When manufacturers first started selling sub-compact SUVs in the US, it seemed as if they didn’t take the segment seriously or perhaps simply misread the market. With high-style, low-utility models like the Nissan Juke and Toyota C-HR, these cars were clearly targeted at young single buyers who valued looks and style over practicality. The Buick Encore at least seemed like a genuine effort, but it fell short of what people expected from the Buick brand. Fortunately, useful and livable small cars are somewhat of a Honda specialty.
This particular Michael Hohl Honda post focuses on the HR-V Sport, which is positioned in the middle of the lineup and starts around $28,000. Adding AWD increases the price by $1,500, offering a solid balance of what most people want and need while remaining under $30,000.
Honda had already sold a generation of the HR-V in other markets before bringing the second generation to the US. With coupe-like styling that went so far as to hide the rear door handles in the C-pillars, the HR-V wasn’t without its nod to the youth market. Buyers also found a practical vehicle with ample cabin space for its size, an unexpectedly attractive interior, and Honda’s typical attention to detail. The second generation for the US, launched in 2023, was based on the original owners and what they wanted more of. Therefore, the second-generation HR-V for the US market evolved from the Fit to the Civic platform, adopting more wagon-like proportions to serve as a small family vehicle.
With a 2.0-liter inline-4 producing 158 horsepower and paired with a continuously variable transmission, it ranks around the middle in the category for power, with EPA MPG estimates of 26 city / 32 highway / 28 combined*. There are three drive modes: Snow, Econ, and Normal. Snow mode keeps the engine revs low to prevent slipping. Econ smooths out minor acceleration adjustments and uses less power from the air conditioning. Sport mode is essentially the S selection on the transmission. Compared to D, which optimizes the CVT for the most efficient RPM, S allows the engine to rev higher upon acceleration for quicker response.
While it falls short of the Corolla Cross (Toyota’s modest follow-up to the C-HR) in drivetrain specs, it completely reverses the scene when it comes to space. The HR-V offers 123.1 cubic feet of interior space compared to the Corolla Cross’s 118.9. However, the real story is in the back seat, where the HR-V provides 37.7 inches of rear legroom—just shy of half a foot more than the Toyota. You can fit full-size adults in the rear without feeling the least bit guilty about it. Even with a cabin that favors rear passengers, the HR-V offers 24.4 cubic feet of cargo space, compared to the Toyota’s 24.0. That gap is likely to grow with the rear seatbacks folded, where the HR-V offers 55.1 cubic feet, whereas the Corolla Cross…well, actually, Toyota doesn’t provide that number.
The dash of the HR-V continues the tradition of being surprisingly nice and dispels any notion that this is Honda’s entry-level model. The hexagonal grid conceals the center and passenger-side vents while providing an elegant look. The 9-inch center screen is bright, user-friendly, and supports wireless mirroring from smartphones. The cloth seats are attractive and more inviting than competitors' faux-leather options, and in the Sport trim, they even come with three heating levels.
You can upgrade to a fancier trim. The EX-L offers leather, a sunroof, a premium audio system, dual-zone climate control (the Sport has only one zone), ambient lighting, and other creature comforts at just over $30,000.
What you get with any HR-V is a reliable small crossover that suits a variety of life stages, from single individuals and newlyweds to small families and beyond. It comes with a touch of style, plus Honda’s reputation for competence and dependability. It’s a vehicle that shouldn’t be overlooked by those focused on value and long-term ownership. If that describes you or someone you know, take a closer look at the HR-V from Michael Hohl Honda.
*Fuel-economy ratings: 26 city/32 highway/28 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 25 city/30 highway/27 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.
