalker]

I would be willing consider the HRV except for the fact it is $47K. It is still reasonably priced I think for the entry level. Considering the equipment you get. I definitely prefer the interior of the HRV to the competition. At least they have tried something different.

[cathf]

I like the look of it. I actually have a civic hybrid on order, yes I know it seems overpriced, but once I drove it, I realised for what it is, it’s a lovely car, so I’m willing to wait and pay that bit extra. Honda have come back to being higher quality, as they really dropped off in the recent civics. I know a lot of people won’t buy one because of the price, but drive one and you’ll change your mind I think. The hrv was ok to drive, but the civic and zrv definitely more worth it to me. If you could review them I’d love to know your opinion Matt.

[topher.m]

As a former first Gen HRV owner. I like the way they went with the new HRV. A smaller footprint makes more sense now knowing that ZRV was on the way. The agency model has reduced their market share to basically nothing. Projected to be <15k units this next FY. Not sure how sustainable that will be.

[jamesstevenson]

Pretty sure it has wireless Apple CarPlay?

[PeterAkaczonek]

I see Honda have the new ZRV in Australia. Would love to hear your review on it, say versus this HRV and the Corrolla cross hybrid.

[geoflewis]

" Has Traffic Sign Recognition" .. ?? Sorry, Old Man here .. isn't that the drivers job .. It seems that many new cars are increasingly being fitted with more autonomous features. Is this the pathway to fully autonomous over the next several years, as opposed to just introducing them straight up .. Thanks Matt .. Cheers

[kimbridge]

only 42 drive away this year for the new model top spec so tempted

[markscott]

I had a look at the next size up ZRV. Also no blind spot monitoring unless you buy the top spec. What the?? That’s an enormous fail considering you get that on most $10, 000.00 cheaper Chinese SUVs.

[dennisk]

Great review
You are correct: Honda hrv looks great however it’s bit pricey
Especially CVT transmission and 4 seater with limited boot size..
I would like to check other brands like Toyota, Subaru etc

[johnvandeven]

Best small SUV for me is any other that has a regular 6 or 8 speed automatic, especially if it is used offroad.

[TheCaesarChris]

I think you should mention that if you don't have blind spot monitoring you are automatically capped at 4 stars with ANCAP and its not a reflection on Adult Occupant Protection or Child Occupant Protection

[berisford.jones-]

Here in the UK the entry level HR-V is $57, 000 (£30, 000) and the insurance cost is much higher than the Yaris Cross.

[wonderfulmusik]

Hi would you mind doing a Honda HRV petrol version review please?

[JustIdeas]

I’d love to see a comparison of the HRV hybrid against the brand new Kona hybrid.

[NateArnold-ci]

Nice looking car but you are right, pricey & 4 star only these days seems not acceptable…..🤔

[wonderfulmusik]

is the HRV you reviewed in the video a white or opal colour? I'm thinking of ordering one! :)

[agathazacherdefreitas]

Hello! I am really interested in this car. The price dropped to 40k. Do you think is it a go?!