Choosing the right compact SUV can be challenging, especially when comparing models within the same brand. If you’re considering Honda, the CR-V and HR-V are likely on your radar. Both offer the reliability and practicality Honda is known for, but they cater to different needs and preferences. This detailed comparison will help you understand the key differences between the Honda CR-V and Honda HR-V to determine which SUV best fits your lifestyle.
Honda CR-V vs. HR-V: Quick Comparison
| Feature | 2025 Honda HR-V | 2025 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Size | More Compact | Larger |
| Maneuverability | Excellent | Good |
| Cargo Space | Less | More |
| Starting Price | Lower MSRP | Higher MSRP |
| Fuel Economy | Slightly Less Efficient (Gas Only) | More Efficient (Hybrid Available) |
| Powertrain | 4-Cylinder | 4-Cylinder, Hybrid Option Available |
| Towing | Not Recommended | Up to 1,500 lbs |
| Safety Rating | IIHS Top Safety Pick+ | IIHS Top Safety Pick |
The Honda HR-V prioritizes city-friendly maneuverability and affordability, while the Honda CR-V offers more space, power, and advanced features, including a hybrid powertrain. Let’s delve deeper into each aspect to clarify your choice.
Dimensions and Practicality: CR-V Offers More Space
The most noticeable difference between the Honda CR-V and HR-V is their size. The HR-V is designed to be more compact, making it exceptionally easy to navigate crowded city streets and fit into tight parking spaces. The CR-V, while still a compact SUV, is larger, providing significantly more interior space, particularly for cargo.
| Dimension | 2025 Honda HR-V | 2025 Honda CR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Length (inches) | 179.8 | 184.8 |
| Width (inches) | 72.4 | 73.5 |
| Height (inches) | 63.4 | 66.2 – 66.5 |
| Turning Diameter (feet) | 35.1 | 37.3 |
| Front Headroom (inches) | 39.4 | 38.2 – 40.0 |
| Rear Headroom (inches) | 38.0 | 38.2 |
| Front Legroom (inches) | 41.9 | 41.3 |
| Rear Legroom (inches) | 37.7 | 41.0 |
| Cargo Space (behind rear seats, cu ft) | 24.5 | 34.7 – 39.3 |
| Cargo Space (rear seats folded, cu ft) | 55.1 | 76.5 |
As the table shows, the Honda HR-V boasts slightly more front legroom, which might be beneficial for taller drivers. However, the Honda CR-V compensates with significantly more rear legroom and substantially greater cargo capacity. If you frequently carry passengers in the back or need ample cargo space for luggage, groceries, or gear, the CR-V is the clear winner. The HR-V is better suited for individuals or small families who prioritize ease of parking and city driving.
Alt text: Honda CR-V versus Honda HR-V size comparison, highlighting the difference in overall dimensions and wheelbase between the two compact SUV models.
Performance and Fuel Efficiency: CR-V Offers Hybrid Advantage
Both the Honda CR-V and HR-V are powered by four-cylinder engines, but the CR-V provides more power and an optional hybrid powertrain for enhanced fuel efficiency.
The Honda HR-V comes with a 2.0-liter inline-four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower. It provides adequate power for daily driving and achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined in FWD configuration.
The Honda CR-V offers two powertrain choices. The standard engine is a more powerful 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four-cylinder producing 190 horsepower. This engine delivers an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined with FWD. Furthermore, the CR-V offers a hybrid powertrain that combines a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, resulting in 204 total system horsepower and an impressive EPA-estimated 40 MPG combined.
| Feature | 2025 Honda HR-V | 2025 Honda CR-V (Gas) | 2025 Honda CR-V (Hybrid) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0-Liter Inline-4 | 1.5-Liter Turbo Inline-4 | 2.0-Liter Inline-4 Hybrid |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 190 hp | 204 hp (Net System) |
| EPA Combined MPG (FWD) | 28 MPG | 30 MPG | 40 MPG |
| Towing Capacity | Not Recommended | 1,500 lbs | 1,500 lbs |
If performance and fuel economy are top priorities, the Honda CR-V, especially the hybrid version, has a clear advantage. The CR-V also offers a towing capacity of up to 1,500 pounds, which is not available with the HR-V, adding another layer of versatility.
Alt text: Side-by-side comparison of Honda CR-V and Honda HR-V safety features, emphasizing advanced driver-assistance systems and structural safety elements.
Safety and Features: Both Prioritize Safety, HR-V Gets Top Award
Honda prioritizes safety across its lineup, and both the CR-V and HR-V are well-equipped with safety features. Both models include the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance technologies as standard, featuring:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™)
- Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR)
While both SUVs are recognized for their safety, the Honda HR-V earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for 2024, a higher distinction than the CR-V’s IIHS Top Safety Pick. This indicates the HR-V provides slightly enhanced occupant protection in crash tests. However, both are exceptionally safe choices for families and individuals.
Conclusion: Tailoring Your Choice to Your Needs
Choosing between the Honda CR-V and HR-V comes down to your individual needs and priorities.
Choose the Honda HR-V if you prioritize:
- Lower Price: The HR-V has a more accessible starting price.
- City Maneuverability: Its smaller size makes it ideal for urban environments and tight parking.
- Slightly More Front Legroom: Offers a bit more space for taller drivers in the front.
- Top-Tier Safety Rating: Boasts an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
Choose the Honda CR-V if you prioritize:
- More Cargo Space: Offers significantly greater cargo capacity for luggage and gear.
- More Rear Passenger Space: Provides considerably more legroom for rear occupants.
- Greater Power: More powerful standard engine and available hybrid option.
- Better Fuel Efficiency (Hybrid): Hybrid model delivers exceptional MPG.
- Towing Capability: Can tow up to 1,500 pounds.
Ultimately, both the Honda CR-V and HR-V are excellent compact SUVs. Visit your local Honda dealer to test drive both models and experience their differences firsthand to make the best decision for your needs.
FAQ: Honda CR-V vs. HR-V
How does the HR-V compare in size to the CR-V?
The Honda HR-V is smaller than the Honda CR-V in all exterior dimensions. This translates to less cargo space and rear passenger room in the HR-V, but greater maneuverability for city driving and parking.
What are the fuel economy differences between the 2025 Honda CR-V and HR-V?
The Honda HR-V achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined with its standard gasoline engine and FWD. The gasoline-powered Honda CR-V gets an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined with FWD, while the CR-V Hybrid achieves a significantly higher 40 MPG combined.
Is the Honda CR-V or HR-V safer?
Both SUVs are very safe and equipped with Honda Sensing safety features. However, the Honda HR-V received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for 2024, while the CR-V received the IIHS Top Safety Pick, indicating a slightly higher safety rating for the HR-V.
Can the Honda HR-V tow?
No, the Honda HR-V is not recommended for towing. The Honda CR-V, however, can tow up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Discover More About The New Honda CR-V & Honda HR-V
| New Honda HR-V For Sale | New Honda CR-V For Sale | New Honda HR-V Lease Deals |
|---|---|---|
| New Honda CR-V Lease Deals | All Honda Model Research |
1Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit www.iihs.org
3Based on 2025 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
