The Honda HR-V, a subcompact crossover SUV, has carved a niche for itself with its fuel efficiency, practicality, and Honda's renowned reliability. However, not all HR-V model years are created equal. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the best and worst years for the Honda HR-V, empowering you to make an informed decision when purchasing a used or new vehicle.
Honda HR-V Model Year Overview
| Model Year | Key Features & Highlights | Potential Issues & Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | First generation debut, Magic Seat functionality, fuel efficient engine, available all-wheel drive. | Some reports of transmission issues (CVT), infotainment system glitches, noisy cabin. |
| 2017 | Minor improvements over 2016, continued Magic Seat feature. | CarComplaints.com reports similar issues to 2016 (transmission, infotainment). |
| 2018 | Minor improvements, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added on higher trims. | Similar issues reported as previous years, but frequency may be slightly lower. |
| 2019 | Styling refresh (new grille, bumpers), Honda Sensing suite of safety features available. | Reports of excessive oil consumption in some engines, infotainment system lag. |
| 2020 | Minor changes, continued availability of Honda Sensing. | Similar oil consumption reports as 2019, potential battery drain issues. |
| 2021 | Final year of the first generation, essentially unchanged from 2020. | Similar issues as 2019 and 2020. |
| 2023 | Second-generation debut, larger size, more powerful engine, updated interior and technology. | Some reports of infotainment system glitches, long wait times for parts in some regions. |
| 2024 | Carryover model from 2023, minor updates expected. | Early to tell, but potential for similar infotainment glitches as 2023. |
Detailed Explanations
2016: This was the inaugural year for the first-generation HR-V, introducing the model to the North American market. It boasted Honda’s signature “Magic Seat” configuration, allowing for versatile cargo space, and was powered by a fuel-efficient 1.8-liter engine. However, as a first-year model, it experienced some typical teething problems, notably related to the CVT transmission and the infotainment system.
2017: The 2017 HR-V was largely a carryover model from 2016, with minimal changes. The Magic Seat feature continued to be a selling point. While Honda addressed some minor issues from the previous year, the underlying problems with the CVT transmission and infotainment system persisted, making it a year to consider with caution.
2018: A slight improvement over the earlier models, the 2018 HR-V saw the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on higher trim levels, enhancing the user experience. While the core issues from previous years were still present, anecdotal evidence suggests their frequency might have been slightly reduced.
2019: This year marked a significant styling refresh for the HR-V, with a new grille and redesigned bumpers giving it a more modern appearance. The availability of the Honda Sensing suite of safety features (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, etc.) was a major selling point. However, a new issue emerged: reports of excessive oil consumption in some engines, which is a serious concern.
2020: The 2020 HR-V received only minor changes, continuing the trend of the refreshed 2019 model. The Honda Sensing package remained available. Unfortunately, the oil consumption issues reported in 2019 continued, and some owners reported battery drain issues.
2021: This was the final year of the first-generation HR-V. It was essentially unchanged from the 2020 model, meaning it carried over the same potential issues, including oil consumption and battery drain. It's often considered a less desirable year due to its age and the availability of the redesigned 2023 model.
2023: The 2023 HR-V marked the debut of the second generation, representing a significant redesign. It was larger, featured a more powerful engine, and boasted an updated interior and technology. While generally well-received, some early adopters reported glitches with the infotainment system and experienced long wait times for parts in certain regions.
2024: The 2024 HR-V is largely a carryover model from 2023. While improvements are always possible, it's prudent to anticipate the potential for similar infotainment glitches as seen in the 2023 model. Time will tell if Honda has addressed these issues.
Specific Issues to Watch Out For
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CVT Transmission Problems (2016-2018): Some owners have reported issues with the continuously variable transmission (CVT) in these early models, including jerky acceleration, hesitation, and even complete failure. Look for vehicles with documented transmission servicing or extended warranties.
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Infotainment System Glitches (2016-2018, 2023-2024): The infotainment system in early models was often criticized for being slow, unresponsive, and prone to glitches. The redesigned system in the 2023 model has also seen reports of similar issues. Test the system thoroughly before purchasing.
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Excessive Oil Consumption (2019-2021): This is a significant concern. Check the oil level regularly and look for any signs of oil leaks or burning oil. A pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended.
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Battery Drain (2020-2021): Some owners have reported issues with the battery draining quickly, especially if the vehicle is not driven frequently.
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Long Wait Times for Parts (2023-2024): Due to supply chain issues, some owners have experienced extended delays when ordering replacement parts for the 2023 HR-V. This is something to consider, especially if you rely on your vehicle daily.
Best Years for Honda HR-V: The Recommendations
While each model year has its pros and cons, here's a breakdown of the recommended years, considering reliability, features, and value:
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Best Overall (First Generation): The 2018 HR-V strikes a good balance. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and seems to have slightly fewer reported issues than the earlier models. However, a thorough inspection is still crucial.
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Best Overall (Second Generation): The 2024 HR-V is the newest available model. While it is too early to determine long-term reliability, Honda likely made improvements from the first model year of the generation, 2023.
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Best for Safety: The 2019-2021 models with Honda Sensing offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, making them a good choice for those prioritizing safety. However, be mindful of the potential oil consumption issues.
Factors to Consider Before Buying
- Budget: Used HR-V prices vary significantly depending on the year, mileage, and condition. Set a realistic budget and stick to it.
- Needs: Consider your specific needs. Do you need all-wheel drive? Do you prioritize fuel efficiency or cargo space?
- Maintenance History: Always ask for the vehicle's maintenance history. A well-maintained HR-V is more likely to be reliable.
- Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have a trusted mechanic inspect the vehicle before you buy it. This can help you identify potential problems and avoid costly repairs down the road.
- Test Drive: Take the HR-V for a test drive to assess its performance and handling. Pay attention to any unusual noises or vibrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Honda HR-V year is the most reliable? The 2018 HR-V generally receives favorable reviews for reliability within the first generation, while it's too early to definitively say for the second generation, the 2024 model is likely improved upon the 2023 model.
Are Honda HR-Vs expensive to maintain? Honda HR-Vs are generally known for their relatively low maintenance costs, but proper upkeep is key to preventing major issues.
Is the Honda HR-V good in snow? HR-Vs equipped with all-wheel drive perform well in snowy conditions, providing enhanced traction and stability.
What is the gas mileage like on a Honda HR-V? The HR-V is known for its excellent fuel economy, typically achieving between 28-34 MPG combined depending on the model year and drivetrain.
Does the Honda HR-V have a lot of cargo space? The HR-V offers a surprisingly spacious cargo area for its size, especially the first-generation models with their Magic Seat configuration.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Honda HR-V involves careful consideration of model year, potential issues, and your individual needs. While the 2018 and 2024 models are generally considered good choices, a thorough inspection and understanding of potential problems are crucial for making an informed decision and enjoying your HR-V for years to come. Remember to prioritize a pre-purchase inspection and review the vehicle's maintenance history before committing to a purchase.