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:

18-inch alloy wheelsHands-free power tailgate
7-inch digital driver displayKeyless entry and push button start
9-inch touchscreenLeather accented seats
Ambient lightingLED headlights
Auto dimming rear view mirrorsRain sensing wipers
Auto retractable door mirrorsRear cross traffic alert
Blind spot monitoringRear privacy glass
Dual zone climate controlSix speaker sound system
Front LED fog lightsWireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto
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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.