The 2022 Honda HR-V is a subcompact SUV that’s small in size but big on utility, with few in the class matching its cargo versatility. Credit goes to the roomy 24.3 cubic feet of space behind the HR-V’s split-folding rear seatback, and to what Honda calls its “Magic Seat” system.
No, this doesn’t involve a degree from Hogwarts or adorable bunnies popping out of top hats – but that would be fun.
The Magic Seat system allows an HR-V owner to fold down the second-row backrest, or flip the second row’s bottom cushion up or down. This is perfect for times when you’re traveling lighter in terms of passenger count, yet need extra space for bulky objects like bikes and strollers.
The HR-V is available in four main trims: LX, Sport, EX, and EX-L. Of these, the EX is the most popular and represents a solid blend of comfort and tech touches, safety features, and overall value. To understand what makes the HR-V EX a crowd pleaser, let’s explore what comes standard, plus a few options that make this pint-sized Honda SUV an accommodating traveling companion.
- Honda HR-V EX (FWD): $25,070
- All-wheel drive (AWD): $1,500
- 18-inch machine-finished alloy wheels: $2,555
- Premium paint color: $395
Considering most shoppers won’t be interested in spending $2,500 on wheels and tires for their $25,000 subcompact SUV, we’re really looking at just under $27,000 for a loaded HR-V. Let’s take a look at what that includes.
Available AWD
A handful of the HR-V’s key rivals don’t offer all-wheel drive (AWD) even as an option. Adding AWD to the HR-V EX costs an additional $1,500, which is about average in this market segment. If you need the added grip, the price is worth the extra outlay. Yet for SUV shoppers living in mild climates, it could be smart to save that cash and enjoy the better mileage provided by the HR-V in front-drive format.
7-Inch Infotainment System
While the HR-V EX doesn’t exactly offer the last word in cutting-edge cabin tech, having a 7-inch touchscreen with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a big win. This is also a notable upgrade from the puny 5-inch screen fitted to the base HR-V LX. Satellite radio, HD radio, two front USB ports, Bluetooth, and a 6-speaker stereo are also included on the EX trim.
Added cabin comfort
Honda HR-V shoppers aren’t expecting fine leather seating surfaces and wood grain finish on the dashboard, of course. But the EX does raise cabin comfort levels in several key ways. First, heated seats are standard, as is dual-zone automatic climate control. To further brighten things up, quite literally, a power-operated moonroof also comes along for the ride in the HR-V EX.
Magic Seat system
We’ve already sung its praises, but it’s worth repeating. The Honda Magic Seat system offers added cargo flexibility that you won’t find in many small SUVs. Being able to flip the second row’s bottom cushion up against the seatbacks is a neat trick that no other subcompact SUV can perform.
Honda Sensing safety features
The HR-V EX is where the Honda Sensing suite of safety items becomes standard equipment. This is important for car shoppers who want the added peace of mind that comes with having features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, road departure mitigation, blind-spot monitoring, automatic high-beam headlights, and adaptive cruise control. A rearview camera is also included.
More about the 2022 Honda HR-V
Build and price your own 2022 Honda HR-V to see this week’s Fair Purchase Price, 5-Year Cost to Own, and more, or see CR-V models for sale near you.
