In the eyes of many people, Honda produces one of the best subcompact crossovers on the market. The 2019 Honda HR-V hits the mark in several important categories, including fuel efficiency and passenger room. You’ll also appreciate the 2019 model’s refreshed styling.
Let’s take a deeper dive to see why the new HR-V is held in such high regard.
Trims
- LX: $20,520
- Sport: $22,220
- EX: $23,720
- EX-L: $25,320
- Touring: $28,540
Performance Specs
Every new HR-V comes equipped with the same 1.8-liter, i-VTEC four-cylinder engine. It develops a total of 141 horsepower and 127 pound-feet of torque. While Honda decided to no longer offer the HR-V with a manual transmission, this shouldn’t be an issue for most buyers. An automatic CVT with variable gear ratios handles the task of transferring the available power.
In terms of overall performance, the 2019 Honda HR-V has enough get-up-and-go for the average driver. This crossover is more focused on fuel savings as opposed to delivering strong acceleration. Nevertheless, sharp handling makes the new HR-V a fun-to-drive commuter vehicle. When attempting to park in small spaces, you’ll greatly appreciate the SUV’s tight turning radius.
Although the Honda CR-V is not great for off-roading, it should deliver a solid performance in the snow. An optional all-wheel-drive system ensures better traction during inclement weather. However, the standard front-wheel-drive system will suit the needs of most people.
Fuel Economy
Above-average fuel economy helps makes the 2019 Honda HR-V an even more rewarding choice. Anticipate getting an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Opting for the AWD system lowers efficiency to 27 mpg in town and 31 mpg on the highway.
Entertainment Features
The base model comes loaded with just enough standard equipment. You’ll enjoy Bluetooth streaming audio, a 5.0-inch audio display screen, and a multi-angle backup camera. You can also take advantage of the crossover’s second-row Magic Seat, which flips up to maximize the available cargo space.
You’ll find a greater number of attractive features on the upper trims. This year, Honda has updated the HR-V’s 7.0-inch touchscreen interface with a new volume knob for easier use. Most importantly for smartphone users, the HR-V includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Meanwhile, music fans will get more enjoyment out of the upgraded 180-watt sound system. Satellite-linked navigation with voice recognition is found on the range-topping HR-V Touring.
Safety
Stamped with a five-star overall safety rating by the NHTSA, the 2019 Honda HR-V provides excellent impact protection. This is a major relief for the drivers who hold the responsibility of hauling around their loved ones.
For 2019, a greater number of driver-assist safety technologies come with the HR-V’s available Honda Sensing package. While Collision Mitigation Braking helps prevent a frontal impact, Road Departure Mitigation helps stop you from accidentally driving off the road. Other safety features found in Honda Sensing include lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control.
You can also take advantage of Honda’s available Lane Watch system. Upon activating your right turn signal, this feature displays live video of the passenger-side lane. It’s designed to eliminate the number of dangerous blind spots on the freeway.
Pros
A Compact Vehicle with Good Interior Room
Don’t judge the 2019 Honda HR-V by its compact design. It’s a great vehicle for families. There’s an impressive amount of legroom in the rear. An eight-way power driver seat is featured on the Touring trim, which enables you to experience even greater comfort.
Offers Affordability
If you don’t have a lot of money to spend, the 2019 Honda HR-V should get your attention. Aside from the crossover’s attractive MSRP, it’s also inexpensive to maintain. Strong fuel economy is yet another plus for the new HR-V.
Modern Exterior Styling
There are plenty of car shoppers who will enjoy the HR-V’s modern appearance. A bolder chrome grille insert highlights the crossover’s updated front fascia. Meanwhile, its rear fascia now looks a bit more refined.
While all the available trims are attractive, younger buyers may be drawn to the HR-V Sport. Honda decks it out with blacked-out exterior touches and a cool set of 18-inch alloy wheels.
Real-Time AWD System
Honda’s Real-Time AWD system is a great asset for folks living in snowy regions of the country. Available on every trim, this intelligent AWD system immediately responds to the changing road conditions. You’ll be able to ride with an extra degree of confidence.
Cons
Manual Transmission Has Been Discontinued
While the overwhelming majority of today’s drivers prefer an automatic transmission, there are others who can’t live without a traditional manual gearbox. Like so many other new vehicles, the 2019 Honda HR-V no longer offers a manual transmission.
Final Thoughts
The 2019 Honda HR-V shines in one of the market’s toughest segments. It’s an affordable family vehicle that doesn’t sacrifice a bit of quality.
Before you buy a new ride, be sure to first consider everything that the new HR-V brings to the table.
Grzegorz Czapski / Shutterstock
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