Small crossover SUVs are very popular these days, as they offer more affordable and maneuverable alternatives to large SUVs. Two leading choices for the segment are the Honda HR-V and the Toyota Corolla Cross. Both crossover SUVs have some positive attributes, but the HR-V has a key element in its favor. The 2023 Honda HR-V is better than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Corolla due to one big reason: an outstanding redesign.

Unlike the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross, the 2023 Honda HR-V is redesigned

In recent years, the Honda HR-V started to fall behind its competitors in the small crossover SUV segment. However, this all changed for the 2023 model year with its impressive redesign. The all-new 2023 Honda HR-V is much better than the outgoing model. And with the redesign, it’s one of the most sought-after models in the segment.

If you’re drawn to the newest things in the automotive world, then the HR-V could be a great model for you. Conversely, other than offering a new hybrid powertrain, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is mostly unchanged for the new model year.

For the exterior design, the 2023 Honda HR-V has a sportier look and multiple upgrades. This includes a larger grille, a sleek roofline, a longer hood, LED headlights, and wide LED taillights. Additionally, the hatch of the redesigned crossover SUV is more sculpted. Furthermore, it features door-mounted mirrors, and the panel between the hood and windshield is lower. These two upgrades result in improved outward visibility. 

2023 HR-V has a more upscale cabin than the 2023 Corolla Cross — with more passenger space

The 2023 Honda HR-V crossover SUV is also bigger than the outgoing model — and slightly larger than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross. As a result, it has more passenger space, with a total passenger volume of 98.7 cu-ft, compared to 88.4 cu-ft for the Corolla Cross. The most significant difference for passenger space, though, is for the rear seats. The HR-V has 37.7 inches of rear legroom, compared to 32 inches for the Corolla Cross. 

Furthermore, the HR-V has a more upscale cabin than the Corolla Cross, with higher-quality materials, better build quality, and a more modern design. Also, the HR-V provides a more comfortable ride with its new body-stabilizing front seats, which help reduce fatigue on long trips. Additionally, the outward visibility is better in the HR-V compared to the Corolla Cross.

Features in the Honda HR-V that are not available in the Toyota Corolla Cross

The 2023 HR-V offers some other features that are not available in the 2023 Corolla Cross. Examples include a noise-canceling function, a capless fuel filter, remote start, and second-row reading lights with touch-sensitive activation. Also, the HR-V offers a larger infotainment system touchscreen (9.0 vs. 8.0 inches). Additionally, while the HR-V has wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, the Corolla Cross only offers a wired version.

The HR-V and the Corolla Cross have a similar starting price ($23,800 vs. $23,060 MSRP). However, with the more upscale cabin and many features that are not available for the Corolla Cross, the HR-V offers greater value.

With its outstanding redesign, the 2023 Honda HR-V is better than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross in a crucial way. When deciding which small crossover SUV to get, this is an important consideration.