The 2024 Honda HRV has been generating buzz in the compact SUV segment, and as a recent owner of the EX-L trim in Nordic Forest, I’m excited to share my firsthand experience. Coming fresh from Mexico, my HRV is primarily intended to provide comfortable and easy transportation for a loved one who uses a wheelchair and finds getting in and out of standard vehicles challenging. The HRV has proven to be exceptionally well-suited for this purpose, offering a ride height that allows for effortless sliding in and out with minimal assistance. Beyond its practical advantages, I’ve found the HRV to be genuinely enjoyable to drive, boasting surprisingly smooth handling.
For those considering the Honda HRV, I want to offer my insights, emphasizing that for its price point, this vehicle delivers exceptional value, particularly when considering its driving dynamics, projected reliability, and strong resale value.
What I Love About the Honda HRV
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Exceptional Ride and Handling: The standout feature of the HRV is undoubtedly its ride quality and handling. It delivers a level of smoothness and composure that belies its compact size and price tag. The vehicle absorbs bumps and road imperfections with remarkable ease, feeling more akin to a larger, more expensive SUV. You truly need to experience it firsthand to fully appreciate how well it handles diverse road conditions.
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Adequate Power and Smooth Drivetrain: While not a performance vehicle, the 2.0-liter engine provides more than sufficient power for daily driving. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) operates seamlessly, contributing to the smooth driving experience. For everyday commuting and errands, the HRV has plenty of pep. It’s important to remember this isn’t designed for racing, but for reliable and comfortable transportation.
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Proven and Reliable Engine Design: The 2.0-liter engine is a testament to Honda’s engineering philosophy of prioritizing reliability. This engine is based on a well-established design, avoiding complex features like stop-start systems, direct injection (opting for Multi-Point Injection – MPI), or cylinder deactivation (DOD). This simpler, proven technology suggests long-term durability and reduced maintenance concerns, a significant plus for peace of mind.
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Refined Interior and User-Friendly Technology: The interior design is aesthetically pleasing and functional. The electronics package is intuitive, and the radio sound quality is perfectly satisfactory for everyday listening. The doors close with a reassuringly solid “thunk,” suggesting good build quality and body rigidity.
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Comfortable and Spacious Cabin: Both front and rear passengers will find ample space in the HRV. Legroom and headroom are generous, even in the back seats, making it comfortable for adults. The seats themselves are supportive and well-shaped for longer journeys.
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Practical Size and Features: The HRV’s dimensions are ideal for urban environments. It fits easily into garages – a key consideration for me as a CR-V would have been too large. The included backup camera and sensors are effective, simplifying parking and maneuvering. Small but appreciated features like the wireless phone charger (which, surprisingly, works with my iPhone 14 in an Otterbox case) and wireless CarPlay enhance convenience. The wireless CarPlay is particularly valuable as the HRV does not have built-in navigation, making smartphone integration seamless.
Areas Where the HRV Could Improve
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CVT Transmission Characteristics: While the CVT is generally smooth, it’s worth noting that it lacks a launch gear, unlike some Toyota CVTs. This means that when accelerating aggressively from a complete stop, there can be a momentary hesitation or “bogging” sensation. For drivers who prioritize rapid 0-60 mph times, this might be noticeable. However, in normal driving conditions, a gentle start followed by progressively increasing throttle input avoids this issue. Once underway, the HRV accelerates smoothly and responsively. This CVT behavior is typical of many vehicles equipped with this type of transmission and contributes to fuel efficiency and long-term reliability.
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Road Noise on Rough Surfaces: As expected for a vehicle in this price category, road noise is present, particularly on coarse pavement. While not excessive, it’s more noticeable than in higher-priced vehicles. However, compared to some competitors in the past, like a 2014 RAV4 I owned, the HRV’s noise levels are acceptable.
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Limited Rear Passenger Amenities: The rear passenger area is somewhat basic in terms of features. It lacks power outlets, dedicated AC vents, and a center armrest. The cupholders in the door panels are also quite small. For a top-trim model like the EX-L, the inclusion of at least some of these features would enhance rear passenger comfort. It’s an interesting contrast that grab handles are provided in the back, but not these more commonly desired amenities.
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Missing Features: Several minor features are absent, such as an eyeglass holder, which is a convenient addition found in some competitors like the Hyundai Elantra. The console box and glove box are also not illuminated and lack power outlets. Perhaps the most surprising omission is the lack of a temperature gauge. While perhaps becoming less common, a temperature gauge provides drivers with valuable information about engine health. There is also no 12-volt cigarette-type outlet in the front cabin, although one is available in the rear cargo area.
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Low-Quality Oil Dipstick: The most significant disappointment in terms of perceived quality is the oil dipstick. Its construction is surprisingly flimsy, featuring a plastic handle and a pressed-on plastic tip for the measurement area. This design feels less durable than a traditional, all-metal dipstick and can be difficult to read, especially when the oil is clean. The lack of texture or markings on the plastic tip to enhance oil visibility makes checking the oil level less straightforward than it should be.
Overall Verdict
Despite these minor drawbacks, my overall impression of the 2024 Honda HRV EX-L is overwhelmingly positive. It’s crucial to consider the vehicle’s price point when evaluating its features and shortcomings. For my needs – primarily comfortable and accessible transportation, combined with enjoyable driving dynamics and Honda’s reputation for reliability – the HRV is an excellent choice. The driving experience is genuinely enjoyable, and the Civic platform underpinning the HRV is well-engineered and refined. Many of the mentioned shortcomings are likely addressed in the larger and more expensive CR-V, reinforcing the principle that you generally get what you pay for.
I strongly encourage anyone considering a compact SUV to test drive the Honda HRV. Experiencing its ride and handling firsthand is the best way to determine if it meets your needs and preferences. Online reviews, including my own, provide valuable perspectives, but a personal test drive is essential before making a purchase decision. The 2024 Honda HRV offers a compelling blend of practicality, comfort, and value that makes it a standout contender in its class.
