Buyer's Guide

HR-V Buyer's Guide

The 2027 HR-V pairs a 158-hp 2.0L four-cylinder with 55.1 cu ft of cargo room and 28 mpg combined in FWD trim, making it a sensible, if unexciting, subcompact SUV pick.

Our RecommendationWorth a Look

Overall Score8.3/10Based on our evaluation

28 mpg combinedFWD trims; AWD drops to 27 mpg combined
55.1 cu ft cargoSame volume across every trim
158 hp / 138 lb-ftIdentical 2.0L I-4 and CVT on every trim

Best ForCity/commuter drivingSmall families needing cargo roomBuyers who want AWD without a price jump

Who This Vehicle Is For (and Isn't)

Perfect For

City and suburban commuters
26 mpg city and a tight footprint make the HR-V easy to park and cheap to run on daily routes.
Cargo-conscious small-family shoppers
55.1 cu ft of cargo space is generous for the subcompact class and doesn't shrink on any trim.
Buyers who want AWD as an option, not a requirement
AWD is available on every trim level — LX, Sport, and EX-L — so you're not forced into a single AWD-only trim.

Not Ideal For

Hybrid or efficiency maximalists
There's no hybrid HR-V in this lineup — every configuration runs the same gasoline 2.0L engine.
Drivers who want quicker acceleration
158 hp is modest for the class; this isn't the pick for anyone cross-shopping on power.
Buyers needing more interior space
Cargo volume is solid for a subcompact, but families outgrowing a small SUV should look at a larger class.

Which Trim Should You Buy?

Budget Choice

LX FWD

$26,600*Starting MSRP

The cheapest way into an HR-V with the exact same 158-hp engine, CVT, and 28 mpg combined rating as pricier trims.

Lowest MSRP in the lineup
28 mpg combined
Same cargo room as every other trim

View LX FWD

Best Value

Sport FWD

$28,400*Starting MSRP

A modest step up from LX FWD buys sportier styling and more equipment without giving up the FWD model's 28 mpg combined efficiency.

28 mpg combined, best in the lineup
Sport-trim styling upgrades
Same 158-hp powertrain as every trim

View Sport FWD

Most Recommended

Sport AWD

$29,900*Starting MSRP

Adds all-wheel-drive traction to the Sport's features for buyers who want foul-weather confidence.

All Wheel Drive for year-round traction
27 mpg combined
Sport trim equipment and styling

View Sport AWD

Premium Pick

EX-L AWD

$31,950*Starting MSRP

The most-equipped HR-V available, pairing AWD with the EX-L's top feature set — the pick if you want the nicest cabin and don't mind paying the lineup's highest MSRP, though it's not the value play.

Top trim with EX-L feature set
All Wheel Drive standard
27 mpg combined

View EX-L AWD

*MSRP excludes destination charge.

Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

28 mpg combined on FWD trims is strong for a subcompact SUV
55.1 cu ft of cargo space holds steady across every trim, including the base LX FWD
AWD is offered on LX, Sport, and EX-L, so buyers aren't forced to upgrade trims for traction
Consistent 158-hp, 138 lb-ft powertrain means no trim feels like a compromise mechanically
EX-L trims add leather and upscale features without changing the drivetrain

Weaknesses

No hybrid configuration is offered in this lineup
158 hp is modest next to peppier subcompact rivals
Choosing AWD (27 vs 28 MPG Combined)
Every trim uses the same CVT, so there's no sportier transmission option

Ownership Expectations

Fuel Economy28 mpg combined (FWD) / 27 mpg combined (AWD)Among the better figures in the subcompact SUV class
MaintenanceAverage for the classSimple naturally aspirated four-cylinder, no hybrid components to service
InsuranceAverage for the classSubcompact SUV rates are typically moderate
DepreciationAverage to better than averageHonda resale values tend to hold up well

Get Invoice Price on a new HRV

Start your negotiation knowing what the dealer paid

Get Invoice Price

Vehicle	Choose It If…
Mazda CX-30	You prioritize a more engaging driving feel over outright cargo space.
Hyundai Kona	You want more powertrain variety, including options beyond a standard gas four-cylinder.
Kia Seltos	You want more standard tech and warranty coverage at a similar price point.
Buick Envista	You want a quieter, more value-oriented cabin experience without needing AWD.
Nissan Kicks	Budget is the top priority and you don't need an AWD option.

Bottom Line

The HR-V is a safe, efficient, no-drama subcompact SUV pick if you don't need hybrid power or strong acceleration.

Buy Now If

You want dependable fuel economy, flexible cargo space, and the option of AWD without jumping to a separate trim tier.

Wait If

You're hoping for a hybrid HR-V variant, which isn't offered in this lineup.

Consider Alternatives If

Driving engagement or extra horsepower matters more to you than efficiency and cargo consistency.

Continue your research

HR-V Buyer's Guide