Honda Unveils Eye-Popping 2026 HR-V

Honda’s compact SUV is back

Honda has just revealed the 2026 model year HR-V, with a few changes and upgrades to set it apart from its predecessor. The 2026 HR-V will continue to use the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. AWD remains optional, and it appears that efficiency numbers (listed below) will remain about the same.

Once again, the 2026 Honda HR-V will be based on the eleventh-generation Honda Civic. This is the second generation of the HR-V for our market, and Honda sold nearly 139,000 units in the U.S. over the 2024 model year, a nearly 14-percent increase over 2023. Still, it’s been a few years since the second-generation model was introduced, so some changes are needed.

Three trims will be available. The base model HR-V LX now comes with “Pewter Gray” 17-inch alloy wheels, while the HR-V Sport gets new 18-inch “Berlina Black” alloy wheels. The top-of-the-line HR-V EX-L also sports 18-inch alloy wheels, albeit with a machine-finished look. Two new exterior colors join the roster: “Solar Reflection Metallic,” which is available on the LX and EX-L, and “Boost Blue Pearl,” which is only available on the HR-V Sport. Base model HR-Vs get rear privacy glass, and mid-level trims get blacked-out rear badging.

2026 Honda HR-V Pricing & EPA Fuel Economy Ratings

The interior gets some upgrades, too

The base model LX and mid-level Sport get a larger 9-inch infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. New front footwell lighting mirrors the dynamic climate control knob lighting, which can be blue, red, or white. The steering wheel has a silver finish and has also been restyled. Honda’s suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies will also come standard. Like the previous model, Honda is including “next generation” airbags as well as knee and rear passenger side impact airbags.

Final thoughts

While the basic looks and performance remain the same, Honda was smart to give the HR-V a mid-cycle refresh. It’s one of its better sellers and remains competitive against the Toyota Corolla Cross, Mazda CX-30, and Nissan Kicks, among others. With competitive pricing and fuel economy, it stands a chance of making an impact in its segment. The 2026 Honda HR-V is arriving at dealerships now.