The New 2023 Honda HR-V
If you’re shopping online for a crossover SUV, the new 2023 Honda HR-V should be at the top of your list. Not only does this particular Honda come in three fully-featured trims, but it also comes with a solid line-up of add-ons, comforts, and technology upgrades. The only question is: which trim style do you prefer because each one is slightly different? Let’s start with a general overview before comparing the three available trims.
General overview
The 2023 Honda HR-V isn’t a full-sized SUV. It’s a crossover model that gives you many of the same design elements you usually find in an SUV but in a smaller car. Think of it as the middle ground when you can’t decide between full-sized sedans and SUVs. The notable standard features in all trims include hill-descent controls, three driving modes, and an option for Honda’s new Real Time AWD (all-wheel drive) with Intelligent Control System.
Engine specs
Under the hood, the new 2023 Honda HR-V includes an inline 4-cylinder motor capable of reaching 158 horsepower, an average but decent specification for a vehicle this size. No matter which trims you ultimately test drive, each one will still come with the same 16-valve DOHC VTEC dual variable-timing valve train and the exact transmission specifications, so the consistency will make the trims easier to compare on the road.
Honda Sensing safety technology
The active safety features are also impressive and include Honda Sensing technologies, a collection of bells and whistles exclusive to this particular manufacturer. Honda Sensing bundles together technologies like a Forward Collision Warning, a Lane Departure Warning, a Collision Mitigation Braking System, and a Road Departure Mitigation System too! You get all of those benefits in the new 2023 Honda HR-V, an excellent value for a vehicle this size.
Interior and exterior features
Size-wise, the interior and exterior dimensions are the same between the three trims, so the most significant differences are in the design accents, badging, and technology inside the cabin. The premium trims may include larger wheels, HD audio systems, and slightly different color schemes to add a touch of style. But all three trims come in the same dimensions; the differences between the trims are primarily in the interior cabin, with the premium trims bundled with more extras.
Available in three different trims – LX, Sport, and EX-L
Now that we’ve gone over the general features and specs let’s get into what makes each trim unique. That way, you’ll have a much easier time selecting the proper trim when you speak with a Honda dealership near you like Patriot Honda.
LX
Think of the LX trim as the base model, but you’re not sacrificing quality. In fact, the LX Honda HR-V already comes with everything you need for a smooth, comfortable ride with decent mileage. The core features remain with the LX trim, so you don’t necessarily have to upgrade to the premium trims for certain capabilities. The Honda Sensing system is a great example because it’s arguably this vehicle’s most significant selling point.
The differences between the LX and the other trims start in the interior cabin because the LX includes fewer technology integrations, which is perfectly fine. After all, not every driver will use the high-tech bells and whistles like the Bluetooth HandsFreeLink integration or HondaLink service, another exclusive system available through this manufacturer. But if you feel like you may need those extras, the Sport trim may be the better choice.
LX Standout features:
- 4-speaker 180-watt audio system
- 17-inch silver painted alloy wheels
- Honda Sensing driver-assistive technology
Now, let’s compare the LX trim with the Sport trim to see what makes it distinct.
Sport
The name of this trim fits perfectly because the Sport version of the 2023 Honda HR-V resembles a “sporty” sedan but stays within the crossover class, a really nice touch this year. You still get the same Honda Sensing system and HondaLink; however, the Sport adds a Blind Spot Information System with Cross-traffic Monitor and remote engine start. Aside from those add-ons, the Sport is very similar to the LX but differs on the exterior and interior.
For instance, the heated, power side mirrors come in gloss black with integrated turn indicators; they’re only body-colored on the LX. Likewise, the rear roofline spoiler and lug nuts also come in gloss black. You also get 18-inch gloss black alloy wheels instead of the silver painted wheels on the LX. But the most dramatic difference is the Sport Grille – a nice touch exclusive to the Sport trim.
On the inside, the Sport trim comes with heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a shift knob for a more comfortable feel. The audio system has six speakers and can pump out 180 watts of sound, but the interface is still a 7-inch color touch screen, just like the LX. Altogether, these features make the Sport trim the more stylish choice since it has more curb appeal and tech inside.
Sport standout features:
- Blind Spot Information System with Cross-traffic Monitor
- Remote engine start
- Exclusive exterior and interior design accents
Now, let’s go over the more luxurious, premium trim: the EX-L.
EX-L
The EX-L is for you if you’re in the market for something at the top of the line. You get everything that comes with the LX, Sports trim, and more. Low-speed braking control, a One-touch Moonroof with a tilt feature, and front and rear parking sensors are just the beginning. You also have the luxury of a Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control System, an automatic-dimming rearview mirror, and soft ambient LED lighting.
But on the interior, you don’t have a 7-inch touchscreen. This trim features a larger 9-inch display with smart shortcuts and customizable settings. Additionally, the EX-L comes with an 8-speaker audio system, an HD radio, and a wireless phone charger. So, the EX-L would be the better option if you like more tech in your vehicles.
EX-L standout features:
- One-touch Moonroof
- Dual-zone Automatic Climate Control System
- 9-inch customizable touchscreen
As you can see, the EX-L is the best choice when you don’t mind paying extra for added convenience.
Test drive the new 2023 Honda HR-V today
Are you ready to see how the new 2023 Honda HR-V feels on the road? Stop by Patriot Honda today, and go for a test drive with one of our reps. Without a doubt, this Honda is a solid choice when you’re looking for quality in a 2023 crossover. If you’re interested in more of Honda’s top models, be sure to check out our research hub!