2026 Honda HR-V
The HR-V gives Honda crossover fans a smaller alternative to the exceedingly popular CR-V, with many of the same attractive qualities. Most importantly, the HR-V brings with it the legendary Honda reliability at a price point that’s similarly budget-friendly. Model year 2026 brings a mid-cycle refresh for the HR-V, with some styling and tech-related updates. For example, all trims now get wireless device charging and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless smartphone connection (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay). Each trim also gets fresh wheel designs, and the EX-L sees improvement to its cabin lighting. You’ll also notice a stylish gloss-black tailgate badge on the Sport, while the premium EX-L has been given silver steering wheel spokes, illuminated climate-control knobs, and lighting for the front footwell. Rear privacy glass is standard across the board, and new paint colors called Boost Blue Pearl and Solar Reflection Metallic have been added to the palette. Buyers and lessees continue to receive Honda Service Pass for no-cost standard scheduled maintenance (mainly oil changes) during the first year or 12,000 miles.
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Trims and Mechanical Highlights
The three trim levels for the 2026 HR-V use the traditional Honda nomenclature of LX, Sport, and EX-L. Their 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine puts out 158 hp and matches up with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). All trims get a front-wheel drivetrain (FWD) by default, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional. The standard drive-mode selector has settings for Econ, Normal, Snow.
The HR-V appeals to subcompact crossover buyers for many reasons, one of which is its fine fuel economy. The EPA has officially estimated that the FWD version achieves 26 mpg in city driving and 32 mpg on the open road. With AWD, those values dip somewhat to 25 mpg city/30 mpg highway.
Standard and Available Amenities
The LX has more than ample features for a base model in this segment. The list starts with the previously mentioned wireless phone charging and rear privacy glass, plus remote keyless entry, auto-on/off LED headlights, LED taillights and daytime running lights, automatic climate control (one zone), push-button ignition, active noise cancellation, a 60/40-split second-row seatback, a 7-inch driver information display, three USB-C ports (one data and two charging), a 12V power outlet, and power-adjustable exterior mirrors.
The Sport adds some unique styling elements (a trim-specific grille, black exterior accents, and a chrome exhaust finisher) along with remote engine start, Smart Entry with Walk Away Auto Lock, heated front seats, heated power-adjustable exterior mirrors with built-in turn indicators, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The EX-L goes back to more traditional styling and raises the luxury factor with leather upholstery, a second automatic climate control zone, a one-touch power moonroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a power-adjustable seat for the driver.
Safety Technology
The Honda Sensing technology suite comes standard to increase driver confidence and passenger safety. It contains automatic high beams, forward collision warning, a driver attention monitor, collision mitigation braking system, road departure mitigation, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, lane keeping assist, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist, and traffic sign recognition. A blind-spot information system and rear cross-traffic monitor are added to the Sport and EX-L; only the EX-L gets low-speed braking control and front and rear parking sensors.
Staying Informed and Connected
As mentioned, a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is installed in every ’26 HR-V. Its other components are Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, and a sound system with a number of speakers that varies by trim level: the LX gets four, the Sport upgrades to six, and the top-of-the-line EX-L is equipped with eight speakers. HondaLink Basic is included as well to enable the driver to schedule service, call for 24-hour roadside assistance, view the vehicle manual, and get notifications in the unlikely case of a recall.
