Is the 2022 Honda HR-V a Good Buy?

Yes—if you prioritize space efficiency, fuel economy, and reliability over power and cutting-edge tech, the 2022 Honda HR-V is a smart, budget-friendly buy on today’s used market. It’s the last model year with Honda’s clever “Magic Seat” that delivers exceptional cargo flexibility, but it’s also the outgoing generation, with modest performance and fewer standard driver aids than newer rivals and the redesigned 2023–2025 HR-V.

What the 2022 HR-V Does Well

The 2022 HR-V’s strengths center on practicality and low operating costs. It remains one of the most versatile subcompact SUVs you can buy, especially for urban lifestyles and small families.

• Outstanding space and versatility: The Magic Seat allows multiple seating/cargo configurations; among the class leaders for cargo room with seats up or down.
• Easy to drive and park: Light steering, tight turning radius, and good outward visibility suit city driving.
• Strong fuel economy: EPA-rated up to 30 mpg combined (FWD) and 29 mpg combined (AWD).
• Reputation for reliability: Historically above-average reliability and relatively low maintenance costs.
• All-wheel drive availability: Real Time AWD is available across most trims for extra traction in poor weather.
• Comfortable rear seat: Unusually generous rear legroom for the segment.

If you want a small SUV that behaves like a space-optimizing hatchback with SUV ride height and thrift at the pump, the 2022 HR-V fits the brief exceptionally well.

Where It Falls Short

Shoppers should know the trade-offs: the outgoing HR-V is practical but not particularly quick or quiet, and base trims lag on driver-assistance tech compared with newer competitors.

• Underpowered engine: The 1.8-liter (141 hp) feels strained on highway merges and with full loads.
• Noise and refinement: Road and engine noise are more noticeable than in newer rivals.
• Driver-assistance availability: Many advanced safety features are limited to EX/EX-L; lower trims lack Honda Sensing.
• Base infotainment: LX trim uses a small screen without Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
• Older design: This is the final year of the prior generation; the 2023+ redesign brings better ride, safety tech, and infotainment (but loses the Magic Seat).

If lively acceleration, standard advanced safety on all trims, or the newest in-cabin tech are must-haves, you’ll want to cross-shop newer models or step up in trim—and budget.

Specs and Key Figures

Here are the numbers that matter for most shoppers considering a 2022 HR-V.

• Powertrain: 1.8L 4-cylinder (141 hp, 127 lb-ft) with CVT; FWD standard, AWD available.
• EPA fuel economy: FWD 28/34/30 mpg (city/hwy/combined); AWD 27/31/29 mpg.
• Cargo capacity: Approx. 24.3 cu ft behind rear seats; up to about 58.8 cu ft with rear seats down (slightly less on AWD).
• 0–60 mph: Roughly 9.5–10.5 seconds, depending on conditions.
• Trims: LX, Sport, EX, EX-L. Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on Sport/EX/EX-L; Honda Sensing driver aids on EX/EX-L.
• Towing: Not rated in the U.S.

These figures position the HR-V as a class leader in versatility and efficiency, with performance that’s adequate but not spirited.

Safety and Reliability

The 2022 HR-V earned solid safety marks for its era, though the availability of driver-assistance tech depends on trim. Reliability has generally been a strong point for this generation.

Here’s how safety and reliability stack up for many buyers’ checklists.

• Crash test ratings: Strong overall results in federal and independent tests for the generation; headlight performance varies by trim.
• Driver aids: Honda Sensing (forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise) standard on EX/EX-L; not standard on LX/Sport.
• Reliability: Track record has been above average; routine maintenance is straightforward and affordable.
• Recalls: Fewer widespread issues on late-cycle models; verify any outstanding recalls with a VIN search at NHTSA.gov before purchase.

For best safety and convenience, target trims with Honda Sensing and better headlights. As with any used car, a pre-purchase inspection adds peace of mind.

Pricing and Value in the 2025 Used Market

As of 2025, the 2022 HR-V sits in a favorable value pocket: depreciation from new prices, but strong demand for reliable small SUVs keeps resale healthy.

• Typical asking prices: Approximately $18,000–$24,000 depending on trim, mileage, condition, and region.
• Mileage sweet spot: 20,000–50,000 miles tends to command mid-to-high teens or low twenties; certified pre-owned examples may sit higher.
• Operating costs: Insurance and maintenance are generally modest; fuel costs are low thanks to 29–30 mpg combined.
• Warranty: Original 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain coverage may remain on low-mileage examples based on the in-service date.

Compared with similarly priced rivals, the 2022 HR-V’s space efficiency and Honda’s reliability reputation make it a strong value—especially if you find an EX/EX-L with documented service history.

Trims to Target and What to Avoid

Your choice of trim meaningfully affects safety tech and infotainment. Here’s a quick guide to smarter picks.

• Best value: EX or EX-L. Both add Honda Sensing; EX-L adds leather and more amenities.
• Budget pick: Sport. Offers Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and style upgrades but lacks Honda Sensing.
• Consider skipping: LX, unless price is exceptional and you can live without smartphone integration and advanced safety features.
• AWD decision: Worth it for snowbelt climates; otherwise, FWD maximizes mpg and lowers cost.

In most cases, the safety and convenience gains on EX/EX-L are worth the premium, and they help future resale value.

How It Compares to the 2023+ HR-V and Rivals

The redesigned 2023–2025 HR-V delivers better ride quality, updated tech, and more standard safety—but it loses the Magic Seat and some cargo cleverness. Rivals offer different trade-offs.

• 2023–2025 Honda HR-V: More refined and more powerful 2.0L engine, improved infotainment and standard safety; less cargo flexibility than 2022.
• Hyundai Kona/Kia Seltos: Sharper performance and tech; warranty advantages; cargo space not as flexible as the 2022 HR-V.
• Subaru Crosstrek: Standard AWD, comfy ride, strong resale; fuel economy and interior space are competitive, though prices can run higher.
• Toyota Corolla Cross: Balanced, efficient, with Toyota Safety Sense standard; cargo space solid but lacks the HR-V’s configurable rear seat of 2022.

If maximum cargo versatility at a lower price is your priority, the 2022 HR-V stands out. If you want the latest safety tech standard and better highway manners, the 2023+ HR-V or key rivals may be worth the stretch.

Buying Checklist

To get the best 2022 HR-V for your needs and budget, follow these steps before you commit.

1. Verify trim and features: Confirm presence of Honda Sensing (EX/EX-L) and smartphone integration (Sport/EX/EX-L).
2. Check service records: Look for regular oil changes and CVT fluid service; confirm any recall work has been completed.
3. Inspect the Magic Seat: Ensure seat latches and floor panels operate smoothly; check for wear in high-use cargo areas.
4. Test drive on the highway: Evaluate acceleration, CVT behavior, and noise levels at speed.
5. Assess tires and brakes: Uneven wear can hint at alignment or suspension issues; budget accordingly.
6. Run a VIN history and pre-purchase inspection: Identify prior damage, flood exposure, or hidden mechanical issues.

A careful evaluation helps you capture the HR-V’s value proposition while avoiding surprises common to used-car purchases.

Bottom Line

The 2022 Honda HR-V is a good buy for practical-minded shoppers who want subcompact running costs with compact-SUV utility. Aim for EX or EX-L trims to get key safety features, know that performance is modest, and leverage the unique Magic Seat if cargo flexibility is a priority. If you prefer stronger acceleration and up-to-the-minute tech, consider the 2023+ HR-V or newer rivals—but expect to pay more.

Summary

Buy the 2022 HR-V if you value space, efficiency, and reliability at a reasonable price. Look for EX/EX-L, confirm maintenance and recall status, and accept that power and base-trim tech trail newer competitors. As a practical, city-friendly small SUV, it remains one of the used market’s smarter picks.

What is the life expectancy of a Honda HR-V 2022?

between 150,000 to 200,000 miles
Average Lifespan of a Honda HR-V
On average, a Honda HR-V can last between 150,000 to 200,000 miles with proper care. Honda vehicles are known for their durability, and the HR-V is no exception. Many owners report that their HR-Vs last well beyond 150,000 miles, and some even surpass the 200,000-mile mark.

How much should I pay for a 2022 Honda HR-V?

2022 Honda HR-V Pricing

	Original MSRP	KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
LX Sport Utility 4D	$23,115	$17,921
Sport SUV 4D	$26,565	$20,693
EX Sport Utility 4D	$27,815	$20,774
EX-L Sport Utility 4D	$29,415	$21,981

Is the Honda HR-V 2022 a reliable car?

Among the 137 owners who provided feedback on the 2022 Honda HR-V for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 70% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle’s reliability and styling to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.

What is the best year to avoid Honda HR-V?

Early cars from 2016 and 2017 are best avoided, as consumers have complained about sluggish acceleration and outdated infotainment systems—issues that were fixed from 2018 onwards.