CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 5.0 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 34.5%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.2 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 360
Average Price: Around £16,000

Honda HR-V Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Clever Magic Seats in the rear	Small boot by class standards
Lots of standard equipment	Hybrid powertrain feels unresponsive
Low running costs	Cramped rear headroom

Quick Summary

The Honda HR-V is a sensible small hybrid SUV that sits between the smaller and larger models in Honda's SUV range. This third-generation model, launched in 2021 and lightly facelifted in 2024, offers a unique proposition as one of the few small SUVs available exclusively with a petrol-electric self-charging hybrid powertrain. It features Honda's ingenious Magic Seats with a clever 60:40 fold-down design and upward-flip capability, making it exceptionally practical for carrying bulky items. The cabin is solidly built with a sophisticated design, though some harder plastics appear where softer materials might be expected.

The HR-V is generously equipped across all trim levels, with even the entry-level Elegance featuring climate control, heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, and a 9.0-inch touchscreen with navigation and smartphone integration. The hybrid powertrain delivers 129bhp and achieves an official 52.3mpg, though performance is modest at 10.6 seconds for 0-62mph. Running costs are competitive, and all models are priced below £40,000, avoiding the expensive car supplement on road tax. However, the small 319-litre boot, cramped rear headroom, and unresponsive acceleration may deter some buyers seeking a more spacious or dynamic small SUV.

Best for: Buyers prioritising clever interior design, generous standard equipment, low running costs, and hybrid efficiency in a compact SUV package.

Not ideal for: Those needing maximum boot space, tall rear passengers, or drivers seeking responsive performance and engaging dynamics.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the HR-V if: You prioritise clever interior design, generous standard equipment, low running costs, and hybrid efficiency in a compact SUV package.

Consider alternatives if: You need maximum boot space, have tall rear passengers, or seek responsive performance and engaging driving dynamics.

Competitive Position: The Honda HR-V is a worthy contender in the small SUV market, offering excellent user satisfaction and competitive value. Whilst it trails the Volkswagen T-Roc in expert rating and the Nissan Juke and Toyota C-HR in deal availability, the HR-V's unique hybrid-only offering, ingenious Magic Seats, and comprehensive standard equipment make it an appealing choice for practical-minded buyers. However, its modest performance, small boot, and cramped rear headroom mean it's not the best all-rounder in the class, and buyers should carefully consider whether its strengths align with their priorities before committing.

Read our full Honda HR-V Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from July 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.