The 2021 Honda HR-V lasts around 250,000 miles with some relatively minor gauge cluster and sensor issues reported. At $21,974 to $28,998, it’s a good value for a practical small SUV.
Is the 2021 Honda HR-V a Good Used SUV?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2021 is a decent year for the Honda HR-V since it offers a lot of technology paired with a comfortable cabin. Owner reviews praise the low ownership costs, slow depreciation, along with the responsive steering.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 7/10 – Interior materials are similar to other affordable SUVs, the seats are comfortable on long trips, cargo space is also good for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems on the 2021 HR-V. Avoid models from 2016 since they have a lot of interior issues, while 2017–2022 are more reliable.
- Performance 6/10 – Performance is poor from the small four-cylinder engine which focuses more on efficiency rather than speed.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2021 HR-V is safe, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. It comes standard with a rearview camera, while adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, along with automatic emergency braking are all optional.
- Gas Mileage 9/10 – Fuel economy is great at up to 30 MPG, giving 396 miles of range from the 13.2 gallon tank. Gas costs are $21 lower than average at $194 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2021 Honda HR-V is cheaper than many other small SUVs, making it a decent value for shoppers on a budget.
What Do Critics Say About the Honda HR-V?
- Consumer Reports says the 2021 Honda HR-V offers a good alternative to some of the other small SUVs on the market with its unique design, and gets average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the HR-V at 4.1/5, praising the excellent fuel-economy for an SUV, but doesn’t like the difficult touchscreen.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the HR-V a 4.1/5, enjoying the spacious interior, but owners don’t like the relatively weak engine.
What Common Problems Does the 2021 Honda HR-V Have?
Common problems found on the 2021 Honda HR-V include a gauge cluster issue, a loss of power, along with the stereo system freezing while being used. Overall, these problems are similar to some other small SUVs on the market, leading to average repair bills as it ages.
A gauge cluster issue is the most widespread complaint on the 2021 Honda HR-V in the first 5,000 miles. There’s usually a loss in gauge output paired with a check engine light. There’s a software update for the main ECU which fixes the problem. Most dealers will install this update for free, while some charge around $50.
A loss of power, while accelerating, has also been reported on some 2021 HR-V models at around 40,000 miles. Usually, the problem is caused by a loose or damaged oxygen sensor on the exhaust. Often you will need to use an OBD-II scan tool to find the source of the problem in the computer. From there, new sensors cost around $150.
The stereo system freezing while being used also shows up on some HR-V models at around 1,000 miles. There are stereo system software updates available which improve the reliability of the touchscreen system. Most dealers will install these updates for free, while others charge around $50.
There’s only one recall on the 2021 Honda HR-V, which is better than other small SUVs. The recall covers the rearview camera, which may not display. Honda will update the software on the touchscreen for free on affected models.
How Long Will the 2021 Honda HR-V Last?
A well-maintained 2021 Honda HR-V can last around 250,000 miles, which is 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 $301 per year.
As a used 2021 HR-V reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the spark plugs for $275, the alternator costing $600, along with the axle shaft which costs $700.
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is average, offering a relatively small 5-inch touchscreen standard on the entry-level model. The Sport and higher models all come with a larger 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
Standard safety technology is basic, only offering a rearview camera.
Optional safety features are part of the Honda Sensing suite, which is standard on EX and higher models, and includes:
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane departure warning
- Adaptive cruise control
- Honda LaneWatch blind spot camera
- Forward collision warning
- Road departure mitigation
- Lane keep assist
- Automatic high-beam headlights
Is the 2021 Honda HR-V a Good Value?
Yes, the 2021 Honda HR-V is a decent value since it’s reliable while offering a decent amount of practicality. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $21,974 to $28,998, making it less than a Honda CR-V or Mazda CX-5. When new, the price range was $21,200 to $29,340. Depreciation is slow, only losing about 2% of its current value in modern market conditions. In normal market conditions we expect it to lose about 10% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Honda HR-V?
There are four models of the 2021 Honda HR-V available from the base LX all the way through to the more luxurious EX-L. 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 with:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Upholstery
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- 5-Inch Touchscreen
- One USB Port
Sport is a step up, adding:
- 18-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Fog Lights
- Roof Rails
- Paddle Shifters
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- Gloss Black Exterior Trim
- 7-Inch Touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
EX is next in the lineup, which adds:
- Keyless Entry and Ignition
- Blind-Spot monitoring
- Sunroof
- Heated Front Seats
- Satellite Radio
- Honda Sensing Safety Suite
EX-L is the flagship model which comes with:
- Leather Seats
- Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
- Premium 180-Watt Stereo System
What Engines Come In the Honda HR-V?
The 2021 Honda HR-V is powered by a single engine option across all trims. It comes with a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower at up to 30 MPG. This engine is paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Performance is poor, taking 9.5 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Honda HR-V Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Honda HR-V?
The 2021 Honda HR-V offers a comfortable and pleasant driving experience for both the driver and passengers. Its well-designed cabin provides ample headroom and legroom for occupants, providing a relaxed and enjoyable ride. The HR-V’s seats are supportive and cozy, designed to accommodate passengers of various sizes. Additionally, the higher trims feature heated front seats for an added layer of comfort during colder months.
Regarding ride quality, the HR-V delivers a smooth and composed performance on most surfaces, thanks to its well-tuned suspension system. The cabin remains relatively quiet, even at highway speeds, with minimal road and wind noise intrusion. The vehicle’s steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces or in heavy traffic conditions.
How Much Storage Space Does the Honda HR-V Have?
The 2021 Honda HR-V is a versatile and compact SUV that offers ample storage space for its size. It boasts a total cargo capacity of 58.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down, which makes it quite competitive within its segment. With the rear seats in place, the HR-V still provides a respectable 24.3 cubic feet of space, suitable for everyday use.
One of the key features of the HR-V is the innovative Magic Seat system, which allows for various configurations to maximize storage options. The Magic Seats can fold flat or flip up, accommodating taller items such as bicycles or small pieces of furniture. In addition to this, the HR-V can easily fit several suitcases or bags for a weekend getaway, or carry a week’s worth of groceries for a family.
Furthermore, the Honda HR-V’s thoughtful design includes numerous storage compartments throughout the cabin, providing practical spaces for smaller items such as cell phones, wallets, and beverages. Overall, the 2021 Honda HR-V is a great option for individuals or small families who need a flexible and spacious vehicle for their daily adventures.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The first generation of the Honda HR-V was introduced for the 2016 model year.
2016: First model year for the Honda HR-V, which is a sportier version of the popular CR-V.
2017: Some small interior material changes.
2018: No changes from previous model years.
2019: Minor exterior styling changes, new Sport and Touring models, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto added.
2020: No major changes from earlier years.
2021: Standard tinted rear glass on the Sport model.
How Does the Honda HR-V Compare to the Competition?
The Honda HR-V is a nice compact SUV which appeals to some shoppers since it’s sportier looking than many of the other crossovers on the market, while still offering good reliability.
The Toyota RAV4 is another small SUV which costs around $4,000 more. Passenger room is a bit better in the Toyota RAV4, while the Honda HR-V handles better on winding roads. We recommend the Toyota RAV4 since it’s more practical, although both are decent SUVs.
The Nissan Rogue is a popular competitor which is available in the same price range. Standard technology is better in the Nissan Rogue, while ownership costs are lower on the Honda HR-V. We recommend the Honda HR-V since there are fewer problems reported, although both are reasonably good choices for shoppers.
