A silver 2023 Honda HR-V Sport is shown on a city street after leaving a Honda dealership near Ruston, LA.
There are so many SUVs out on the road, and if you’re having trouble figuring out the differences between some of the top models available, you’re not alone. Many Ruston drivers are drawn to Honda vehicles because this automaker engineers cars that last, exhibiting reliability and a smooth ride. If you’re searching for a Honda dealership near Ruston, LA, Ryan Honda is it, and when it comes to two of the smallest SUVs in the Honda arsenal, you’ll want to turn your attention to the CR-V and the HR-V. So, what are the differences between the CR-V and the HR-V? Well, we can guarantee that it comes down to way more than size, so let’s get to know more about these Honda vehicles.

Overall Size & Interior Space

First and foremost, the biggest difference between the CR-V and the HR-V is size. The Honda CR-V is a compact SUV, while the HR-V is a subcompact SUV, both of which appeal perfectly to their respective audiences, which we’ll get into later. The Honda CR-V is longer, wider, and taller than the smaller HR-V, with a higher ground clearance and more interior space to fit passengers and cargo. Although both SUVs seat five, the CR-V offers more legroom, allowing all occupants to enjoy a cozier ride inside. You’ll find that the HR-V may be more cramped for those frequently traveling with fellow passengers, which is important to keep in mind if you’re on regular carpool duty.

As we mentioned above, you’ll be able to enjoy more cargo space in the larger CR-V, which offers up to 76.5 cu.ft. of cargo space when properly configured. The Honda HR-V is also impressive for its size; however, it’ll only grant you a maximum of 55.1 cu.ft. of cargo space for all of your gear. This can be a deciding factor here, especially when you require more space inside your vehicle as a whole.

Engine Lineup & Efficiency

Whether you choose the compact CR-V or the subcompact HR-V, you’ll be in for a fantastic ride inside both, as Honda is known for its engineering and performance. For drivers who are looking for more options, you’ll find them in the CR-V, which offers a choice of two engines to craft the ride you desire behind the wheel. Its 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder offers a smooth yet peppy ride, with 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to tow up to 1,500 lbs. Opting for its hybrid model will deliver excellent efficiency, able to get an EPA-estimated 43 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.[a] No matter which engine you choose in the CR-V’s inventory, you’ll be able to enjoy heightened performance and excellent fuel economy, which is why many drivers are compelled to own this particular model.

The HR-V is only available with one engine to choose from, a 2.0L four-cylinder, which produces 158 horsepower, delivering a smooth and energetic ride through packed city streets. It’s efficient, too, getting an EPA-estimated 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway, but it doesn’t quite come close to what the CR-V hybrid can achieve.[b] Overall, both SUVs are armed with phenomenal Honda driving dynamics, but if you want more power and more options, you’ll find them in the CR-V.
A red 2023 Honda CR-V EX is shown driving over a city bridge.?

Trim Selection

The CR-V is bigger, stronger, and more efficient than the HR-V, and you’ll also notice that you have more of a selection when it comes to its available trims. The CR-V is offered in four trim levels, with its Sport Touring Hybrid serving as its top-tier trim, boasting leather-trimmed seats with orange stitched accents, a premium sound system, and power-adjustable front seats with a driver’s seat memory system. The EX-L is another impressive model, featuring leather trimmings throughout, a power tailgate, and heated front seats to really enhance the feeling of the drive. A Sport Hybrid is in the mix to add a level of athleticism to this popular traveler, while the base EX showcases a comfortable ride with cloth seats, brilliant LED headlights, and a cozy atmosphere inside.

The HR-V has a nice selection of trim levels as well; however, there are fewer HR-V models to choose from, with only three trims available. Its high-end EX-L is luxury redefined, with leather upholstery, heated seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, while its Sport offers bold elements to add excitement to the ride. From a roofline spoiler to a chrome exhaust finisher, the HR-V Sport is a thrilling traveler. Finally, the base HR-V LX blends no-nonsense style with modern comfort to allow drivers on a budget to enjoy an all-around enjoyable ride.

Tech & Safety

You’ll find more tech options inside of the CR-V compared to the smaller and more affordable HR-V. From wireless charging and wireless smartphone integration available in more trims to more advanced assistance features, the CR-V is loaded up with technology. Fortunately, the HR-V offers most of this in its top-level EX-L model. Both models feature a seven-inch or an available nine-inch infotainment touchscreen display, providing access to all of the connectivity tech you need during your ride. Both the CR-V and the HR-V have a nice selection of tech and safety features, but if you don’t want to overpay and you want to enjoy more of these features in mid-level models, the CR-V will offer this to you.

Who’s Driving the CR-V?

The CR-V is a more versatile vehicle, providing the pleasing driving dynamics of a sedan with the space of an SUV. That’s why you’ll see this SUV frequently accompanying families, commuters, and road trippers everywhere they need to go. There’s more space to handle your passengers comfortably and more room for everything joining you on the ride. Having just a bit more space than the HR-V opens up enhanced possibilities behind the wheel, which is why so many drivers gravitate to this Honda when their ride matters.

Who’s Driving the HR-V?

The HR-V is exceptionally ideal for frequent commuters and those who normally travel alone. It’s small and agile enough to whip through traffic with precision while also offering a comfortable ride, especially for those in the driver’s seat. It’s not ideal for families due to its lack of cargo space and legroom in its back row, but it gets the job done when it comes to the everyday drive to work.
A black 2023 Honda HR-V Sport is shown on a city street at night.

CR-V vs HR-V: Which SUV Is Right for Me?

If you’re looking for an SUV that’s easy to maneuver and spacious to accommodate more people and travel gear, the CR-V may be perfect for you; however, if you want a capable commuter that effortlessly zips through traffic like it’s nothing, the HR-V may appeal to you. Both Honda SUVs are exceptional, with plenty of tech and safety features to keep you secure on any roadway and efficient engines that help keep more money in your pocket at the pump. When you shop at Ryan Honda, our pros will help you decide which model is right for your unique driving needs, so stop by and see what we have to offer to bring immense enjoyment to your travels. When you’re driving a Honda, you’ll get to take advantage of a dependable, safe, and exciting ride, and when you’ve got an SUV in your sights, both the CR-V and HR-V are ready to wow you.


[a] 28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg rating for 2WD EX & EX-L trims. 27 city/32 highway/29 combined mpg rating for AWD EX & EX-L trims. 43 city/36 highway/40 combined mpg rating for the 2WD Sport trim. 40 city/34 highway/37 combined mpg rating for AWD Sport & Sport Touring trims. Based on 2023 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery-pack age/condition (hybrid trims) and other factors.
[b] 26 city/32 highway/28 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 25 city/30 highway/27 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. Based on 2023 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions and other factors.