Choosing the right Honda HR-V model year can make or break your compact SUV adventure. In this guide, we’ll explore the HR-V’s evolution, highlighting the excellent models and duds in its lineup.
We’ve analyzed data from reliable sources like NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and J.D. Power to give you a precise picture of the HR-V’s performance over the years.
You’ll get the inside scoop on engine upgrades, technological advancements, reliability scores, frequent issues, and resale values.
Ready to discover which Honda HR-V years excel and which to avoid?
Let’s plunge in and find your ideal HR-V!
Table of ContentsShow
Honda HR-V Generations
The Honda HR-V burst onto the compact SUV scene in 2015 with its second generation, quickly winning hearts with its ingenious design and practicality. The standout “Magic Seat” system lets you play Tetris with your cargo space, while economical engines and a well-appointed interior make it a champ for both city errands and highway cruising.
Here’s a concise look at the Honda HR-V generations from 2016 to now: **First Generation (2016-2022)** – **Design**: Compact crossover with a coupe-like profile – **Engine**: 1.8L 4-cylinder (141 hp) – **Transmission**: CVT or 6-speed manual – **Features**: Honda Sensing safety suite, versatile interior with Magic Seats – **Fuel Economy**: Around 28-34 mpg – **Notable**: Great cargo space for its size, reliable but underpowered **Second Generation (2023-present)** – **Design**: More mature and refined styling – **Engine**: 2.0L 4-cylinder (158 hp) – **Transmission**: CVT only – **Features**: Updated Honda Sensing, improved infotainment, better materials – **Fuel Economy**: Around 26-32 mpg – **Notable**: More power, enhanced ride quality, but lost manual transmission option **Key Changes**: The newer generation offers more power, superior interior quality, and updated technology, but sacrificed some fuel efficiency and the manual transmission.
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 2nd generation (RU) | 2016-2022 |
| 3rd generation (RZ) | 2023-Present |
Knowing these generational shifts is crucial to picking the HR-V that fits you like a glove. Each generation brings its own flavor to the table, so let’s break it down further.
Honda HR-V Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
When it comes to ranking the Honda HR-V’s model years, we leave no stone unturned. Our ratings factor in:
- What owners are saying (straight from the horse’s mouth)
- How much you’ll shell out for annual maintenance
- Safety ratings (because who doesn’t want a safe ride?)
- Consumer Reports’ reliability and satisfaction scores
- NHTSA’s recalls, investigations, and complaint reports
- Ratings from Edmunds, JD Power, Kelley Blue Book, VehicleHistory, and Cars.com
We’ve crunched all these figures into one convenient graph for you:
Now, let’s categorize these years into the best and worst:
| Generation | Best Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation (RU) | 2017 2020 2021 2022 | 2016 2018 2019 |
| 3rd generation (RZ) | 2024 | 2023 |
Keep in mind, things like NHTSA recalls can significantly impact a year’s rating. More complaints and recalls typically suggest a more challenging ownership experience.
Ready to plunge into the specifics of each generation’s remarkable and problematic years?
Let’s go!
Best & Worst Years for Honda HR-V 2nd Generation (2016-2022)
The second-gen Honda HR-V took everything outstanding about its predecessor and cranked it up a notch. It’s the Swiss Army knife of small SUVs – versatile, effective, and comfortable.
In this generation, 2017 and 2020-2022 are the peak years. But watch out for 2016, 2018, and 2019 – they’re the problematic of the bunch.
The Best Years: 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022
Looking for the finest of the best in the second-gen HR-V? Set your focus on 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022.
These models pack a 1.8L I4 engine that pumps out 141 horses, paired with a smooth CVT. You’ll be zipping around town and cruising highways while sipping fuel at an impressive 28 city/34 highway MPG.
Tech-wise, these years saw some notable upgrades. Later models got Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so your phone and car can play nice together. Safety got a boost too, with Honda Sensing tech bringing features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance to the mix.
Reliability? Check. Fewer mechanical problems? You got it. Satisfied customers? In spades. That’s why these years are the all-stars of this generation.
The Worst Years: 2016, 2018, 2019
Now for the years you might want to skip: 2016, 2018, and 2019. These HR-Vs had a few too many defects in the works.
The 2016 model was like that initial pancake – a bit of a mess. Electrical gremlins, powertrain peculiarities, and brake troubles were the order of the day. Owners grumbled about start/stop buttons playing dead, instrument clusters going wild, paint peeling faster than a sunburned tourist, and CVTs with an identity crisis. Oh, and let’s not forget the recall for brake calipers that were a bit too smooth for their own good.
2018 and 2019 didn’t quite shake off the family curse. They kept up the tradition of erratic instrument clusters and brake dramas. Recalls rolled in for camera displays that went AWOL, fuel pumps that decided to quit, and those same treacherous brake calipers.
These issues, plus the recall conga line, make these years the dark sheep of the HR-V clan. Buyer beware!
Want the scoop on these recent recalls?
Check out the NHTSA reports for 2016, 2018, and 2019 HR-Vs.
Best & Worst Years for Honda HR-V 3rd Generation (2023-Present)
The third-gen HR-V hit the scene with a modern look, enhanced performance, and tech that’ll make your inner geek squeal. It’s aiming to be the leading dog of compact SUVs.
In this fresh kid on the block, 2024 is shaping up to be the leading student, while 2023 is still working out some novice jitters.
The Best Years: 2024
The 2024 HR-V is turning heads and winning hearts. J.D. Power and Consumer Reports are giving it approval, and owners are singing its praises.
Under the hood, you’ll find a more powerful 2.0L I4 engine that kicks out 158 hp. Paired with a CVT that’s smoother than a jazz saxophone solo, it delivers a drive that’s both quick and efficient. Fuel economy takes a slight hit at 26 city/32 highway MPG, but the extra oomph makes up for it.
Safety? The 2024 HR-V’s got your back with Honda Sensing as standard. We’re talking collision mitigation that’s quicker than your reflexes, road departure mitigation that keeps you between the lines, and adaptive cruise control for those long highway hauls.
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an infotainment system that’s actually, well, entertaining. Larger screens, enhanced connectivity – it’s like your smartphone and car had a beautiful tech baby.
The interior? It’s had a makeover that’ll make you want to live in your vehicle. Okay, maybe not truly, but you get the idea.
In short, the 2024 HR-V is the compact SUV that’s all sophisticated and ready to impress.
The Worst Years: 2023
Now, about that 2023 model. It’s not all doom and despair, but it did encounter a few obstacles out of the gate.
Some owners reported rear windshields doing their best glass confetti imitation for no apparent reason. Not exactly the kind of unexpected celebration you want on the highway.
Then there were the steering shenanigans. “Sticky steering” became a thing, and not in a favorable way. It’s like the wheel was trying to play hard to get – not perfect when you’re, you know, attempting to drive.
Oh, and let’s not forget the recall for seat belt pre-tensioners that were a bit too relaxed about their job. Safety first, folks!
Curious about the comprehensive recall rundown?
The NHTSA’s got all the juicy details on the 2023 HR-V’s early problems.
Honda HR-V Resale Values
Wondering how well your HR-V will retain its value? Check out this chart showing typical resale values across different model years:
Conclusion
So, which Honda HR-V should you set your sights on? If you’re searching for reliability and features that’ll make your neighbors jealous, aim for the 2017, 2020-2022, or 2024 models. They’re the cream of the crop.
On the flip side, you might want to think twice about the 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2023 models. They’ve got more issues than a reality TV show cast.
Now, we’re curious – what features get your engine revving when it comes to small SUVs like the HR-V? Is it all about that fuel efficiency, or are you more of a technology enthusiast?
Drop your thoughts in the comments below!
