2024 Honda HR-V e:HEV L: Quick Review

The introduction of the third-generation Honda HR-V in 2021 made quite a splash in the compact SUV category.

Its redesign marked a fresh start for the Japanese automaker as they aimed to recapture lost market share following their transition to an agency model and a gradual decline in best-seller rankings.

As the smallest member of Honda's SUV lineup, the compact HR-V occupies a position below the recently launched midsize ZR-V SUV and the larger, recently updated CR-V.

Given the growing popularity of this segment, it's intriguing to see whether the HR-V can continue to impress in Australia, just as it did upon its initial launch.

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Pricing and features

The Honda HR-V is available in two variants, a highly specced petrol or hybrid offering, respectively named the Vi X or e:HEV L.

In alignment with Honda's strategy to sell fewer, feature-full vehicles, the Vi X offers plenty of standard spec as more of a premium offering.

Operating under an agency model means that Honda pricing is standard across all dealerships. And in the case of the e:HEV L it has an asking price of $47,000 drive-away.

The hybrid engine produces a combined output of 96kW and 253Nm, with a fuel consumption sitting at just 4.3L/100km, or a saving of 1.5L from the petrol Vi X (which is about $10,000 less).

However the hybrid HR-V does pack in significantly more spec.

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The infotainment system, with its 9-inch touchscreen and Wireless Apple CarPlay, offers simple and easy connectivity.

A missing wireless charger feels like an omission on this model, considering the feature is available on other Honda models.

The single-grade hybrid HR-V includes:

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The complete HR-V lineup offers a selection of five colours, all of which come at no additional cost:

• Premium Opal
• Platinum White
• Crystal Black
• Premium Crystal Red
• Meteoroid Grey

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Safety

The HR-V came close but fell slightly short of achieving a full-star rating, ultimately scoring four stars in the independent ANCAP testing.

During these evaluations, the HR-V received an 82% score for adult occupant protection and a 77% score for child occupant protection.

Standard safety features encompass front, side, and curtain airbags, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and a reversing camera.

Additional safety features beyond these are only available in this hybrid variant. It adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

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Key rivals

The small SUV segment in Australia is booming, with many key competitors offering hybrid or mild-hybrid options:

• Mazda CX-30 hybrid (from $36,610*)
• Hyundai Kona (from $36,000*)
• Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (from $36,480*)

*before on-road costs

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Should I put it on my shortlist?

The 2024 Honda HR-V e:HEV L is an aesthetically appealing compact SUV.

Thanks to fixed pricing nationwide via their new agency model, there's no necessity for bargaining or haggling.

The hybrid offering rivals top-spec key competitors, so there isn't currently an entry-level hybrid offering. But to understand the price is to see all the extra spec that Honda has added.

If you're seeking an economical hassle-free and stylish small SUV for daily use, the HR-V could be an excellent choice for you.