2021 Honda CR-V vs Honda HR-V Review

Serving Gastonia, NC, Charlotte, and Rock Hill
Honda has one of the highest-rated SUV lineups on the market. Many car shoppers will ultimately be choosing between the 2021 Honda HR-V and the 2021 Honda CR-V. Let’s take a look at how these two models compare to each other.
Specs | 2021 Honda CR-V 2WD LX | 2021 Honda HR-V LX |
Starting MSRP* | $25,350* | $21,220*** |
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy) | 28 city / 34 hwy mpg** | 28 city / 34 hwy mpg**** |
Standard Engine | 1.5L VTEC® Turbocharged 4-Cylinder Engine | 1.8L 4-Cylinder Engine with EarthDreams® Technology |
Horsepower | 190 hp | 141 hp |
Honda Sensing® | Standard | Standard |
Multi-Angle Rearview Camera | Standard | Standard |
Performance
You can expect the 2021 Honda HR-V to deliver a smooth and responsive performance. Its 1.8-liter, i-VTEC four-cylinder engine develops 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. A continuously variable automatic transmission helps optimize fuel efficiency. Under the hood of the 2021 Honda CR-V sits a 1.5-liter, turbocharged i-VTEC four-cylinder engine. Honda rates it to develop 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Like the HR-V, the CR-V uses a continuously variable automatic transmission.
These crossovers have an identical EPA fuel economy rating of 28 mpg city/34 mpg highway. While front-wheel drive comes standard, you can opt for a Real Time AWD system. One of the biggest advantages of the CR-V is its 1,500-pound maximum towing capacity. Honda does not recommend the subcompact HR-V for towing.
Appearance
When comparing the 2021 Honda HR-V to the 2021 Honda CR-V, you’ll notice that they both have a sleek and sporty exterior. Nevertheless, there are a few noticeable styling differences.
There’s no overlooking the more compact design of the HR-V. Vertical rear door handles and unique taillights further set apart the HR-V. Available 18-inch black wheels give the HR-V Sport an aggressive look. While the HR-V definitely packs a lot of style, you can expect the CR-V to turn just as many heads. Larger 19-inch alloy wheels and dual chrome exhaust finishers give the range-topping CR-V Touring an especially upscale appearance. Furthermore, only the CR-V is offered with LED headlights.

Safety
Honda Sensing, which is a collection of advanced driving aids, comes standard on the 2021 Honda CR-V. Highlights include Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control. Although Honda Sensing is not standard on the HR-V, it’s offered on the SUV’s higher trim levels. While the CR-V offers a traditional blind-spot monitoring system, an innovative LaneWatch camera system is available on the HR-V.
Test Drive Today!
If you are interested in further comparing these two models, stop by our local Honda dealer to take them both for a test drive!
*MSRP includes any selected accessories. MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, $1,175 destination charge and any accessory installation costs. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $395 charge for select premium colors. $395 charge applies to 2021 and newer models.
**MSRP excluding tax, license, registration, $1,175 destination charge and accessories. Dealer prices may vary. MSRP does not include $395 charge for select premium colors. $395 charge applies to 2021 and newer models.
***28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 27 city/32 highway/29 combined mpg rating for AWD trims. 40 city/35 highway/38 combined mpg rating for hybrid trims. Based on 2021 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.
****28 city/34 highway/30 combined mpg rating for 2WD trims. 27 city/31 highway/29 combined mpg rating for AWD LX trims. 26 city/31 highway/28 combined mpg rating for AWD Sport, EX, & EX-L trims. Based on 2021 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.