Simplicity is supreme in this function-first subcompact crossover
The current generation of Honda’s smallest crossover, the HR-V, was introduced as a 2023 model. It has smoother design lines, a new engine with additionalpower and more standard safety than the previous generation. Honda prioritized practicality over power.
While Honda does have hybrid powertrains in-house, the HR-V doesn’t utilize them, which contributes to its nearly highest-in-class fuel consumption ratings for a naturally aspirated engine. No rear vents, rear centre armrest and manual-only front seats make it easier to look elsewhere. However, the strong, smooth drive feel, generous cargo space and utilitarian side of the HR-V might just bring your gaze back to it.
What powers the 2025 Honda HR-V?
The same engine as it’s been since 2023 when the new generation came out, which is a 2.0 L, four-cylinder kicking out 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, churned through a CVT. The three highest trims provide all-wheel drive, which is handy in Canadian climates, especially when paired with a quality set of winter tires. The base trim comes in front-wheel drive for those who want only two powered wheels.
What’s the Honda HR-V like to drive?
As expected, it can get a bit loud as your simulated gears rise in response to the pressure of your right foot. The RPM’s climb with an audible whine and fight with whatever you’re listening to. Once your speed is reached, the HR-V settles in nicely for a surprisingly quiet-for-the class drive. There’s a solid and sturdy feel on the road for this cute ute, in typical Honda fashion. Its small footprint makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, easy to park and fairly nimble.
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V fuel efficient?
Simply put, the 2025 Honda HR-V is not very fuel efficient, at least not when compared to its similarly-sized competitors. Ringing in at 8.7 L/100 km combined, it’s one of the highest in class, with the Kia Seltos’ 9.2 L/100 km at the top. The 53-litre fuel tank lets you travel a touch over 600 km per full tank. Now if only Honda had an existing hybrid system it could share with the HR-V, possibly one that’s currently being used in three of its vehicles…
2025 Honda HR-V infotainment and features
If you want a nine-inch infotainment screen, you’re stuck with the top-trim EX-L Navi. All other trims get a seven-inch screen. I know, I know; I can hear the scowls from here: “But the Nissan Kicks, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, Chevy Trailblazer and Trax have two massive screens!” You’re right. However, they’re all newer compared to this generation of HR-V which came out in 2023. Like me, nothing is wrong with it despite its smaller size and old-school layout.
The functionality scores high, with a responsive screen, decent resolution that’s still easy to see, and a few hard touch buttons for good measure. The backup camera is atrocious and while its low resolution might have been acceptable a decade ago, it’s unacceptable when compared to today’s high-definition offerings in other vehicles.
A highlight of the HR-V is that the HVAC system is one of the best in the industry because it uses physical buttons and dials. And that means zero HVAC controls are plunked in the infotainment system. A simple vehicle paired with simple controls is underrated.
Is the Honda HR-V’s instrument cluster digital?
The left side is, so that kinda counts for something. The right side is an analog speedometer, so Honda has jammed in a ton of controls, settings and options in the left digital side. The info is easy to see, both during the day and at night and besides, the Genesis G70, a luxury car, has a similar split setup.
How much cargo space is in the 2025 Honda HR-V?
Honda’s smallest crossover yields space aplenty with 691 litres with the rear seats up, plus an underfloor cargo area with three small cubbies for knick knacks. Fold those rear seats down and it more than doubles to 1,559 litres. If you’re going to Ikea and want to skip the delivery fee for more items than you thought, the HR-V’s cargo area should be plenty.
While we’re on the space side of things, rear seat space is adequate for the two outboard passengers with average-sized legs. Put your longest legged friend in the front seat on longer journeys. I’d say put the centre rear armrest down for some extra comfort but there isn’t one. Womp, womp.
The surprisingly comfortable driver’s seat needs to be manually adjusted, despite being the top trim. It offers a good, safe seating position but lacks the precision that comes with a power seat.
How much does the 2025 Honda HR-V cost in Canada?
There are four trims and MSRP figures are as follows:
- LX (front-wheel drive): $29,510
- LX (all-wheel drive): $31,810
- Sport (all-wheel drive): $34,710
- EX-L Navi (all-wheel drive): $37,910
There’s also a $2,000 freight and PDI charge, along with a few other fees tacked on, as well as the non-negotiable taxes portion.
What competes with the 2025 Honda HR-V?
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V a good car?
Overall, the 2025 Honda HR-V is absolutely a good car. Sure, there are things I’d like to add, specifically a power driver’s seat, vents for my rear passengers and a higher resolution reverse camera. As a total package, the HR-V drives well, has useful, even if slightly outdated technology and is ideal for those who want something that sits higher up with easier ingress/egress than a sedan. Or on the flip side, it’s great for those downsizing who want/need something smaller that’s loaded with standard safety and all-wheel drive (unless you go for the base FWD trim).
Pros
✔ Drives well
✔ Lots of cargo space
✔ Responsive infotainment system
Cons
✘ No power driver’s seat
✘ No vents for rear passengers
✘ Low resolution reverse camera
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