Key Takeaways

  • HR-V is a smaller, more affordable SUV, while CR-V offers more space, power, and features.
  • Both models offer good fuel economy, comfort, and safety but differ in design and performance.
  • CR-V has more advanced features and a hybrid option, unlike the HR-V

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If you’re a fan of reliable crossovers, you can’t skip over the Honda HRV vs CRV debate. But what’s the better vehicle choice?

The Honda CR-V is a larger vehicle that offers more space for passengers and cargo. It is a great choice for families or those who frequently transport large items. On the other hand, the Honda HR-V is a smaller, more compact vehicle that is ideal for city driving and navigating tight spaces.

This comprehensive comparison guide dives deep into the Honda lineup of these popular models, comparing them head-to-head in terms of design, performance, safety, and value. So buckle up, as we navigate through the CR-V vs HR-V battle to help you find your ideal ride.

Table of Contents

Honda HR-V vs. CR-V Comparison: Which Honda Crossover is Right for You?

The Honda HR-V vs. CR-V is a hot debate. Both of these Honda crossovers are top sellers, so it’s hard to decide which is the better choice. This Honda guide will review the smaller HR-V and the full CR-V lineup so you can choose your ideal vehicle.

The close Honda comparison between these two vehicles makes it hard to decide on the right choice. We will analyze how the 2023 Honda lineup matches these vehicles too. Keep reading and learn who wins the Honda CR-V vs HR-V battle.

Overview of Honda HR-V

Honda HR-V
Honda HR-V

The Honda HR-V is a subcompact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, lots of interior space, and good fuel economy.

It is a great option for those who want a smaller SUV that is easy to maneuver in the city but still has enough space for passengers and cargo. I also love how affordable the Honda CR-V is compared to other similar crossovers and SUVs.

Design and Style

The design of the HR-V is sleek and modern, with a sporty look that sets it apart from other subcompact SUVs. The exterior features a bold front grille, LED headlights, and a stylish rear spoiler.

Inside, the HR-V offers a spacious and comfortable cabin with plenty of legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers.

Performance and Handling

The HR-V comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient shifting.

The HR-V also offers available all-wheel drive, which provides better traction and handling in inclement weather.

Safety and Features

The HR-V comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist features like adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning.

Other available Honda features include a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross traffic alert. With its sleek design, efficient engine, and advanced safety features, the HR-V is a great choice for those who want a practical and stylish vehicle.

Overview of Honda CR-V

Honda CR-V
Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V is a popular compact SUV that has been a favorite among drivers for many years. It offers a comfortable ride, plenty of interior space, and good fuel economy.

In this section, we will provide an overview of the Honda CR-V, including its design and style, performance and handling, and safety and features. Plus, a comparison of the primary features you can expect from the Honda CR-V.

Design and Style

The Honda CR-V showcases a design that's both sleek and modern, delivering an aesthetic that commands attention. It exudes an undeniably sporty appeal, underscored by its bold front grille, sharp, eye-catching headlights, and a well-sculpted hood.

The body is aerodynamically designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce wind noise. The CR-V comes in a variety of colors and trim levels, so you can choose the one that best fits your style.

Performance and Handling

Honda CR-V's are powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 190 horsepower. It is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient shifting. CR-V's also have faster acceleration and a higher top speed.

The CR-V also comes with available all-wheel drive, which improves handling and traction in all weather conditions. The suspension is tuned for a comfortable ride, and the steering is responsive and precise.

Safety and Features

The Honda CR-V comes with a variety of safety features that help keep you and your passengers safe on the road. It includes advanced airbags, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

The CR-V also comes with a variety of convenience features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, a moonroof, and a power liftgate. The Honda CR-V and the Honda HR-V are pretty similar when it comes to available safety features.

Overall, the Honda CR-V is a reliable and practical compact SUV that offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, and plenty of safety and convenience features.

What Are The Differences Between The Honda HR-V And The CR-V?

When comparing the Honda HR-V and the CR-V, it's important to note that they both offer a comfortable ride, lots of interior space, and good fuel economy. However, there are some significant differences to consider when deciding which one is right for you.

Size and Space

The most obvious difference between the two Honda models is their size. The CR-V is a small crossover, while the HR-V is a subcompact SUV.

This means that the CR-V offers more interior space, including more legroom, headroom, and cargo space. If you need more space for passengers or cargo, the CR-V might be the better choice compared to what the HR-V can offer in cubic feet of storage. It also depends on the trim levels you are comparing.

Power and Performance

The Honda CR-V also has a more powerful engine than the HR-V, so it offers better acceleration and more towing capacity. However, the HR-V is more maneuverable thanks to its smaller size and tighter turning circle.

However, the compactness of the HR-V could offer easier handling and maneuverability, especially in crowded city streets or tight parking spaces. You can expect lower MPG and better fuel efficiency too. Both Honda vehicles do provide AWD and Android Auto support, though.

Features and Technology

Both the HR-V and the CR-V offer a wide range of features and technology, but the CR-V tends to offer more advanced features. For example, the CR-V is available with a hands-free power liftgate, while the HR-V is not.

The CR-V also comes standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced safety and driver-assist features. Honda is known for putting the top technology in all of their newer vehicles.

Price and Value

Finally, it's worth noting that the HR-V is generally less expensive than the CR-V. If you're on a tight budget, the HR-V might be the better choice. However, the CR-V offers more features and better performance, so it might be worth the extra cost if those things are important to you.

Direct Comparison: Honda HR-V vs. CR-V

When it comes to choosing between the Honda HR-V and the Honda CR-V, it can be a tough decision. Both SUVs offer a comfortable ride, lots of interior space, and good fuel economy. However, there are some key differences that may help you make your decision.

Exterior Comparison

The HR-V and CR-V both have a sporty and modern exterior design. The HR-V is smaller and more compact, while the CR-V is larger and more spacious.

The HR-V has a more rounded and aerodynamic body, while the CR-V has a more angular and aggressive look. This is the preferred build for drivers who like more compact vehicles. But you’ll notice less passenger volume too.

Interior Comparison

Inside, both the HR-V and CR-V offer a comfortable and spacious cabin. The HR-V has a more minimalist interior design, while the CR-V has a more luxurious and upscale feel. The CR-V has more cargo space than the HR-V, making it a better choice for families or those who need to haul large items.

The HR-V has 25 cubic feet of storage, or 55 total feet with the seats folded. The CR-V has 76.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats down. Always check these specs when choosing cars so you can find the right option for your needs.

Ideally, you want to opt for the bigger vehicle with more cubic space if you need extra storage and seating. If not, cubic space becomes less important so you can drive the Honda HR-V. And the CR-V provides much more cubic space - depending on the trim levels.

Performance Comparison

The HR-V and CR-V both offer good fuel economy and reliable performance. The HR-V has a smaller engine and is more fuel-efficient, while the CR-V has a more powerful engine and is better suited for those who need more towing capacity or want a more spirited driving experience.

Both the Honda HR-V and CR-V are equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission. They also have rear seats, Android Auto compatibility, solid passenger space, and various other features.

Safety Comparison

Both the HR-V and CR-V have excellent safety ratings and are equipped with a range of advanced safety features. The CR-V has more safety features as standard, including a blind spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert.

For example, the new Honda HR-V EX-L has some amazing safety features. The same is true for the Honda CR-V Hybrid Sport Touring, which includes a hybrid powertrain.

Honda Trim Levels Price Comparison

When it comes to pricing, the Honda HR-V is generally more affordable than the Honda CR-V.

However, the Honda CR-V offers more trim levels, which means that the price difference between the two models can vary depending on the features and options that you choose.

So what is your car worth? Here's a breakdown of the starting prices for each trim level of both models:

Honda HR-V

  • LX: $24,100
  • Sport: $26,200
  • EX: $25,395
  • EX-L: $28,200
  • Touring: $24,895

Honda CR-V

  • EX: $31,610
  • Sport Hybrid: $32,950
  • EX-L: $34,260
  • Sport Touring: $39,100

As you can see, the Honda CR-V offers a hybrid option, which is not available on the Honda HR-V. Look for local deals at an auto Honda dealership to save some money too.

Check the photos Honda provides when shopping too. You'll notice quite a few differences between these two vehicles when you view them.

The hybrid version of the CR-V is more expensive than the base model, but it offers better fuel economy, which can save you money in the long run. You'll notice these crossovers are more expensive than some sedans like the Honda Civic too.

Honda HR-V vs CR-V: Which Is Best For You?

About The Author

Charles Redding

Charles Redding

I've spent many years selling cars, working with auto detailers, mechanics, dealership service teams, quoting and researching car insurance, modding my own cars, and much more.

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