The 2022 Honda HR-V is generally a solid, value-oriented choice in the subcompact SUV class, offering generous cargo space, strong reliability, and good fuel economy. It trades some polish and acceleration for practicality and cost-effectiveness.
This article looks at what the 2022 HR-V does well, where it falls short, and how it compares with the redesigned 2023 HR-V and key rivals. The 2022 model sits at the end of Honda’s first-generation HR-V lineup, delivering a straightforward powertrain and roomy interior that appeal to families and daily commuters, while newer rivals push ahead in technology and refinement.
Performance and efficiency
The HR-V prioritizes practicality over sporty driving dynamics. Here’s what to expect from the 2022 model’s performance and efficiency.
- Powertrain and drive: A 1.8-liter inline-4 paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT); front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel-drive available as an option.
- Acceleration: Sufficient for everyday driving, but it feels slow on highway merges and when passing, especially compared with some rivals.
- Ride and noise: Comfortable ride with decent damping; engine noise and CVT drone can become noticeable under heavy acceleration.
Overall, the HR-V offers predictable, efficient transportation rather than lively performance.
Interior, practicality, and technology
Seating and cargo versatility
The 2022 HR-V stands out in its class for interior space and flexible cargo options, making it a strong value for buyers who need practical Room for people and gear.
- Space: Generous front-seat room and a surprisingly roomy rear seat for a subcompact SUV.
- Cargo: One of the best cargo capacities in the segment, with 60/40-split folding rear seats that create a flat loading floor when needed.
- Versatility: The rear seats fold flat and can be configured to maximize cargo or passenger space as needed.
In short, versatility and practicality are among the HR-V’s strongest selling points.
Infotainment and technology
Technology in the 2022 HR-V covers core connectivity and driver aids, but it’s not the newest package in this segment.
- Infotainment: A touchscreen-based system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) is available, offering straightforward usability for daily use.
- Controls and interface: Layout is generally intuitive, though some rivals offer larger screens and more premium materials.
- Connectivity and features: Standard USB ports and basic driver information displays; higher trims add additional features and convenience touches.
Overall, the tech is functional and reliable, but not showy by today’s standards.
Safety, reliability, and ownership costs
Reliability and safety features are important considerations for the HR-V’s target buyers, especially in the used-car market.
- Safety features: Honda Sensing (or equivalent robust driver-assistance features) is available across many trims and helps with collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist where equipped.
- Reliability: Honda has a strong reputation for long-term reliability, and the HR-V benefits from that heritage, contributing to favorable resale value among subcompact SUVs.
- Ownership costs: Generally affordable to service and maintain; good fuel economy helps keep operating costs reasonable for a practical daily driver.
In summary, the 2022 HR-V is typically economical to own and tends to perform well in reliability surveys, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.
How the 2022 HR-V stacks up against the 2023 redesign and rivals
Compared with the redesigned 2023 HR-V, the 2022 model lacks some of the newer engine options, updated cabin materials, and modernized tech. Still, it remains a strong value in the used market because of space, practicality, and Honda’s reputation for reliability.
- With the 2023 redesign, Honda generally offered more power, updated styling, and newer technology; shoppers on a tighter budget may find the 2022 model’s price appealing.
- Rivals such as the Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR, and Nissan Qashqai each offer varying strengths—some with stronger acceleration, more premium interiors, or different cargo configurations. The HR-V tends to excel in cargo space and overall practicality for the price.
For buyers who prioritize space and value over the latest tech or quickest acceleration, the 2022 HR-V remains competitive; those who want a more modern feel or stronger performance may prefer a newer model or a rival with more up-to-date features.
Summary
The 2022 Honda HR-V is a practical, dependable choice in the subcompact SUV segment, delivering ample cargo room, comfortable daily usability, and solid reliability. It’s not the sportiest option, and its interior tech plays catch-up with newer rivals, but it offers compelling value for buyers who want space, efficiency, and low ownership costs. If you can stretch to a 2023 or newer model, you’ll gain additional power and updated features, but a well-kept 2022 HR-V remains a sensible used-car pick for many shoppers.