The 2023 model year is widely regarded as the best overall HR-V, thanks to a complete redesign that brought a larger interior, a more modern powertrain, and upgraded safety features. This article breaks down the two generations and explains how to choose the right year for your budget and priorities.
Generational overview
Honda launched the HR-V in 2016 as a compact crossover. The model was updated across two generations: the original design ran through the 2022 model year, and a redesigned second generation began with the 2023 model year. Here’s what buyers should know about each generation and what they mean for value, reliability, and features.
First generation (2016–2022)
The original HR-V prioritized interior space and practicality in a small footprint. It offered a modest 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a CVT and available all-wheel drive. Across years, the first generation spawned a reputation for good cargo flexibility and a comfortable ride for its size, though some buyers found the power modest and the tech amenities lagging behind newer rivals. Reliability and ownership costs in this generation vary by year and trim, so consumers typically focus on condition, maintenance history, and inspection results when shopping used.
Pros
- Strong cargo room for a subcompact SUV, with versatile seating configurations
- Lower purchase prices on used examples compared with newer rivals
- Wide availability of dealer/service networks and parts
Concluding thoughts for the first generation: If you’re shopping on a budget and find a well-maintained late-model example, the first-generation HR-V can still be a practical daily driver, but buyers should carefully evaluate maintenance records and CVT wear.
Second generation (2023–present)
The 2023 redesign marks a substantial shift: the HR-V moved to a more modern platform, grew in size, and adopted a different powertrain setup. It introduced a turbocharged feel in some markets and, in North America, a 2.0-liter inline-four with improved horsepower and torque, paired with a CVT. The interior was modernized with more passenger and cargo space, a refined design, and updated safety and technology features, including Honda Sensing as standard in many trims. The second generation is generally praised for better overall drivability, more sophisticated tech, and stronger everyday usability than its predecessor, though pricing is higher on new models and used examples may still carry a premium for a few years after launch.
Pros
- Better interior space and improved ride quality relative to the first generation
- Updated technology, infotainment, and safety features (often with Honda Sensing standard)
- Stronger powertrain performance and more modern styling
Concluding thoughts for the second generation: If you want the latest features, better safety equipment, and a more current design, the 2023–present HR-V is the model to beat. Expect higher upfront and used prices, but the value comes in updated tech and comfort.
Which year should you buy?
Choosing the right year depends on your priorities: latest tech and safety, budget constraints, or long-term reliability. Here’s a concise guide to help you decide.
Best overall for most buyers seeking modern tech and space: 2023–2024 HR-V models. These cars benefit from the redesign, improved interior, more cargo space, and standard safety features that align with today’s standards.
- Prospective buyers should consider new- or low-mileage 2023–2024 models for the latest features, warranty coverage, and resale value.
- Be mindful of price, as newer used examples will command higher prices than older stock.
Best value if you’re shopping used and conscious of cost: late first-generation models around 2019–2021, provided you verify maintenance history and CVT health. These can offer a balance of price and practicality, with the caveat that some early-tech features will be behind the 2023 redesign.
Budget-conscious option with the lowest price: earlier first-generation examples (2016–2018) can be found at substantially lower prices, but buyers should budget for potentially higher maintenance costs and less up-to-date safety tech.
Summary
The short answer is that the 2023 HR-V represents the best balance of modern features, interior space, and safety technology for most buyers today. If you’re prioritizing a fresh design and the latest tech, aim for a 2023–2024 model. If budget is the driver, exploring well-maintained late-first-generation models (2019–2021) can yield good value, while older first-gen units are most affordable but require careful inspection and potentially higher maintenance. Always weigh safety features, fuel economy, warranty status, and your own driving needs when choosing a year.