2025 Honda HR-V: Civic’s Big Brother Needs Similar Hybrid Tech

The Honda HR-V was completely redesigned for 2023, adopting the Civic’s platform and gaining size in the process. It is marginally more accommodating than the first generation, however, and naturally a bit less fuel-efficient.

Two years later, the 2025 HR-V is largely unchanged yet more expensive. The base LX model is available with either front-wheel drive (starting at $31,632.50 including freight, PDI and other fees) or all-wheel drive ($33,932.50). The mid-grade Sport ($36,832.50) stands out with a more dynamic appearance, black accents and a muffler that is not hidden behind the rear bumper.

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Then there’s the top-line EX-L Navi ($40,032.50), which comes with all the latest gadgets and amenities such as a WiFi hotspot, wireless smartphone charger and Sirius XM radio. This is the one we’re going to review here.

Straightforward Cabin

The HR-V's interior is by no means dazzling, but it does appeal for its simplicity and smart ergonomics. The centre console has a drive mode switch, while the HVAC controls come in the form of three large rotary knobs. Other vehicle functions are mostly accessed and operated via the 9-inch touchscreen (7 inches in LX or Sport trim). The infotainment system is straightforward, requiring little time to get used to.

Facing the driver, the instrument panel seamlessly combines an analog speedometer with a digital display. The latter is easy to use and provides a wide range of information (fuel consumption, all-wheel drive status, music, etc.) which can be accessed through buttons on the steering wheel.

We have one complaint to make about the audio system, which could use better tuning. You see, even with eight speakers (four in the LX, six in the Sport), rear-seat passengers don't get to enjoy full audio power, and that's after adjusting front-to-rear fade. Obviously, it’s no deal-breaker, just a minor irritant.

It’s a shame the latest HR-V scrapped its predecessor’s oh-so practical Magic Seat, which offered the ability to flip the seat bottoms up to store large items in the rear when the trunk was already full. There are now 691 litres of cargo room behind the rear seat instead of 657 litres, mind you. On the other hand, you get a total of just 1,559 litres with the seatbacks down whereas the original HR-V could pack up to 1,665 litres. Incidentally, towing is not recommended.

Where’s the Hybrid?

Let’s face it, the Honda HR-V won’t set your pulse racing, just like many other small crossovers out there—except for some high-end models equipped with larger or turbocharged engines. It’s about hauling occupants comfortably first and foremost. The spacious interior and well-designed seats are great for long trips, although the front passenger’s seat lacks height adjustment, even in top trim.

On the road, the HR-V offers predictable handling but is a little sensitive to crosswinds. With 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivers decent performance in daily commutes. A tad more oomph would be quite appreciated, since you have to rev the engine up beyond 4,500 rpm—and endure the noise that comes with it—in order to feel a real thrust. At least the continuously variable transmission is quick to respond.

As mentioned earlier, the base LX model comes standard with front-wheel drive but can also be specified with all-wheel drive. Natural Resources Canada rates combined fuel consumption at 8.3 L/100 km or 8.7 L/100 km, respectively, and our AWD-equipped EX-L Navi tester managed to achieve the lower figure. Too bad a hybrid powertrain is missing in the HR-V lineup. However, with Honda’s electrified portfolio continuing to expand, most recently with the return of the Civic Hybrid, it's probably just a matter of time before the HR-V follows suit.

Safe and Reliable

The HR-V shares its safe and rigid architecture with the latest Civic and last year earned a Top Safety Pick+ award—the highest possible distinction—from the U.S. Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) after a comprehensive round of collision testing. The only direct competitors that can say the same are the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30.

Reliability is another strong attribute of the HR-V. In fact, the little Honda ranks among the most reliable crossovers in the segment, using time-tested powertrain components and having experienced few problems over the years. Two minor safety recalls have been announced by Transport Canada since the launch of the second generation.

Enfin, si la facture du petit VUS est en hausse et demeure dans la plus haute moyenne de la catégorie, elle s’avère justifiable en raison de sa durabilité. Il s’agit sans l’ombre d’un doute un véhicule compétent et rationnel, même s’il n’intègre pas le top 3 du palmarès du Guide de l’auto. Il pourrait peut-être détrôner ses concurrents l’an prochain, à condition que Honda commercialise une déclinaison électrifiée de son VUS sous-compact.