We expected a larger dose of changes for the 2021 Honda HR-V, but the situation with the COVID-19 pandemic postponed the redesign. Nevertheless, the subcompact crossover is still one of the most exciting small vehicles. For the upcoming season, fans will see only minor modifications and most of them are available for the Sport trim. Besides this one, there is also the LX as the entry version, Touring as the most luxurious, and EX and EX-L as the mid-range offer. Like the update for the 2021 season, we still hope to see the hybrid configuration.
The crossover is 170 inches long. The advantages of the subcompact vehicle are agility and exceptional fuel economy. On the other hand, the 2021 Honda HR-V will lack power. A single drivetrain will supply the crossover with energy. If 140 horsepower is not enough, you should look for a bigger vehicle. Still, 31 mpg combined might leave the HR-V as an option.
The crossover is the smallest vehicle in this segment. Honda is also about to bring back the Element, which can fit between the HR-V and CR-V. The subcompact class is not among the popular ones in the crossovers and SUVs tier, but there are enough buyers to keep it alive. Most owners are newbies and every-day commuters.
2021 Honda HR-V Packages: Sport, EX, Touring
The entry-level of the HR-V is the LX model and it is unchanged for the new season. The highlights of the base version are LED DRLs and 17-inch wheels. The company is paying a lot of attention to safety. A special camera with a multi-angle system improves visibility. Cabins of the subcompact class vehicles are not too spacious. But, Honda installs so-called Magic Seats with 60/40 split and fold options. The audio is pretty nice for the base version and Bluetooth is standard as well.
The infotainment is getting a boost on the Sport trim. A 7-inch touchscreen is big enough for this class of vehicles. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto also become available. Outside, you will recognize the 2021 Honda HR-V Sport by its roof rails and fog lights Also, for the new season, the package includes rear privacy glass and a fresh set of wheels.
The EX bundle is upgrading the safety with the Honda Sensing system. Other advanced technologies are also there, such as keyless start, satellite radio, or automatic climate control. The front seats are heated. The EX-L turns the upholstery into the leather. Seats and steering wheel are wrapped in this material. The Touring version comes with the AWD exclusively. The price jumps because of the navigation, power seats, LED fog lamps, and many other special upgrades.
Colors
There are four paintjobs available for the base trim level. If you want something else than neutral colors, then upgrades are required. Black, White, Silver, and Steel are choices you can make by purchasing the 2021 Honda HR-V LX. Blue, Red, and Orange are the options the Sport bundle is bringing, and the EX adds only Midnight Amethyst paint. All these lower trims are coming with the black cloth interior. The EX-L won’t change the palette of exterior colors, but the interior can become white (leather). This is the only trim where you can find a different color in the cabin.
2021 Honda HR-V Specs, Hybrid
The single engine choice is one of the downsides of the 2021 Honda HR-V. A 1.8-liter four-cylinder unit is efficient, returning 31 mpg combined. But, not too many buyers will be happy with 140 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque. Although small, the crossover can tow about 1,500 pounds. The power is being distributed through a continuously variable transmission, which is going to be replaced soon. The redesign will probably bring the new gearbox. Meanwhile, the CVT is sending power to the front wheels and leaves an AWD as the optional upgrade. The fuel economy drops from 34 mpg on the highway to 31 mpg if you are going with an all-wheel drive.
So, the fuel economy doesn’t need a boost so badly. But, the hybrid system could provide some additional miles. On the other hand, it is not so easy to do, since the configuration is going to add pounds, which will harm overall weight and efficiency on the other hand. The 2021 Honda HR-V Hybrid might be an update during next season. This drivetrain is not going to be available right at the launch.
2021 Honda HR-V Prices
Small changes are not going to increase the price of the 2021 Honda HR-V. It is still one of the most affordable crossovers with a price tag of $21,000. The Sport package is approximately $3,000 above that and LX is starting at $25,000. Leather upholstery the EX-L brings will cost you $1,500. Touring trim comes with AWD and leather, which will bring the MSRP close to $30,000.
