2021 Honda HR-V Review: All in on Function over Form
Americans love crossover SUVs; they're the most popular types of vehicles in the USA right now and are quickly catching up to pickup trucks in sales. To be successful in such a competitive segment, they have to be practical, safe, affordable, and comfortable - qualities that quite accurately describe the 2021 Honda HR-V. For 2021, the subcompact crossover receives some minor updates and changes to keep it compelling alongside its very many competitors: the Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, and Chevrolet Blazer to name just a few. With just a basic 141-horsepower 1.8-liter inline-4 motor mounted upfront paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, the HR-V crossover is to no extent an entertaining vehicle to drive, but it offers everything any homely American family could need, including space, comfort, and oodles of features.
Best Deals on 2021 Honda HR-V
2021 HR-V Exterior
Dimensions
Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
170.4 in | 102.8 in | 63.2 in | 69.8 in | 60.4 in | 60.6 in | 2,906.0 lbs |
Exterior Colors
2021 HR-V Performance
Engine and Transmission
2021 HR-V Interior
Seating and Interior Space
2021 HR-V Trunk and Cargo Space
2021 HR-V Safety and Reliability
Warranty
Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
---|---|---|---|
3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
---|---|---|---|
5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Honda HR-V A Good SUV?
With its spacious, versatile, and practical interior, thrifty fuel economy returns, and high safety and reliability standards, the 2021 Honda HR-V is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a pragmatic, subcompact, family-friendly SUV. Honda somehow manages to get the most out of the HR-V with its cabin proving surprisingly spacious from front to rear and within the cargo bay. Even with so much room as standard, the Magic Seats in the back allow for even more versatility when it comes to hauling larger or oddly shaped cargo. For passengers, the seats are amply comfy and there are plenty of creature comforts and conveniences to enjoy.
Where the HR-V could be better is in the performance and ride it delivers. Where crossovers such as the Hyundai Kona and Kia Soul benefit from newer turbocharged motors and are a lot more serene on the road, the HR-V feels a little underpowered and uncouth, and is a little too shuddery over typical road obstacles. It's also not the best looking SUV crossover out there, bearing a rather bland exterior impression and basic cabin design.
Nevertheless, with its pragmatic design and the NHTSA and IIHS's superb crashworthiness review, the 2021 Honda HR-V is an ideal 5-door family runabout.
What Honda HR-V Model Should I Buy?
Being that the 2021 HR-V is a pragmatic family runabout - no more, no less - we'd opt for the mid-spec EX model and dismiss the entry-spec LX and appearance-spec Sport completely. It adds a good amount of additional creature comforts and conveniences to the basic list, including keyless entry with push-button start, climate control, heated front seats, and a moonroof. The infotainment system is upgraded with SiriusXM and HD radio connectivity and is outfitted with two additional speakers. It also comes standard with Honda Sensing, which is a suite of advanced driver-assists and safety features, further elevating the HR-V's family appeal. The price of the 2021 Honda HR-V crossover in EX guise is $25,340 with the destination charge included