The 2018 Honda HR-V lasts around 250,000 miles with some minor rearview camera and A/C system issues reported. At $18,990 to $24,950, it’s a great value if you’re looking for a compact SUV that combines practicality with the ability to easily fit in large crowded cities.
Is the 2018 Honda HR-V a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Honda HR-V since it has excellent reliability and a practical cabin. Owner reviews praise the affordable running costs, spacious rear seats, and the optional all-wheel drive system.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are fairly basic, the seats are more comfortable than some other small SUVs, cargo space is a little limited in the back.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread problems found on the 2018 HR-V. Models from 2016 are known to have some electrical issues, while 2017–2022 are dependable.
- Performance 6/10 – The four-cylinder engine found in the HR-V is relatively weak, although it’s more focused on efficiency rather than making power.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2018 HR-V is a safe SUV, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while blind spot monitoring is available as an optional upgrade.
- Gas Mileage 9/10 – Fuel economy is great, at up to 29 MPG, giving 382 miles of range from the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $23 cheaper than average at $164 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2018 Honda HR-V is more affordable than other compact SUVs on the market with low depreciation rates, helping it be a great value for shoppers.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Honda HR-V?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Honda HR-V combines all the right stuff for affordable practical transportation, with good owner satisfaction scores as it ages.
- Edmunds rates the HR-V at 3.7/5, enjoying the excellent cargo solutions, but doesn’t like the fairly weak engine.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the HR-V a 4.2/5, praising the excellent interior room for a small SUV, but owners don’t like the poor off-road performance.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Honda HR-V Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Honda HR-V include the backup camera not working, weak flow from the A/C system, along with rodents chewing on the soy-based wiring. Overall, these problems are less severe than some other compact SUVs on the market, leading to lower repair bills as the HR-V ages.
The backup camera not working is the most widespread complaint on the 2018 Honda HR-V, showing up within the first 2,000 miles. Usually, the problem is just a software issue with the screen, and an update fixes it. Most dealerships will install the software update for free, while some charge around $50 for the labor cost.
Weak flow from the A/C system is another problem mentioned by some HR-V owners at around 10,000 miles. There are several sources for the problem, but it’s likely a blend door issue. Clearing a stuck blend-door is pretty easy, costing around $150 for the labor. There’s also a chance of a blower motor failure, which costs around $400 to replace.
Rodents chewing on the soy-based wiring in the engine compartment has also been reported within the first 20,000 miles. If you have to park your HR-V outside overnight, then we recommend using an ultrasonic device with a strobe light to help deter rodents from climbing into your engine compartment.
There are two recalls on the 2018 Honda HR-V, which is better than some other compact SUVs from the same year. The most serious recall covers the fuel pump, which may fail, causing the engine to stall. Honda will replace the fuel pump on affected models for free. The other recall covers the coating on the rear brake caliper pistons, which Honda will fix by re-bleeding the brakes for free.
How Long Will the 2018 Honda HR-V Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Honda HR-V can last around 250,000 miles, which is only slightly shorter than the long-lasting Toyota RAV4. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than many other small SUVs, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $268 per year.
As a used 2018 HR-V reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the camshaft position sensor for $175, fuel tank pressure sensor costing $225, along with the A/C refrigerant line which costs $550.
The trunk does not have a cover since it is a hatchback. I would like an internal cover so people could not see what is in my car.
It does not have any problems. Very reliable in the rain and snow. It is a great vehicle for long distance trips.
Totally reliable. Have not had an issue in almost two years owning this car. Contrary to review of cabin noise, I find this a quiet riding car.
As of now, we have not encountered any problems with our vehicle. If there were to be an issue, the internal computer is quick to give us a code to let us know what the issue is. Both my husband and myself commute long distances for work and we rotate who gets to drive the HR-V and so far so good.
It is reliable. I have not experienced problems with it and it serves me well. Hondas are typically low maintenance vehicles.
It is reliable. For some reason, though, you can't open the trunk from the driver’s seat. You have to get out of the car to open it. It’s a bit annoying. Also, I'm not sure if it’s just my car, but the trunk is hard to open. I have to try about three times to open it.
The voice control quality is bad, it doesn't understand your voice so it’s best if you pick your speed dial list and use the controls on the steering wheel to call someone.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is good for a small SUV, offering a standard 5-inch central display screen with Bluetooth. Optional upgrades include a larger 7-inch touchscreen along with a more powerful stereo system.
Standard safety features are basic, only offering a rearview camera. Available upgrades only include Honda LaneWatch, which is a blind-spot camera system.
Is the 2018 Honda HR-V a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Honda HR-V is a good value if you’re looking for a small SUV with some nice features and Honda’s legendary reliability. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $18,990 to $24,950, making it less than a Subaru Forester or Mazda CX-5. When new, the price range was $19,670 to $26,540. Depreciation is better than some other SUVs, only losing about 4% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Honda HR-V?
There are three main models of the Honda HR-V offered, from the entry-level LX to the more well-equipped EX-L Navi. The HR-V comes standard with front-wheel drive, while all-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.
LX is the entry-level model which has:
- 17-inch wheels
- Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- Height-adjustable driver seat
- 60/40-split folding rear seat with Honda’s Magic Seat feature
- 5-inch central display screen
- Rearview camera
- Bluetooth
- Four-speaker sound system
- CD player
- USB port
EX is a step up, adding:
- All the features of the LX, plus:
- Sunroof
- Rear privacy glass
- Automatic headlights
- Fog lights
- Heated mirrors
- Keyless entry and ignition
- Heated front seats
- Automatic climate control
- Dynamic guidelines for the rearview camera
- Passenger-side blind-spot camera (Honda’s LaneWatch)
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- Six-speaker sound system
- An additional USB port
- HondaLink smartphone apps and integration
EX-L Navi is the flagship model with:
- All the features of the EX, plus:
- Roof rails
- Leather upholstery
- Navigation system with voice recognition
- Auto-dimming rearview mirror
- Satellite and HD radio
What Engines Come In the Honda HR-V?
The 2018 Honda HR-V comes with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 141 horsepower at up to 29 MPG. The engine is mated to either a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), or a six-speed manual transmission. Regarding acceleration, the HR-V takes about 9.3 seconds to reach 0-60 mph, offering a steady yet relaxed driving performance.
What Colors Does the Honda HR-V Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Honda HR-V?
The 2018 Honda HR-V stands out as a compact SUV with a commendable level of comfort. The ride quality is typically smooth, and the vehicle does a good job of absorbing most road imperfections. The seats are designed to be supportive and comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. This can contribute to a more relaxed and less fatiguing driving experience, especially on long trips.
Noise levels in the HR-V are also well controlled. Engine and wind noise are muted, making for a serene driving environment. The HR-V’s climate control system is efficient and keeps the cabin temperature comfortable, regardless of outside weather conditions.
As for the interior, the HR-V uses high-quality materials throughout the cabin, adding a touch of luxury and further enhancing the comfort level. The layout of the controls is intuitive and within easy reach of the driver, contributing to a more comfortable and stress-free driving experience.
How Much Storage Space Does the Honda HR-V Have?
The 2018 Honda HR-V is well-regarded for its considerable cargo capacity and versatility. With all seats in place, the HR-V offers around 24.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second-row seats. This ample space is enough to accommodate the weekly grocery haul for a family, several suitcases for a weekend getaway, or even a small piece of furniture.
However, the HR-V truly shines when you take advantage of its “Magic Seat” system, which allows the rear seats to be folded flat. With the second-row seats folded, the cargo capacity expands to an impressive 58.8 cubic feet. This increased space can easily fit larger items such as bicycles, flat-pack furniture, or even a surfboard.
There’s also a versatile tall mode that involves folding the second-row seat cushions upward, creating about four feet of vertical space from floor to ceiling. This is particularly handy for transporting tall items that need to stay upright, like a small bookcase or a house plant.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Honda HR-V was launched for the 2016 model year as a new compact SUV model from Honda.
2016: First model year for the Honda HR-V, which is designed to be a sportier and more fun version of the popular CR-V.
2017: Remains unchanged from the launch last year.
2018: No changes from earlier years.
2019: New front and rear bumper changes, Sport and Touring models introduced, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added, along with Honda Sensing Suite safety technology.
2020: No major changes from earlier years.
2021: Tinted rear glass is standard on the Sport model
How Does the Honda HR-V Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Honda HR-V is a great small SUV for shoppers on a budget that are looking for reliability, low ownership costs and decent practicality.
The Toyota RAV4 is another small SUV which costs around $4,000 more. Safety technology is better in the Toyota RAV4, while the Honda HR-V offers lower long-term costs. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since you get a lot more features for your money, but both are excellent SUVs for the 2018 model year.
The Subaru Crosstrek is a competitor which can be found for around $3,500 more. Off-road performance and handling is better in the Subaru Crosstrek, while the Honda HR-V offers a smoother ride on city streets. We recommend the Honda HR-V if you live in a city, while the Subaru Crosstrek is better if you’ll be spending more time outdoors and on dirt roads.
Do Owners Recommend the Honda HR-V?
Yes. It is small and easy to park with. The cameras are an added benefit. Sits five people comfortably. Has seat warmers and can connect your phone via Bluetooth.
Yes, it is a great reliable vehicle. It has been very good in the snow. It heats up well and the seats heat up very quickly.
It is a good solid vehicle. I just wish there was more storage across the front seats and I'd like a button to open the hatch.
I love my HR-V. From the outside, the car seems a little small, but the interior is very spacious. My husband and I were looking for a SUV type vehicle with decent gas mileage and the HR-V fit the bill.
Yes, it is reliable and safe. It is small but large enough for four passengers and cargo. It drives well on the street and on the highway. The gas mileage is good.
Yes, it is a good drive and roomy. It gets good mileage. I get gas about every two weeks. The only big con for me is that this model does not have CarPlay.
Yes the car has a smooth ride, the heating and cooling system works well and it’s spacious. It has multiple outlets.