What the Honda HR-V Is Comparable To

The Honda HR-V is comparable to other subcompact and entry-compact crossover SUVs, including the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Subaru Crosstrek, and Volkswagen Taos, with value rivals like the Chevrolet Trax and Nissan Kicks also in the mix. Positioned on the larger, more refined end of its class, the HR-V emphasizes comfort, space, and safety features over outright speed.

Where the HR-V Fits in the Market

Honda’s HR-V sits in the subcompact SUV segment but is among the roomier entries. In its current generation, it rides on a Civic-related platform, offering grown-up road manners, a quiet cabin, and generous passenger space. Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder (about 158 hp) with a continuously variable transmission, front-wheel drive standard, and available all-wheel drive. Fuel economy generally falls in the high-20s to low-30s mpg combined, depending on configuration.

Core Competitors You Should Cross-Shop

The models below are the most frequent cross-shops for shoppers considering a Honda HR-V. Each targets the same use case—urban-friendly size, available AWD, everyday versatility—while emphasizing different strengths like performance, value, technology, or off-pavement confidence.

• Toyota Corolla Cross (including the more efficient Hybrid)
• Mazda CX-30 (with an available turbo for class-leading power)
• Hyundai Kona (gas and EV versions; tech-forward interior)
• Kia Seltos (roomy, well-priced, with an optional turbo)
• Subaru Crosstrek (standard AWD, higher ground clearance)
• Volkswagen Taos (spacious back seat and cargo area)
• Chevrolet Trax (value leader; FWD only, no AWD)
• Buick Encore GX (near-luxe take on the formula)
• Nissan Kicks (budget-friendly, FWD only, great mpg)
• Mitsubishi Outlander Sport (aging but often discounted)

Together, these rivals bracket the HR-V across price, performance, and equipment levels. Shoppers typically narrow this set based on desired acceleration, all-weather traction, and infotainment/safety preferences.

How the HR-V Stacks Up

Size, Space, and Comfort

The HR-V is one of the larger entries in its class, translating to adult-friendly rear-seat room and competitive cargo capacity. If maximum space is your priority, also look at the Taos, Seltos, and Corolla Cross, which are standouts for back-seat legroom and upright cargo holds. The CX-30 trades some cargo volume for a more premium cabin feel, while the Trax delivers surprising room at a lower price but lacks AWD.

Performance and Efficiency

Honda tunes the HR-V for smoothness and predictability rather than punch. For stronger acceleration, the Mazda CX-30 (especially with the turbo engine), Hyundai Kona 1.6T, Kia Seltos 1.6T, and Volkswagen Taos offer brisker responses. If mpg is your priority, the Corolla Cross Hybrid and Nissan Kicks typically top efficiency charts; the HR-V’s economy is solid but not class-leading. Subaru’s Crosstrek blends decent mpg with standard AWD and extra ground clearance for light trails and winter conditions.

Tech, Safety, and Features

Modern driver-assist suites are widely available in this class, and the HR-V comes well-equipped with Honda Sensing features on every trim. Comparable active-safety tech is standard or widely offered on the Corolla Cross, CX-30, Kona, Seltos, and Crosstrek. Infotainment has improved across competitors: Hyundai and Kia lead with big, crisp displays; Mazda emphasizes clean UX; Honda’s latest system is straightforward and responsive. Many of these models have earned strong crash-test ratings; availability and level of recognition (such as IIHS Top Safety Pick/TSP+) can vary by year, trim, and headlight choice, so verify the exact configuration you’re considering.

Price and Value

HR-V pricing typically lands in the mid-$20,000s to just under $30,000 before options and destination, aligning closely with Corolla Cross, Seltos, Kona, Taos, and CX-30. Subaru’s Crosstrek can edge higher with the larger engine and options, while the Chevrolet Trax and Nissan Kicks undercut the field on price—though both are FWD-only. The Buick Encore GX targets shoppers wanting a more upscale badge and finish without jumping to luxury-brand pricing.

Quick Reference: Which Models Match Your Priorities

Use the following guide to align your needs with the strongest fits among HR-V competitors. It can help you narrow test-drive choices more efficiently.

• All-weather confidence: Subaru Crosstrek (standard AWD), Mazda CX-30 (standard AWD), HR-V/AWD
• Most engaging drive: Mazda CX-30 (especially Turbo), Hyundai Kona 1.6T, Kia Seltos 1.6T, VW Taos
• Best fuel economy: Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, Nissan Kicks; HR-V is competitive but mid-pack
• Most rear-seat/cargo room: VW Taos, Kia Seltos, Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V
• Best budget play: Chevrolet Trax, Nissan Kicks, select trims of Hyundai Kona and Kia Seltos
• Near-luxury feel without luxury pricing: Mazda CX-30, Buick Encore GX, Honda HR-V EX-L

While the HR-V is a balanced choice across categories, focusing on your top two priorities—space, power, traction, tech, or price—will clarify whether it or a rival offers the best fit.

Bottom Line

The Honda HR-V’s closest comparables are the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Subaru Crosstrek, and Volkswagen Taos, with budget-focused alternatives like the Chevrolet Trax and Nissan Kicks. The HR-V distinguishes itself with a refined ride, roomy cabin, comprehensive safety features, and Honda’s long-standing reputation for reliability. If you want more punch, lean Mazda/Kia/Hyundai; more space, look at VW/Toyota; better value, consider Chevy/Nissan; extra winter prowess, Subaru stands out. Ultimately, test-driving your top two or three picks will make the differences clear.

Summary: The Honda HR-V competes in the subcompact/entry-compact SUV class against the Corolla Cross, CX-30, Kona, Seltos, Crosstrek, Taos, and value options like the Trax and Kicks. It prioritizes comfort, space, and safety over speed, making it a strong all-rounder for buyers seeking an easy-driving, well-equipped small SUV.

Which is better, CR-V or HR-V?

Neither the CR-V nor the HR-V is inherently “better”; the ideal choice depends on your needs, with the CR-V offering more space, power, features, and available hybrid technology, making it better for families and hauling, while the HR-V provides greater fuel efficiency, a more affordable price, and better maneuverability for city driving. 
Choose the Honda CR-V if you need:

• More Space: The CR-V is a larger compact SUV with a bigger cargo area, more rear-seat legroom, and a higher overall seating capacity. 
• More Power: It offers a more powerful turbocharged engine and a more robust available hybrid powertrain, which also provides better fuel economy, especially on the highway. 
• More Features: The CR-V typically has more available features, trims, and amenities, such as rear air vents and dual-zone climate control. 

Choose the Honda HR-V if you need:

• Better Fuel Economy: The smaller, lighter HR-V is designed for fuel efficiency and is a great choice if you want to conserve fuel. 
• A Lower Price Point: The HR-V is more affordable, making it an excellent entry-level option for budget-conscious buyers. 
• Easier Maneuverability: Its smaller size and lighter weight make the HR-V more agile and easier to drive in urban environments. 
• Compact Size: The HR-V is a subcompact crossover, offering a nimble driving experience for daily city commutes and easier parking. 

What cars are similar to the Honda HR-V?

Cars similar to 2025 Honda HR-V

• 2025 Honda HR-V. Get Your Price.
• 2025 Subaru Crosstrek. Get Your Price.
• 2025 Mazda CX-30. #7 in Small SUVs. Get Your Price.
• 2025 Nissan Kicks. #17 in Compact Cars. Get Your Price.
• 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross. #9 in Small SUVs. Get Your Price.
• 2025 Honda CR-V. #5 in Mid-Size SUVs. Get Your Price.

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.

Is the Honda HR-V a small or midsize SUV?

subcompact SUV
The Honda HR-V is classified as a subcompact SUV, smaller than compact models like the Honda CR-V. This category balances the agility of smaller cars with the practicality of larger vehicles.