2023 Honda HR-V AWD EX-L - Review by Mark Fulmer

A Most Practical MidCompact SUV

Mark Fulmer
Executive Producer, Editor
THE AUTO CHANNEL

Should you read other reviews of this new HR-V, you'll read about it being somewhat under-powered, but I take exception to that. There are plenty of drivers who could care less about 0-60 numbers and whose priorities include reliability, practicality, and cost effectiveness. The 2023 HR-V AWD EX-L has a very good, quiet ride (the quiet is helped via active noise reduction tech similar to headsets), a good looking and useful interior, and a reasonable fuel economy and sticker price.

The 2 liter inline 4 gas engine puts out 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The continuously variable-speed automatic transmission yields a range of 350-420 miles with a mixed mpg of 27. Both in-town and freeway driving is a solid, well balanced nimble feel, with responsive, precise steering and brakes that respond strong or soft depending on need.

The interior design has a clean refined style that is both easy on the eyes and, of course quite practical. The very adjustable leather front seats provide a relaxed support with good ergonomics and very good visibility.

Front Seat Dimensions
Front head room 38.4 in.
Front leg room 41.9 in.
Front shoulder room 56.6 in.
Front hip room 54.0 in.

The 9 inch touchscreen has a volume knob and shortcut buttons. The EX-L trim level gets wireless charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Voice commands for navigation and audio do a nice job of letting you stay focused on the unpredictable nature of traffic these days.

Passenger space is superior - even the lanky teenagers with overstuffed backpacks appreciated the roominess - and any time you hear teenage appreciation it's unforgettable.

Rear Seat Dimensions
Rear head room 38.0 in.
Rear leg room 37.7 in.
Rear shoulder room 55.2 in.
Rear hip room 47.4 in.

In terms of cargo space, there is 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space.

Active safety systems include:

Blind spot and lane departure warnings
Accident avoidance system
Pre-collision safety system
Post-collision safety system
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Stability control
Traction control
4-wheel ABS
Emergency braking assist
Tire pressure monitoring
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Engine immobilizer

This new HR-V will give you stability in bad weather, moderate off road capabilty, and that renown reliability that Honda has been designing for decades.