New Honda CR-V Vs. Honda HR-V Detailed Comparison
Your search for a compact crossover SUV may lead you to compare the Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V. Both vehicles are intelligently designed, featuring a standard four-cylinder engine, LED headlights, and wireless charging. Despite their similarities, they each have advantages over the other – some of which may be surprising to you.
At DARCARS Honda, you can learn more about the personalities of these vehicles through tours and test drives, but we recommend looking at this overview first in case it helps narrow down your interests.
2026 Honda CR-V vs. 2026 Honda HR-V at a Glance
- Both models are classified as a compact SUV, but the Honda HR-V is a bit smaller than the Honda CR-V
- The HR-V has a lower MSRP than the CR-V, which can help you budget better or upgrade to a higher trim level
- The 2026 CR-V offers an available hybrid powertrain, giving you excellent fuel efficiency; the 2026 HR-V only has a gasoline engine
- The new Honda CR-V can tow up to 1,500 pounds,1 while the new Honda HR-V is not rated for towing
- Both Honda vehicles come standard with a slew of driver aids and are known to be safe, reliable SUVs
2026 Honda CR-V vs. HR-V Dimensions
| Specifications | 2026 Honda HR-V | 2026 Honda CR-V |
| Length | 179.8 in | 184.8 in |
| Width | 72.4 in | 73.5 in |
| Height | 63.4 - 63.8 in | 66.2 - 66.5 in |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 97.3 - 98.7 cu ft | 103.5 - 106 cu ft |
| Headroom (1st row / 2nd row) | 38.4 - 39.4 / 38 in | 38.2 - 40 / 38.2 in |
| Legroom (1st row / 2nd row) | 41.9 / 37.7 in | 41.3 / 41 in |
| Cargo (Rear seat up / down) | 24.4 / 55.1 cu ft | 36.3 - 39.3 / 76.5 cu ft |
As we've mentioned, the Honda HR-V is the more compact model of the two, often resulting in extra agility. Its turning diameter is as small as 35.1 feet, compared to the minimum of 37 feet offered by the Honda CR-V. Despite its tighter dimensions, this SUV also provides slightly more first-row legroom compared to its counterpart, which can be important for tall drivers.
Those who regularly seat adults in the second row may prefer the Honda CR-V, however, as it offers 41 inches of legroom. The amount of extra cargo room in this SUV is also substantial; it boasts over 20 cubic feet of additional room behind the front row. For reference, a large suitcase is usually about four cubic feet. It also has a larger cargo capacity with the rear seat in place.
We will call this category a tie, as it all depends on your family's preferences
Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Performance
Those who buy a new Honda CR-V SUV have a choice of two engine options. The first is a 190-horsepower four-cylinder turbocharged unit that produces an EPA-estimated 28/33/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with FWD.2 The same engine delivers an EPA-estimated 27/31/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with available AWD.2
So far, this is fairly similar to the performance of the Honda HR-V, which achieves an EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined) with FWD.2 With available AWD, it renders an EPA-estimated 25/30/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 The HR-V comes standard with a 158-horsepower four-cylinder engine.
As already mentioned, the CR-V offers another powertrain – a hybrid system that combines a four-cylinder engine with dual motors to give you 204 net horsepower and up to an EPA-estimated 43/36/40 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3
In the category of Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V fuel efficiency, we have to give the point to the Honda CR-V. It also scores a win in towing capability, as it can handle up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped. The Honda HR-V is not recommended for towing.
Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V Safety
Both SUVs prioritize safety. However, the Honda HR-V shines just a little brighter, as it was named an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award winner for 2025;4 we foresee that it will achieve the same once the announcements for 2026 come out. However, the CR-V still earned an impressive IIHS Top Safety Pick award for 2025.4
In addition to being lovingly well-designed, these sport-utes contain a wide array of standard driver-assistance features. The following can be found on both the Honda HR-V and Honda CR-V:
- Collision Mitigation Braking System
- Road Departure Mitigation System
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow
- Lane Keeping Assist System
- Forward Collision Warning
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Driver Attention Monitor
If you want to buy or lease a Honda HR-V, or one of our Honda CR-V models, our team would be happy to show you how these features work and how to make the most of them.
Pros and Cons of the Honda HR-V and Honda CR-V
Honda HR-V Pros
- Lower starting price than the CR-V
- Smaller size makes maneuverability easier
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+ winner for 20252
Honda HR-V Cons
- Engine prioritizes efficiency over power
- Less cargo space than the CR-V
Honda CR-V Pros
- Available hybrid engine delivers strong MPG and power
- More standard and maximum cargo space than the HR-V
- Tows up to 1,500 pounds when properly equipped
Honda CR-V Cons
- Higher starting price than the HR-V
- Larger turning radius than the HR-V
Embrace the Family-Friendly Possibilities at DARCARS Honda
Want to dig deeper into the 2026 Honda CR-V vs. HR-V differences? We're enthusiastic about cars at DARCARS Honda and would love the chance to continue this conversation with you in person. We can specifically dive into Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V trims, as the CR-V has a menu of six, while the Honda HR-V simplifies its selection to three. Whatever decision you come to, whether it's to buy a Honda HR-V or a Honda CR-V, we will transparently lay out your take-home options.
You can also inquire about a Honda HR-V or Honda CR-V lease if a short-term arrangement seems more appealing to you than a long-term commitment.
FAQ About the Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V
How does an HR-V compare to a CR-V?
The Honda HR-V and Honda CR-V are both compact SUVs, but the HR-V is slightly smaller outside and inside overall. The CR-V is more fuel-efficient and has greater cargo space, but it also has a higher MSRP. For more specifics about how the new Honda CR-V vs. Honda HR-V models differ, reach out to our team.
What is the gas mileage on a 2026 Honda CR-V vs. HR-V?
The Honda CR-V has two powertrains. With its standard engine, it delivers a maximum EPA-estimated 28/33/30 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2 Opt for the hybrid variant, and this goes up to an EPA-estimated 43/36/40 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).3 At its highest, the Honda HR-V makes an EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).2
What are the dimensions of the 2026 Honda HR-V vs. CR-V?
The 2026 Honda HR-V measures 179.8 inches long, 72.4 inches wide, and up to 63.8 inches tall. The 2026 Honda CR-V is slightly bigger, at 184.8 inches long, 73.5 inches wide, and up to 66.5 inches tall. Both SUVs seat five occupants, but the CR-V boasts more passenger volume and cargo space overall.
Featured Customer Review for Honda CR-V
Moises Escobar
8/13/2025
Christopher in sales helped my brother in law get a new 2026 Honda CRV Sport L. He treated us with respect, patience and most importantly gave us an amazing deal on the CR-V and our Jeep. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience here at DARCARS Honda of Bowie. I would recommend anyone to ask for Chris and to my Spanish community. He not only speaks Spanish but actually cares for you to get an amazing deal and doesn’t take advantage of you for his own gain. We love the CR-V and thanks again to management and Chris for making it happen! We appreciate you guys
Discover More About The New Honda CR-V & Honda HR-V
1Towing requires accessory towing equipment. Please see your Honda dealer for details.
2Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
3Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery package/condition, and other factors.
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding these awards, visit www.iihs.org.