The 2026 Honda HR-V is ready to take on its rivals in the small SUV market, and here's why you should pay attention. With exciting new standard features like wireless charging and seamless connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this vehicle is making a strong statement.
One of the standout qualities of the HR-V is its comfortable and spacious interior, which is adorned with appealing materials that enhance the overall driving experience. Additionally, the cargo space is generous, making it practical for everyday use. If you're in the market for a compact SUV, you'll find the starting price of $26,500 to be quite competitive.
While first impressions are important, getting to know a car more intimately after spending some time behind the wheel provides a clearer picture. That's precisely why I like to share my insights after testing a vehicle for about a week, allowing me to observe how it performs over time.
This week, I'm revisiting the Honda HR-V subcompact SUV, a car that first caught my attention in June 2022.
Car of the Week: 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L
What exactly is this vehicle? It’s a five-passenger subcompact SUV, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options.
How much will it set you back? The base model of the 2026 Honda HR-V starts at $26,500.
The fully equipped all-wheel-drive HR-V EX-L that I tested came in at $32,005, and it's worth noting that these prices do not include an additional destination fee of $1,450.
Sales Performance
In 2025, Honda sold 148,771 units of the HR-V, making it their fourth best-selling vehicle in the U.S., nestled comfortably between the popular Accord and Pilot models.
Why Should You Consider It?
Although the current generation of the HR-V is nearing the end of its production cycle, it remains an excellent value in a crowded field of impressive competitors. If you're searching for a small SUV, I highly recommend taking the HR-V for a test drive.
Reflecting on my initial experience driving the 2023 HR-V along the picturesque forest roads of the Columbia Gorge back in June 2022, I noted:
* "The HR-V has quietly emerged as a hit for Honda."
* "While responsive, it doesn’t necessarily deliver a sporty driving experience."
Current Thoughts:
* The 2026 Honda HR-V excels in various aspects.
* Despite being on the market for several years, this second-generation model still boasts a contemporary look.
* The interior remains inviting, with quality materials and ample cargo space.
* Notably, the 2026 version comes equipped with a larger 9-inch touchscreen, an upgrade from the previous 7-inch display.
* Plus, features like wireless charging, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are now standard.
Competitors to Keep in Mind
The Honda HR-V goes up against several noteworthy challengers, including the Chevrolet Trax, Trailblazer, Hyundai Kona, Kia Seltos, Mazda CX-30, Nissan Kicks, Toyota Corolla Cross, and VW Taos.
Room for Improvement:
There were a few areas where the HR-V could enhance its offering:
* I had difficulty engaging the adaptive cruise control feature.
* While the power is sufficient for most situations, it’s wise to plan your overtaking maneuvers carefully.
* Introducing a hybrid or electric variant of the subcompact SUV could be a beneficial addition for Honda.
Key Specifications and Features of the Honda HR-V:
* Starting Price: $26,500 (excluding destination fee)
* Available in Front-Wheel or All-Wheel Drive
* Seating Capacity: Five passengers
* Engine: 2.0L naturally aspirated engine
* Power Output: 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque
* Estimated Fuel Economy: For the AWD model, it’s 27 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined, using regular gasoline. The projected annual fuel cost is approximately $1,650.
* Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT)
* Dimensions: Wheelbase measures 104.5 inches, while the overall length is 179.8 inches.
* Curb Weight: AWD model weighs in at 3,336 pounds.
* Manufacturing Location: Assembled in Celaya, Mexico.
Feel free to reach out to Mark Phelan at 313-222-6731 or email mmphelan@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @mark_phelan for more updates. For further automotive insights, explore more on our auto section and subscribe to our newsletter!
