Honda unveils the completely redesigned 2023 HR-V today for the North American market and the good news for consumers is that it will arrive in dealerships as early as this month.
Once popular but now overshadowed by many more modern and capable rivals, the little HR-V gets a pretty drastic makeover for its second generation. The Fit having disappeared, it uses a new, more rigid architecture combining those of the CR-V and Civic while borrowing the mechanics of the latter.
“The new HR-V is the right size for those looking for an SUV that can park in tight spaces and haul everything, while providing a fun and sporty driving experience,” said Steve Hui, vice-president Vice President of Honda Canada.
Stronger, but a funny face
221mm longer and 70mm wider, the 2023 Honda HR-V is beefier and more robust in appearance. The headlights and corners of the bumper are reminiscent of the Civic, but the redesigned grille is quite unique. It will be the signature of new Honda SUVs, like the 2023 CR-V. One thing is certain, it won’t appeal to everyone.
The profile is more successful, especially with the new 17-inch wheels, while the modernized taillights and the spoiler at the top of the tailgate add sportiness. Higher trims like the Sport have their own accents and finishes. The palette includes eight different colors, including the new Pearl Nordic Forest.
Photo: Honda
Practical and trendy interior
Honda says the 2023 HR-V is more comfortable, especially with the redesigned seats, in addition to offering one of the largest trunks in the category (691 liters). A statement of the main measurements, however, tells us that the legroom in the rear seats (958 mm) and the total cargo volume (1,559 liters with the bench seat folded) are lower than the outgoing HR-V. Ditto for headroom in both rows.
Visibility is improved and the presentation is similar to that of the new Civic, for example the honeycomb mesh that stretches horizontally and conceals the ventilation openings. The center console is very different: on top, a row of buttons (including the drive mode selector) set back from the gear lever, then below, USB charging sockets and an easy-access storage space for small objects.
Photo: Honda
For the first time, the HR‑V offers a seven-inch digital instrument panel. The central touch screen measures seven or nine inches depending on the version. A navigation system is available as is the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly, a wireless charging tray and an improved sound system with eight speakers.
New more powerful engine
As mentioned earlier, the 2023 Honda HR-V ditches the 1.8-litre engine for the 2.0-litre one, which is notably found under the hood of the Civic. Its power therefore climbs from 141 to 158 horsepower and its torque from 127 to 138 lb-ft.
The continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) has been improved and simulates gear changes under acceleration, while the optional all-wheel drive has been retuned to send more torque to the rear wheels when the road gets slippery.
Photo: Honda
Other new technical features include grade cruise control, snow mode, reprogrammed steering, larger brakes for quicker stops, and a multi-link independent rear suspension that provides better balance between comfort and handling.
Finally, on the safety side, Honda’s latest driver and front passenger airbag technology is now used in the HR-V. There are now knee airbags too. The range of Honda Sensing driver assistance devices is on the menu, employing a camera with a wider field of vision, and is improved by the addition of blind spot monitoring, traffic jam assistance and recognition of traffic signs. Want more? Low-speed brake control and false start prevention, driver drowsiness detection and rear seat occupant reminder are all new for 2023.
Photo: Honda
How many?
The 2023 Honda HR-V retails from $30,680 including freight and delivery. Add around $2,200 for all-wheel drive. The Sport and EX-L NAVI trims that dominate the lineup cost $35,880 and $39,080, respectively.
Subaru Crosstreks, Kia Seltos, Toyota Corolla Crosses and other subcompact SUVs will need to be wary. The Car Guide will soon have the opportunity to test it, so it’s not to be missed. Subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss a thing!