The new Honda HR-V is an attractive tiny SUV option to consider, but looks can be deceiving. As more critics hit the streets, they seem to be underwhelmed by the option that’s supposed to live up to the Honda Fit. So, let’s see why the 2023 Honda HR-V is falling short. 

How much does the 2023 Honda CR-V cost? 

The 2023 Honda HR-V price starts at about $23,800, which isn’t bad. The top-spec Honda HR-V takes the cost up to $27,900. There are three trim levels available, but only one engine option. 

Rivals have a few more options and start at lower prices. For example, The 2023 Mazda CX-30 begins at around $22,950, and the loaded 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus model increases the price to $35,400. There are seven trims available and two engine options. 

The 2023 Hyundai Kona starts at $21,990, while the top Limited model takes it up to $28,800. There are four trim levels available, with two engine options. 

Plus, competitors may have more value. The Mazda CX-30 has standard all-wheel drive. But it’s still early. The 2023 HR-V could add more features and power soon. 

How much power does the 2023 HR-V have?

The 2023 Honda HR-V has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in over 10 seconds. Vehicles in this class aren’t exactly known for speed, but this is surprisingly slower than rivals. 

With the Mazda CX-30, the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out 186 hp and 186 lb-ft of torque. That’s more standard power than the HR-V has to offer. It can reach 60 mph in about 9.0 seconds. 

If you upgrade to the 2.5-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine for up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, then the CX-30 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 6.4 seconds. 

But the HR-V is praised for having responsive handling and confident brakes. The CX-30 is praised for having excellent corning, a secure grip, and an athletic character. 

Note that the Honda HR-V doesn’t have an available towing capacity. It’s not recommended for towing. The Mazda CX-30 can tow up to 2,000 lbs, which is honestly surprising. 

The Honda HR-V gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 32 mpg on the highway. The Mazda CX-30 gets an EPA-estimated 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. 

What makes the 2023 HR-V standout?

According to Cars.com, the 2023 Honda HR-V lacks magic. Literally, it lost the Magic Seat feature. The outgoing model had a seat that could flip up to provide more space for taller items. But it did gain more passenger room at the cost of cargo space. 

The AWD system gained a new Snow mode. It also has a Normal and Eco modes. There’s no Sport mode to liven things up. However, the 2023 HR-V has an incredibly smooth ride for the class. 

The interior is crafted with high-quality materials and has a well-planned layout. Everything you need is easily within reach, there’s plenty of visibility, and there are tons of cargo trays and cubbies for storage. 

While the HR-V is a well-rounded vehicle, it just feels a little underwhelming. It has some work to do if it wants to catch up to competitors.