Honda HR-V India Review: Can It Beat the Creta, Grand Vitara, and Hyundai?

The mid-size SUV market in India is heating up, and Honda has joined the race with its latest offering – the all-new Honda HR-V. But can it compete with the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Maruti Grand Vitara, and Toyota Hyryder?

In this detailed review, let’s explore the HR-V’s design, features, engine performance, space, and fuel economy to help you decide whether it’s the right SUV for you.

The Honda HR-V is likely to launch in India by August 2025, though some reports indicate it could arrive as late as March 2026.

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Bold & Modern Design

The Honda HR-V brings a European-inspired design language that looks premium and futuristic. Especially in the RS variant, it gets sporty chrome elements, gloss-black touches, and ‘Hybrid’ badging that adds to its street presence.

Dimensions:

• Length: 4385 mm
• Width: 1790 mm
• Height: 1590 mm
• Ground Clearance: 196 mm

Boot Space:

• 335 litres (slightly lower due to the hybrid battery)

• Features a powered tailgate for convenience, rare in this segment

The front fascia of the HR-V features sleek full-LED headlamps, a bold gloss-black grille, and a striking, aggressive design language.. The coupe-like rear design and 18-inch alloy wheels (Bridgestone 225/50 R18) complete its crossover look.

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Interior and Comfort: Premium Honda Touch

The moment you enter, the HR-V impresses with its all-black interior, plush soft-touch materials, and robust build quality.

Key Interior Highlights:

• Smart keyless entry & push-start
• 8-inch fully digital TFT instrument cluster
• Electric adjustable driver seat
• Auto climate control & well-designed AC vents
• RS variant gets a panoramic glass roof (non-opening style)

Second-Row Seating:

• Generous legroom and decent headroom
• Rear AC vents
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• Rear seats fold flat (60:40 split) to expand luggage space

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3. Engine, Hybrid Powertrain & Performance

The HR-V comes with a 1.5L Atkinson cycle petrol engine combined with Honda’s advanced parallel hybrid system – the same tech as seen in the Honda City e:HEV.

Performance Specs:

• Petrol Engine Power: 106 PS
• Hybrid System Total Output: 131 PS
• Torque: 253 Nm
• Transmission: e-CVT
• Claimed Mileage: 25.6 km/l
• Real-World Mileage: 20–22 km/l

The HR-V feels smooth and linear to drive. It’s fuel-efficient like a diesel and still offers solid performance, thanks to the instant torque from the electric motor.

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4. Safety & Tech Features

Built on the trusted Honda City platform, the HR-V prioritises safety with a good mix of features.

Safety Features:

• 6 airbags
• ABS with EBD
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA)
• Hill Start Assist
• Honda Sensing (ADAS features like lane watch, adaptive cruise, etc.)

However, a 360° camera is missing – something buyers might expect in this segment.

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5. How Does It Compare With Rivals?

Let’s compare the HR-V Hybrid with some popular competitors:

Advantages of HR-V:

• Excellent fuel economy
• Powerful torque for better drivability
• ADAS and premium features
• Refined hybrid technology

Limitations:

• Slightly smaller boot space in the hybrid variant
• No 360° camera
• Sunroof available only in the RS variant

 

Also Read: Hyundai Bayon India Launch in 2026: Expected Price, Features, and Details

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Final Verdict: Is the Honda HR-V Right for You?

If you want a premium-looking SUV with hybrid efficiency, refined performance, and Honda’s reliability, the HR-V Hybrid is a great choice. While the Creta and Grand Vitara offer more brand value and cabin space, the HR-V feels more modern, urban, and technologically advanced.

Think of it as a statement car—much like the Skoda Kushaq or Volkswagen Taigun—made for those who want something different and slightly upmarket.