The Honda HR-V Received a Mild Refresh for the 2026 Model Year
Honda is updating its popular HR-V subcompact SUV for the 2026 model year to boost its appeal with younger buyers. The crossover sees updated styling, new tech features, and fresh color options for the model year. Honda recently released pricing details for the SUV, which it said is already arriving on dealers’ lots.
Three trims are available for the new model year: LX, Sport, and EX-L. Prices range from $27,595 on the low end to $32,945 for the top EX-L AWD model, including a $1,395 destination charge. The 2026 HR-V features new 17- and 18-inch wheel designs, depending on the trim level. Honda also introduced two new exclusive color options: Solar Reflection Metallic and Boost Blue Pearl.
Interior changes include a larger nine-inch touchscreen, up from seven inches the year before, which brings wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless charging and USB-C ports are also standard. All HR-Vs come with Honda Sensing safety equipment, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and other features.
The HR-V’s powertrain didn’t change for 2026. It’s still the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque we’ve seen for a while. Power reaches the front or all four wheels through a continuously variable transmission. Honda’s CVT is more refined than some competing units, but the HR-V is far from engaging to drive and takes more throttle than expected to get going.
[Images: Honda]
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Chris grew up in, under, and around cars, but took the long way around to becoming an automotive writer. After a career in technology consulting and a trip through business school, Chris began writing about the automotive industry as a way to reconnect with his passion and get behind the wheel of a new car every week. He focuses on taking complex industry stories and making them digestible by any reader. Just don’t expect him to stay away from high-mileage Porsches.
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It's not really underpowered ..it's adequate. The CVT and the lack of great sound insulation makes it feel more so. However, there's an Acura ADX if one wants more power and luxury.
This is one of perhaps 20 new cars my wife test drove before finally choosing a Bronco Sport Badlands 3 weeks ago. The HRV brought her back to fine memories of her late 90s Civic.......unfortunately the new HRV probably had the same engine! Man was that thing under-powered and screamed away getting up to speed. For 31K, No Thank You. I know Honda is still living off its 90s-2000s memories of decent quality cars, but in no way was this thing worth 30gs.