The 2023 Honda HR-V is a redesigned, larger, and more capable version of the 2022 HR-V, offering a stronger engine, updated platform, and enhanced technology and safety features. The 2022 model remains the older design with a smaller engine and fewer standard tech options.
To understand the change, it helps to compare how the two model years differ in key areas such as powertrain, chassis, interior tech, safety features, and overall practicality. Below is a concise breakdown of what changed from 2022 to 2023.
Overview of the main differences between the two model years:
- Powertrain and performance: The 2023 HR-V adopts a larger 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing around 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The 2022 HR-V uses a smaller 1.8-liter engine with about 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, also paired with a CVT. All-wheel drive (Real Time AWD) remains available on both, depending on trim.
- Platform and ride quality: The 2023 HR-V switches to Honda’s newer global small-car platform, aimed at improving rigidity, ride comfort, and interior packaging. The 2022 HR-V uses the older platform, which offers the earlier styling and dynamics.
- Exterior design and size: The 2023 model features updated styling cues and a slightly roomier footprint, with modest gains in interior space and cargo versatility. The 2022 HR-V has a more conventional, less rugged appearance and slightly smaller overall dimensions.
- Interior technology and connectivity: The 2023 HR-V generally offers a larger touchscreen (often a 9-inch display on higher trims) with improved smartphone integration and more USB-C ports, along with updated materials. The 2022 HR-V typically provides a smaller screen and older infotainment layout on base trims, with standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto in most configurations.
- Safety features and driver-assistance: Honda Sensing—Honda’s suite of safety and driver-assistance features—became standard on most or all trims of the 2023 HR-V. In 2022, Sensing was more often limited to higher trims or optional packages.
- Trims and pricing: The 2023 HR-V price typically starts higher due to the redesigned platform, upgraded engine, and enhanced tech, with added features across trims. The 2022 HR-V remains the more budget-friendly option but with fewer standard features and newer technology.
In summary, the 2023 HR-V brings a substantial upgrade over the 2022 model in power, architecture, interior tech, and safety when compared head to head. The 2022 HR-V still offers a practical, affordable option for buyers who don’t need the latest features or the newest engineering approach.
Specifications at a glance
Powertrain and performance
The 2023 HR-V is equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing about 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. All-wheel drive is available depending on trim. The 2022 HR-V uses a 1.8-liter engine with roughly 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, also mated to a CVT, with AWD available on select trims.
Platform and ride
The 2023 model rides on Honda’s newer global small-car platform, designed to improve structural rigidity, ride quality, and interior packaging. The 2022 HR-V uses the previous generation’s platform, which supports a more traditional compact-SUV feel but with less modern chassis refinement.
Exterior and interior design
Design updates in 2023 give the HR-V a more contemporary, rugged look with incremental increases in interior space and cargo practicality. The 2022 HR-V presents the older styling language and a compact footprint that remains practical but less expansive than the 2023 version.
Technology and connectivity
The 2023 HR-V typically features a larger central touchscreen on higher trims, improved smartphone integration (often enhanced Apple CarPlay and Android Auto experience), and additional USB-C ports. The 2022 HR-V offers older infotainment hardware with smaller screens and fewer modern connectivity options in base configurations.
Safety and driver assistance
Honda Sensing becomes standard across more 2023 HR-V trims, enhancing features such as collision mitigation braking, road-departure mitigation, and adaptive cruise control. In 2022, some or all of these features were limited to higher trims or optional packages, depending on the market.
Bottom line
For buyers prioritizing performance, interior technology, and safety, the 2023 HR-V presents clear advantages over the 2022 model. If price, simplicity, and a lower entry point are more important, the 2022 HR-V remains a solid, cost-conscious choice within Honda’s lineup. Always check local trim and feature availability, as equipment can vary by region and model year.
Summary
The 2023 Honda HR-V marks a major step forward from the 2022 model, with a bigger engine, a new platform, enhanced interior tech, and more standard safety features, all contributing to a more modern and capable subcompact SUV. The 2022 HR-V, while smaller in scope, still delivers practical space and affordability for buyers who don’t need the latest updates. Consider your budget, desired tech level, and need for power when choosing between the two.