The 2021 Honda HR-V Fails in One Crucial Area
If you’re interested in buying the 2021 Honda HR-V, we can understand why. It’s a small SUV with an affordable price, and critics give it pretty good ratings. However, the Honda HR-V struggles in one extremely important area.
How safe is the 2021 Honda HR-V?
The 2021 Honda HR-V isn’t exactly the safest SUV option. It does have a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), but it received a poor rating from the Insurance Insitute of Highway Safety (IIHS).
In a few different tests, the Honda HR-V received Good ratings. This is the highest score a vehicle can earn. But in the updated side safety test, it got a poor rating. This is the lowest score possible.
The HR-V’s B-Piller or verticle roof support tore away from the frame, allowing the side of the vehicle to crush inward. It almost hit the center of the driver’s seat. It struggled with structural issues and failed to protect crash dummies from head and pelvic injuries.
Side-impact accidents account for 23 percent of passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2019. The IIHS recommends that car makers strengthen the horizontal door beams and adjust the airbags to enhance cushioning.
How reliable is the 2021 HR-V?
On a positive note, the 2021 Honda HR-V is incredibly reliable. It has a predicted reliability rating of five out of five from Consumer Reports. So, while safety is a slight concern, at least you may not have significant mechanic issues to worry about.
The reliability rating is based on how well vehicles have performed in the past. Consumer Reports sends a survey out to readers with 17 potential trouble spots. This allows vehicle owners to report on any issues they may have faced from the engine, brakes, power equipment, electrical system, and more.
The current generation HR-V came out in 2016. Most of the issues purported on previous models are from 2017. The 2017 Honda HR-V struggled with transmission issues, fuel system problems, suspension problems, and brake trouble. But newer HR-V models don’t have these problems listed, meaning they could have been corrected.
Is the HR-V worth buying?
Yes, the 2021 Honda HR-V is worth buying. As an affordable SUV option, it’s also very reliable. You can get started in a new HR-V for about $21,220. This is the MSRP, so the price doesn’t include destination fees or dealership markups.
The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out 141 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. It takes about 10.4 seconds to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph, so don’t expect to be a speed demon. It provides sporty and responsive handling.
Surprisingly, the HR-V provides plenty of space for passengers in the front and rear. The interior is comfortable, and the ride quality is relatively smooth. However, the engine can be a little loud at times.
A 7.0-inch touchscreen comes standard on each trim except for the base LX model. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included. The system’s controls could be upgraded to work more efficiently. Available safety features include automated emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance.
Despite having a poor safety rating, the Honda HR-V provides plenty of value as a comfortable, budget-friendly vehicle. If it’s too small, you can move up in size to the Honda CR-V.
