Choosing the right Honda HR-V model year can make or break your compact SUV experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the HR-V’s evolution, highlighting the standouts and duds in its lineup.
We’ve analyzed data from trusted sources like NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and J.D. Power to give you an accurate picture of the HR-V’s performance over the years.
You’ll get the inside scoop on engine upgrades, tech innovations, reliability scores, frequent issues, and resale values.
Ready to uncover which Honda HR-V years excel and which to avoid?
Let’s jump in and find your perfect 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 clever design and practicality. The standout “Magic Seat” system lets you play Tetris with your cargo space, while efficient engines and a well-appointed interior make it a champ for both city errands and highway cruising.
Here’s a quick look at the Honda HR-V generations from 2016 to now:
| 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 numbers into one handy graph for you:
Now, let’s sort 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 considerably impact a year’s rating. More complaints and recalls usually point to a tougher ownership experience.
Ready to dive into the details of each generation’s standout 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 great about its predecessor and cranked it up a notch. It’s the Swiss Army knife of compact SUVs – versatile, efficient, and comfy.
In this generation, 2017 and 2020-2022 are the golden years. But watch out for 2016, 2018, and 2019 – they’re the troublemakers of the bunch.
The Best Years: 2017, 2020, 2021, 2022
Looking for the cream of the crop in the second-gen HR-V? Set your sights on 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2022.
These models pack a 1.8L I4 engine that pumps out 141 horses, paired with a smooth-as-butter CVT. You’ll be zipping around town and cruising highways while sipping fuel at a thrifty 28 city/34 highway MPG.
Tech-wise, these years saw some nifty 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 goodies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist to the party.
Reliability? Check. Fewer mechanical problems? You got it. Content 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 glitches in the works.
The 2016 model was like that first pancake – a bit of a mess. Electrical gremlins, powertrain peculiarities, and brake bothers were the order of the day. Owners grumbled about start/stop buttons playing dead, instrument clusters going haywire, 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 slick for their own good.
2018 and 2019 didn’t quite shake off the family curse. They kept up the tradition of unpredictable instrument clusters and brake dramas. Recalls rolled in for camera displays that went AWOL, fuel pumps that decided to quit, and those same slippery brake calipers.
These issues, plus the recall conga line, make these years the black sheep of the HR-V family. Buyer beware!
Want the nitty-gritty on these 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 fresh look, beefed-up performance, and tech that’ll make your inner geek squeal. It’s aiming to be the valedictorian of compact SUVs.
In this new kid on the block, 2024 is shaping up to be the star pupil, while 2023 is still working out some freshman jitters.
The Best Years: 2024
The 2024 HR-V is turning heads and winning hearts. J.D. Power and Consumer Reports are giving it a thumbs up, and owners are singing its praises.
Under the hood, you’ll find a peppier 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 zippy and efficient. Fuel economy takes a small 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, amusing. Larger screens, better connectivity – it’s like your smartphone and car had a beautiful tech baby.
The interior? It’s had a glow-up that’ll make you want to live in your car. Okay, maybe not literally, but you get the idea.
In short, the 2024 HR-V is the compact SUV that’s all mature and ready to dazzle.
The Worst Years: 2023
Now, about that 2023 model. It’s not all doom and gloom, but it did hit a few speed bumps out of the gate.
Some owners reported rear windshields doing their best glass confetti impression for no obvious reason. Not exactly the kind of unexpected party you want on the highway.
Then there were the steering shenanigans. “Sticky steering” became a thing, and not in a good way. It’s like the wheel was trying to play hard to get – not ideal when you’re, you know, trying to drive.
Oh, and let’s not forget the recall for seat belt pre-tensioners that were a bit too laid-back about their job. Safety first, folks!
Inquisitive about the complete recall rundown?
The NHTSA’s got all the spicy details on the 2023 HR-V’s teething problems.
Honda HR-V Resale Values
Wondering how well your HR-V will maintain its value? Check out this graph showing average resale values across different model years:
Conclusion
So, which Honda HR-V should you set your sights on? If you’re hunting 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 quirks than a reality TV show cast.
Now, we’re curious – what features get your engine revving when it comes to compact SUVs like the HR-V? Is it all about that fuel economy, or are you more of a tech enthusiast?
Drop your notions in the comments below!
