Honda | The new HR-V blurs the lines

Weeks after teasing the first images of the second-generation HR-V subcompact crossover, Honda has given a full briefing on this important model. Completely revised, from the platform to the engine through the bodywork, this cuvée swells, a sign of an era that values ​​ever larger vehicles.

Charles Rene
The Press

At almost 4.6m long, the HR-V increases its length by 22cm and is just 6cm short of the overall length of a CR-V. The wheelbase of the HR-V 2023 is also just 5mm shorter than that of its big brother. It is therefore difficult to use the qualifier “sub-compact” in front of such dimensions. Curiously, cargo space is essentially identical to that of its predecessor (691L), as are the seating measurement points which feature minor gains in some places and slight setbacks in others.

Most of the work has been devoted to the refinement of the product, if we rely on the information provided by the manufacturer. Its reworked platform receives the contribution of a multi-link rear suspension, which also combines with its wheelbase extended by 4.5 cm and its widened tracks to soften its manners and support its stability.

The naturally aspirated 2.0L four-cylinder is currently the only engine offered. With 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque, it does not aspire to shave sports cars, but the gains are beneficial compared to the old 1.8 L which lacked resources. It can be optionally paired with all-wheel drive, while the more affordable versions are content with two front-wheel drive. A continuously variable gearbox does the job in both cases. In a context of rising fuel prices, it will consume about 500 ml more per 100 km than the previous generation (8.3 L/100 km in front-wheel drive and 8.7 L/100 km before all-wheel drive) . It is inevitably a disappointment.

The 2023 Honda HR-V will arrive in Canadian dealerships sometime in June with a starting price of $28,730, or $2,530 more than the one it replaces.