What are the prices for the Honda HR-V e:HEV?

2023 Honda HR-V Vi X: $36,700

2023 Honda HR-V e:HEV L: $47,000

All prices are drive-away

What’s under the bonnet? 

The 2023 Honda HR-V Vi X is equipped with a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder powerplant. This engine outputs 89kW of horsepower at 6600rpm and a torque of 145Nm at 4300rpm. Coupled with this power unit is a seamlessly smooth continuously variable transmission (CVT).

On the other hand, the e:HEV L variant integrates a 1.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid engine into its configuration. This model's total power output ranges between 96kW (4000-8000rpm) and a torque of 253Nm (0-3500rpm), all channelled through an e-CVT.

The 2023 Honda HR-V boasts impressive fuel efficiency, consuming just 5.8L/100km in the Vi X version and a mere 4.3L/100km in the e:HEV L hybrid model.

While we didn’t achieve quite that, we did see unban consumption as low as 4.5L/100km. An impressive result given I tended to put the boot in off the line at least before adopting a more satisfyingly efficient driving style.

Both models come equipped with a 40L fuel tank and operate optimally with 91RON regular unleaded fuel.

How does the Honda HR-V e:HEV drive? 

When it comes to on-road performance, the HR-V displays an eagerness to unleash its power. However, it might feel slightly underwhelming in high-demand situations such as overtaking. This might deter rural drivers, but urban commuters will seldom find the power inadequate.

The continuously variable transmission that pairs with the powertrain exhibits an impressive responsiveness to throttle adjustments and speed changes, without the typical noise or drone associated with CVTs.

The comfortable driving position offers commendable all-round visibility, an advantage when navigating through suburban environments. The light and precise steering in this compact SUV adds an element of fun, making it enjoyable to manoeuvre around corners and equally impressive when tackling winding roads.

Switching the drive mode to Sport (made easy by the tactile rocker switch) introduces an enhanced throttle response, indicated by a 'red' hue on the driver's display. This amplifies the thrill of driving a hybrid or EV, like the HR-V.

Although Sport mode allows for rapid acceleration from a standstill, Normal and Eco modes are not significantly lagging behind. With sufficient throttle application in any mode, the HR-V e:HEV's torque ensures you'll be off the mark quicker than most other vehicles.

Eco mode proves useful in congested city centres with speed restrictions as low as 30km/h, such as in Manly, located on Sydney's Northern Beaches. I frequently observed the petrol engine remaining inactive, a feature that also applies when navigating multi-storey car parks.

The HR-V e:HEV also incorporates various levels of brake regeneration. This feature, activated by selecting 'B' with the shifter and adjusted with the paddle shifters, doesn't enable one-pedal driving. However, it efficiently slows down the vehicle and hastens the battery charging process.

What is the Honda HR-V e:HEV like on the inside? 

The cabin of the 2023 Honda HR-V is not a complete replica of its sibling, the Civic, but it certainly includes high-quality elements that contribute to a pleasing ambience and an enjoyable driving experience.

The ergonomics of the HR-V are top-notch, and the craftsmanship and tactility of the switchgear and brightwork are beyond reproach. Honda has thoughtfully included textured dials and knobs for the climate control, as well as easily accessible controls for adjusting airflow.

But it's not only the intuitive ergonomics and switchgear that earn our admiration. The air-conditioning system is specially designed to circulate air subtly around the entire cabin, avoiding the direct and often uncomfortable blast of air.

This innovative approach, known as the 'Air Diffusion System', utilizes L-shaped vents at the top corners of the dashboard to create a gentle breeze-like effect as opposed to the standard direct ventilation. As someone who often struggles with finding the right balance, I found the HR-V's system to be refreshingly effortless to use.

Moreover, the HR-V showcases Honda's latest seating technology, featuring a mat-structure support system that replaces the previous spring layout. Despite lacking leather inserts in this top-spec model, the remarkable lower-back comfort and the avoidance of scalded legs on hot days are a welcome trade-off.

In terms of driving position, the HR-V outclasses most small SUVs. It even has a more 'medium SUV' feel due to the increased height of the newly-designed front seats and the vehicle's overall ride height of 195mm – exceeding even some larger SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 GXL Hybrid.

Despite the raised stature and seat mounts, the HR-V maintains a sporty, coupe-like aesthetic, accentuated by its reduced height. This compact SUV offers unparalleled visibility and all-round vision, facilitated by a flat bonnet and specially designed windows to maximize light intake. The steeply inclined rear tailgate also surprisingly does not compromise rear visibility.

The interior design is uncluttered, minimizing the use of hard plastics. The European-style, leather-wrapped steering wheel and the traditional shift lever are tactile and premium in feel. Each detail is thoughtfully crafted and damped, from the instrument stalks to the knobs and dials.

The HR-V debuts a new infotainment system, first seen in the current-generation Honda Civic in Australia. This user-friendly system, which features a simple home screen with large, easily visible tiles, makes navigating through its functions a breeze. The 9.0-inch touchscreen includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, or, if preferred, the system's own functionality like digital radio and native satellite navigation.

The display graphics are aesthetically pleasing and navigating through the various menu systems is smooth and intuitive.

Is the Honda HR-V e:HEV safe?

The HR-V has a four-star safety rating from ANCAP on the back of testing conducted in 2022.

Standard safety equipment includes:

Autonomous emergency braking

Lane-keep assist

Lane-departure warning

Road Departure Mitigation System

Adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow

Traffic sign recognition

Reversing camera with front and rear parking sensors

Front, front-side and curtain airbags

The e:HEV L also includes blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

How much does the Honda HR-V e:HEV cost to run? 

The HR-V benefits from a generous five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty, alongside an eight-year IMA battery module warranty exclusive to the hybrid model.

The first five scheduled maintenance services won't exceed $199 each. Regular service intervals are recommended every 12 months or after every 10,000km, depending on which comes first.

Yeecar’s Take on the Honda HR-V e:HEV

The 2023 Honda HR-V, without question, excels as a compact SUV. It offers ample space for passengers, boasts ingenious storage capabilities, and is cost-efficient. Its sleek design coupled with superior ergonomics and an impressive balance between ride comfort and handling agility, propels it towards the pinnacle of its segment.

Its cabin stands as one of the most inviting in the industry, despite not featuring leather upholstery. However, once you get accustomed to the superior comfort the seats offer, the absence of leather will barely be an afterthought.

For those who can overlook the four-seat configuration, the absence of a sunroof and a four-star safety rating (which may be a deal-breaker for some), they will find themselves owning one of the most delightfully adept and comprehensively kitted compact SUVs currently available.

However, the price tag is a sticking point. The HR-V's asking price of $47,000 (drive-away) may seem steep for a vehicle in this category. Unfortunately, we feel the value proposition and the level of equipment provided do not justify the cost.

If you've been out of touch with Honda recently, it would be worth your while to test drive this HR-V. Expect to be pleasantly surprised.