The 2021 Honda HR-V Configurations: Exploring Your Best Options

When it comes to subcompact SUVs Honda has long been a favorite for many drivers And the 2021 Honda HR-V stands as a testament to that reputation With a smart design a reliable engine and lots of customization options this versatile vehicle offers a great blend of functionality and style for a wide range of customers Whether you're a new driver seeking a practical yet sporty ride or someone in need of a small crossover that handles family needs well the 2021 Honda HR-V configurations have got you covered Here we’re diving deep into the configurations trims and features that make the HR-V a top choice in its category

Overview of the 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2021 Honda HR-V brings forward a practical design with an eye for detail The model continues its legacy of offering spacious interiors and a user-friendly infotainment system With a stylish compact exterior and a wide-opening rear hatch the HR-V fits comfortably into urban life while being versatile enough for weekend adventures

However no vehicle is without its drawbacks While the HR-V's handling is reliable some find the powertrain a bit underwhelming with its 141-horsepower 1.8-liter engine But we'll touch on these aspects more as we break down each configuration and feature in detail

The Different Trims of the 2021 Honda HR-V

The 2021 Honda HR-V comes in four primary trims each offering unique features to cater to different needs and preferences Here are the available trims

1. LX: The base model equipped with essential features for budget-conscious buyers
2. Sport: Designed for those who seek a sporty edge and additional tech features
3. EX: A step up from the Sport trim offering more comfort and safety features
4. EX-L: The most luxurious trim providing a more premium interior experience

LX – The Practical Starter

For those looking to enter the subcompact SUV market without breaking the bank the LX trim of the 2021 HR-V is an excellent option This trim is equipped with the basics offering standard features like a 5-inch infotainment display Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera. With a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and 141 horsepower, it offers adequate power for daily commutes and errands

Pros:

• Affordability: The LX trim starts at an approachable price making it one of the most budget-friendly options
• Fuel Efficiency: With an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway it's quite efficient
• Cargo Space: The Magic Seat feature allows the rear seats to fold flat for more storage capacity

Cons:

• Lacks Advanced Tech: No Apple CarPlay or Android Auto compatibility
• Basic Interior Materials: Compared to higher trims the cabin lacks some of the softer touchpoints and premium feel

Sport – For the Tech-Savvy

The Sport trim builds upon the LX by adding features geared towards a more enjoyable driving experience and tech-savvy users It includes a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration 18-inch wheels and paddle shifters for those who prefer a bit more control over their drive The sporty exterior styling also distinguishes it from the LX giving it a more aggressive look

Pros:

• Tech Upgrades: The addition of a touchscreen and smartphone integration enhances the driving experience
• Exterior Style: Sport-exclusive styling details like blacked-out mirrors and unique wheels
• More Responsive Feel: With the inclusion of paddle shifters drivers can engage more with the vehicle’s performance

Cons:

• Noisy Cabin: Some drivers have reported higher-than-expected road noise
• No Major Engine Upgrade: The Sport trim shares the same powertrain as the LX so while it looks more aggressive it doesn't necessarily perform like it

EX – The Best Balance of Comfort and Safety

If you're seeking more comfort and a comprehensive safety suite the EX trim stands out as a great middle ground Priced reasonably compared to the top EX-L trim it comes with features like heated front seats a moonroof and the Honda Sensing suite of safety features which includes adaptive cruise control lane-keeping assist and collision mitigation braking

Pros:

• Advanced Safety Features: Honda Sensing adds a layer of safety and confidence for both city and highway driving
• Heated Seats & Moonroof: Perfect for those who want a touch of luxury without committing to the top trim
• Smart Entry: The keyless entry system adds a level of convenience to your daily drive

Cons:

• Price Bump: While offering more features the EX is noticeably more expensive than the Sport trim
• Infotainment System: Though better than the LX some users find the touchscreen interface laggy or difficult to use at times

EX-L – The Premium Choice

The EX-L trim is for those who want the best the HR-V has to offer It brings a more upscale experience into the subcompact SUV class by offering leather-trimmed seats an automatic-dimming rearview mirror and an upgraded sound system All these touches make it a more luxurious option within the HR-V lineup but it does come at a higher price point

Pros:

• Premium Interior: The leather seats and high-quality materials give the EX-L a more luxurious feel
• Sound System: The upgraded audio system offers a better overall listening experience
• Heated Mirrors: A small yet convenient feature especially in colder climates

Cons:

• Highest Price: It’s the priciest option among all HR-V trims potentially making it less accessible for budget buyers
• No Engine Upgrade: Despite the premium interior touches the EX-L shares the same 141-hp engine as the other trims

Interior Space and Versatility

One of the HR-V’s best features across all configurations is its spacious interior. With Honda’s Magic Seat system you can configure the rear seats in several ways to maximize storage space Whether you need to haul a tall plant or some extra luggage the HR-V has the flexibility to make it work

Seating and Comfort

• Rear Legroom: Surprisingly generous for a subcompact SUV
• Magic Seat Configurations: Offers standard utility tall mode and long mode to accommodate various cargo sizes
• Upholstery Options: Cloth seats are standard on the LX Sport and EX trims while the EX-L gets leather

Engine and Performance

The HR-V is powered by a 1.8-liter inline-four engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque It's paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) that provides smooth gear transitions though some drivers find it lacks the "punch" they’d like from an SUV

Driving Experience

• Smooth Ride: The HR-V is designed for comfort not sporty driving. This makes it great for city commutes but it may feel underpowered on highways or steep inclines
• Handling: Easy to maneuver thanks to its compact size and responsive steering
• All-Wheel Drive Option: Available on all trims for those who need added traction in rain or snow

Fuel Economy

One of the key strengths of the HR-V is its fuel efficiency. Whether you're in the city or on the highway the HR-V manages to deliver great mileage The EPA estimates around 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models making it one of the most efficient subcompact SUVs on the market

Infotainment and Connectivity

As mentioned earlier each trim of the HR-V comes with a different level of tech features

LX Trim

• 5-Inch Display: Basic but functional
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Hands-free calling and audio streaming

Sport Trim and Higher

• 7-Inch Touchscreen: Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration
• USB Ports & Auxiliary Jack: Multiple options for device connectivity

Safety and Driver Assistance

Honda makes sure all HR-V trims are equipped with essential safety features but the Honda Sensing Suite is only available starting with the EX trim

Key Safety Features

• Standard Rearview Camera: Across all trims
• Honda Sensing Suite: Available on EX and EX-L including adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation braking
• Vehicle Stability Assist: Standard on all models to help maintain control during tight turns

Alex Collantes’ Personal Opinion on the 2021 Honda HR-V

"I’ve had a chance to test-drive the 2021 Honda HR-V Sport and I have to say it's the perfect balance between affordability and tech" says Alex Collantes a long-time automotive enthusiast "While the powertrain isn't something that’s gonna blow your mind for day-to-day driving it's smooth reliable and the interior versatility is hands-down one of the best in its class The HR-V feels like a small SUV that can handle anything from a Costco run to a weekend getaway It might not have the raw power that some competitors boast but for most people looking for a reliable and practical crossover it's a solid choice"

Final Thoughts on the 2021 Honda HR-V Configurations

The 2021 Honda HR-V is a well-rounded choice in the subcompact SUV market Each trim offers something unique catering to different buyers Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly option like the LX or you want to indulge in a more premium experience with the EX-L the HR-V provides a variety of options to suit your needs While it may not be the most powerful SUV out there its practicality spacious interior and reliability make it an appealing choice for many drivers

Remember: Each trim has its strengths and potential downsides so it's all about finding the right configuration that meets your personal preferences and budget requirements And no matter which trim you choose the 2021 Honda HR-V has a lot to offer for those in search of a capable subcompact crossover

References

1. Honda Official Website: https://www.honda.com
2. Car and Driver: Review of the 2021 Honda HR-V
3. Consumer Reports: In-depth analysis of safety and reliability ratings for the 2021 HR-V
4. Alex Collantes Interview: Personal test-drive experience and insights