Japanese automaker Honda has produced quality automobiles for decades. Nameplates like the Honda CR-V have left a lasting impression on the automotive industry. The company has also experienced success with larger SUV models like the Pilot and Passport. What’s the worst Honda SUV in the automaker’s lineup?

The Honda HR-V is the worst Honda SUV

The Honda HR-V exists in a competitive vehicle segment. Sadly, its rivals have clear advantages over Honda’s subcompact model. The HR-V competes with popular models like the Hyundai Kona and Subaru Crosstrek. Subcompact SUV models have the potential to be fun, affordable, and loaded with standard features.

The HR-V misses the mark for several reasons. One of the main reasons that the HR-V is the worst of Honda’s current SUV lineup is that it isn’t powerful enough to be exciting. The subcompact SUV uses a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine to make a measly 141 horsepower.

The Honda HR-V’s ride quality also leaves much to be desired, which is odd for a Honda model. Even Honda’s pickup truck, the Honda Ridgeline, has a smooth ride quality.

If Toyota is the king of affordability and practicality, then many consumers look to Honda for performance. Honda SUVs may not be as affordable, fuel-efficient, or even as spacious as competitors, but they usually offer exceptional driving dynamics. Car and Driver gave the Honda HR-V a 6/10 overall rating.

Is the Honda HR-V worth it?

The 2022 Honda HR-V starts at $21,870. It comes in four different trim levels. The subcompact SUV achieves 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.

The HR-V provides lots of cargo space for its size. Its cabin isn’t luxurious, but it’s modern enough to compete with some rivals in its vehicle segment. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has found the HR-V to be one of the least safe small SUVs because of its unique design.

The HR-V performed poorly in side crash tests. Since side crashes are responsible for a large percentage of accident injuries and fatalities, the subcompact SUV may not be everyone’s first choice, considering how many other safer options there are on the market.

Honda’s small SUV also happens to be more expensive than many of its competitors despite being scored lower by several automotive publications. Ultimately, there are several Honda HR-V alternatives that consumers should consider before purchasing Honda’s worst SUV.

There are many better small SUV alternatives to the worst Honda SUV

The Mazda CX-3 is an IIHS top safety pick. If safety is what you’re looking for in a subcompact SUV, the CX-3 is one of the best options. If you want an exciting small SUV, it’s tough to compete with the Hyundai Kona. This little SUV has plenty of zip and has earned a solid reputation as one of the most fun small SUVs to drive.

Honda’s worst SUV isn’t horrible. It just isn’t the best choice in its class. The Honda HR-V is no CR-V, but it isn’t easy living up to a family name so renowned.