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Honda HR-V
SUV · Gas · 11 versions · owner report
Ranked #6 of 10 subcompact SUVs on owner data, price and fuel economy
Every generation
Power
Combined, EPA 2027
What owners say
Our take, from owner reports
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide.
6 problems reported (1 very frequent, 2 recurrent, 3 isolated) · high confidence
Problems owners report
- Very frequentSeverely underpowered engine
Very sluggish acceleration, especially from 5-40 mph, struggles on inclines and highway merging. Described as "very slow" and a "pure drag" at low speeds.
- RecurrentCVT transmission reliability concerns
Mentioned for earlier generations (pre-2023), with recommendations for frequent fluid changes and extended warranty consideration.
- RecurrentElectrical system gremlins
Intermittent no-start conditions, dashboard warning lights "blinking like a Christmas tree," power steering failures, and erroneous error codes across multiple model years (2016, 2019, 2021, 2022). Often resolved by battery replacement or terminal cleaning.
+ 3 more issuesShow fewer
- IsolatedIntermittent infotainment/Apple CarPlay connectivity
Wireless connectivity is "hit or miss," particularly with text message functionality.
- IsolatedBuild quality/minor defects
Metallic rattles in the rear of new vehicles, poorly sealing window causing squeaks, susceptibility to windshield chips.
- IsolatedCargo space limitations
Adequate only with rear seats folded; limited space with a rear car seat installed.
The version owners recommend
For the latest generation (2023+), the EX-L trim is mentioned favorably for its feature content. The primary differentiator praised by owners is not the trim level, but the powertrain: the naturally aspirated 2.0L K20Z5 engine is highly valued for its perceived reliability and simplicity over turbocharged or hybrid alternatives. No specific "best" model year is identified, but there is a noted preference for the latest generation's platform and engine.
Competitors to consider
Owners compare it most often with the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Subaru Crosstrek, Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-5.
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Overall sentiment
Mixed sentiment with a clear generational divide. Feedback on the latest generation (2023+) is generally positive, with owners praising its reliability, practicality, comfortable ride, and the proven K20Z5 naturally aspirated engine. It is frequently described as a perfect daily driver, commuter car, and grocery getter with good safety ratings and above-average build quality for its category. However, a very frequent and dominant criticism across all generations is significant lack of power, described as "very slow," "underpowered," and "sluggish," with specific complaints about poor acceleration from low speeds and struggles on inclines. Earlier generations (2016-2022) receive more criticism regarding reliability, with recurrent reports of electrical issues, CVT transmission concerns, and various component failures. The consensus positions the HR-V as a competent, reliable, and practical choice for non-enthusiasts, but its value is heavily questioned at or near MSRP, with many owners suggesting cross-shopping competitors or stepping up to the CR-V.
Positioning vs competitors
Positioned as a value-oriented, practical subcompact SUV. It is frequently compared unfavorably to the Mazda CX-30 for driving dynamics and interior feel, and to the Toyota Corolla Cross (especially the hybrid) for fuel efficiency and refinement. It is considered larger and more practical than the Subaru Crosstrek but similarly slow. The Honda CR-V is consistently cited as a superior vehicle in every meaningful way (power, space, refinement) for a higher price, making the HR-V's value proposition weak unless significant discounts are obtained. It is seen as a more reliable but less powerful alternative to offerings from Chevrolet, Nissan, and Volkswagen in the segment.
Recommended configurations
The K20Z5 engine (non-turbo) is strongly recommended for reliability. All-wheel drive (AWD) is suggested for improved traction and resale value. Physical inspection for build quality issues like window seals and rattles is advised due to isolated reports. Using wired connections for infotainment may be more reliable than wireless based on isolated connectivity complaints. An extended warranty is suggested by some owners for the CVT transmission in earlier models.
General recommendations
Suitable for buyers prioritizing reliability, practicality, safety, and easy entry/exit over performance. Ideal for urban commuters, young families, and those using it as a daily driver for errands and light trips. NOT recommended for driving enthusiasts, those who frequently drive on highways requiring merging/passing power, or those living in hilly or mountainous areas. A thorough test drive focusing on acceleration from low speeds and on-ramp merging is essential. Cross-shop aggressively with the Mazda CX-30, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Subaru Crosstrek. Strongly consider paying more for a base Honda CR-V if the budget allows, as it addresses the HR-V's core weaknesses. Negotiate for significant discounts off MSRP to improve the value proposition.
Remarks
Owner feedback clearly separates the first-generation HR-V (based on the Fit/Jazz platform, sold ~2016-2022) from the current generation (based on the Civic platform, sold 2023+). The older generation has more documented reliability concerns with its CVT and electrical systems. The new generation's primary advantage is its carryover K20 engine, which owners specifically seek out to avoid the perceived reliability issues of Honda's 1.5L turbo and hybrid powertrains. The "magic seat" feature is absent in the current North American model. Discussions indicate high dealer inventory may enable negotiation, but specific discount ranges are not quantified in the provided data. Analysis based on owner discussions covering model years 2016 through 2026.
Generation by generation
Owner insights per generation and US complaint/recall records (NHTSA).
Complaints and recalls by model yearWorst year: 2023. Years to avoid: 2023, 2019Source: NHTSA (US)Show table
Each year graded against the model's other years: Year Score. See all Honda HR-V years to avoid
| Year | Complaints | Recalls | Most-reported area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 14 | 0 | electrical system |
| 2025 | 43 | 1 | steering |
| 2024 | 108 | 4 | steering |
| 2023 | 686 | 3 | visibility/wiper |
| 2022 | 88 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2021 | 63 | 4 | air bags |
| 2020 | 83 | 5 | electrical system |
| 2019 | 235 | 7 | electrical system |
| 2018 | 156 | 3 | electrical system |
| 2017 | 122 | 0 | power train |
| 2016 | 239 | 2 | power train |
Complaint counts come from owner reports filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Higher-selling years naturally accumulate more complaints.
Recall notices32 on record · Source: NHTSA (US)Show recalls
2025 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2024 · seat belts:frontcampaign 23V782000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Accord and HR-V vehicles. The front seat belt pretensioners may be missing the rivet that secures the quick connector and wire plate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection," 209, "Seat Belt Assembles," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
2024 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2024 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 24V859000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Pilot, and 2024 HR-V, Acura Integra and Acura Integra Type S vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may not have been tightened properly, which can result in an unsecured seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 207, "Seating Systems."
2024 · seats:critical fastenerscampaign 26V054000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023 Honda Accord, Accord Hybrid, and 2024 HR-V, Pilot, and Acura Integra vehicles. The driver's seat cushion frame may not have been tightened properly, which can result in a loose seat. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 207, "Seating Systems."
2023 · seat belts:frontcampaign 23V782000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Accord and HR-V vehicles. The front seat belt pretensioners may be missing the rivet that secures the quick connector and wire plate. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard numbers 208, "Occupant Crash Protection," 209, "Seat Belt Assembles," and 210, "Seat Belt Assembly Anchorages."
2023 · fuel system, gasoline:delivery:fuel pumpcampaign 23V858000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2013-2023 Honda Accord, Civic Coupe, Civic Sedan, Civic Hatchback, Civic Type R, CR-V, HR-V, Ridgeline, Odyssey, Acura ILX, MDX, MDX Hybrid, RDX, RLX, TLX, 2019-2022 Honda Insight, Passport, 2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid, 2018-2019 Honda Clarity PHEV, Fit, and 2015-2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, Pilot, Acura NSX vehicles. The fuel pump inside the fuel tank may fail.
2023 · steeringcampaign 24V744000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2023-2025 Acura Integra, Civic Type R, CR-V Hybrid, CR-V, HR-V, 2022-2025 Civic, Civic Hatchback, 2024-2025 Acura Integra Type S, 2025 CR-V Fuel Cell EV, Civic Hybrid, and Civic Hatchback Hybrid vehicles. The steering gearbox assembly may have been manufactured incorrectly, which can cause excessive internal friction and lead to difficulty steering the vehicle.
2022 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 23V046000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2022 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V064000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
2022 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 24V384000
Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles that were previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 23V-046. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 23V046000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 24V064000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Pilot, Accord, Civic sedan, HR-V, Odyssey, 2020 Civic coupe, Fit, 2021-2022 Civic hatchback, 2021 Civic Type R, Insight, 2020-2021 CR-V, CR-V Hybrid, Passport, Ridgeline, Accord Hybrid, 2020 Acura MDX, 2022 Acura MDX, 2020-2022 Acura RDX, and 2020-2021 Acura TLX vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, failing to suppress the air bag as intended.
2021 · back over prevention:display functioncampaign 24V384000
Honda (America Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2020 Fit and 2019-2022 HR-V vehicles that were previously recalled under NHTSA recall number 23V-046. The rearview camera image may not display when the engine is started with a key, due to a design error in the audio display power circuit. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 111, "Rear Visibility."
2021 · air bags:sensor:occupant classification:front passengercampaign 26V332000
Honda (American Honda Motor Co.) is recalling certain 2018-2021, 2023 Acura TLX, 2019-2024 RDX, 2017-2020, 2022-2026 MDX, 2017-2021, 2023, 2025 Honda Ridgeline, 2017-2022 Pilot, 2019-2021 Passport, 2018-2026 Odyssey, 2019-2022 Insight, 2019-2021 HR-V, 2018-2020 Fit, 2020-2022 CR-V Hybrid, 2017-2022 CR-V, 2017-2018, 2021 Civic Type R, 2017-2021 Civic hatchback, 2016-2020 Civic coupe, 2016-2022 Civic, 2017-2022 Accord Hybrid, and 2016-2022 Accord vehicles. The front passenger seat weight sensor may crack and short circuit, which can cause the air bags to deploy unintentionally during a crash.
17 older recalls not shown. Check nhtsa.gov with your VIN for the full history.
Specifications
2.0
2.0L 4-cylinder · 158 hp · FWD · automatic (CVT)
Built 2025–2026