If you’re looking at a Honda HR-V from 2016 to 2023, you’re probably wondering about its efficiency. Understanding the Honda HR-V MPG /Gas Mileage [2016 – 2023] is key to knowing your real-world fuel costs. This popular subcompact SUV has seen some changes over these model years, and its gas mileage can vary quite a bit depending on the drivetrain, model year, and how you drive. Let’s break down exactly what you can expect at the pump.
Honda HR-V Mpg /Gas Mileage [2016 – 2023]
The HR-V’s fuel economy story is told in two distinct chapters: the first-generation model (2016-2022) and the completely redesigned second-generation model (2023). The earlier models are known for their impressive efficiency, especially with the front-wheel drive versions. The newer 2023 model brought a more powerful standard engine but, in some configurations, slightly lower EPA estimates. Knowing which year and trim you’re considering will give you the clearest picture.
HR-V MPG by Model Year & Drivetrain
Here’s a detailed look at the official EPA-estimated fuel mileage for each model year. Remember, these are estimates; your actual mileage will depend on driving conditions, maintenance, and personal driving habits.
* 2016-2022 Honda HR-V (First Generation):
* FWD (CVT): 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined.
* AWD (CVT): 27 mpg city / 31 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined.
Note: A 6-speed manual transmission was available on some LX trims for 2016-2018, rated at 25 city / 34 highway / 28 combined (FWD).
* 2023 Honda HR-V (Second Generation):
* FWD (CVT): 26 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined.
* AWD (CVT): 25 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 27 mpg combined.
As you can see, the 2023 model sees a small dip in city and combined ratings, which is partly due to its larger, more powerful 2.0-liter engine compared to the older 1.8-liter. However, it offers more standard features and a updated safety suite.
What Real Owners Report for Fuel Economy
EPA numbers are a great starting point, but real-world driving often tells a different story. Based on owner reports from forums and fuel tracking websites:
* 2016-2022 Owners: Many report achieving very close to the EPA numbers, especially on highway trips. A common average reported is between 29-31 mpg combined for FWD models. AWD models often see about 26-28 mpg in mixed driving. Heavy stop-and-go city traffic is the biggest factor that can lower these numbers.
* 2023 Owners: Early reports suggest the new model is very consistent. Owners often see 26-28 mpg in combined driving for FWD, and 24-27 mpg for AWD. The engine doesn’t have to work as hard in certain situations, which can help in some driving conditions.
Your right foot is the biggest variable. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking can reduce your mileage by several MPG in either generation.
Factors That Significantly Affect Your HR-V’s MPG
Several things beyond the model year impact how many miles you get per gallon. Being aware of these can help you maximize efficiency.
* Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD) always reduces fuel economy compared to front-wheel drive (FWD) due to added weight and mechanical drag. Choose AWD only if you truly need the extra traction.
* Tires and Wheels: Larger alloy wheels (like the ones on Sport or EX-L trims) often have wider, stickier tires that create more rolling resistance. Keeping tires properly inflated is one of the easiest ways to maintain good MPG.
* Driving Environment: Constant short trips, cold weather, and hilly terrain will lower your average. Highway cruising is where the HR-V shines most efficiently.
* Vehicle Maintenance: A dirty air filter, old spark plugs, or overdue oil change can all make your engine work less efficiently. Stick to the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual.
* Cargo and Roof Racks: Carrying heavy loads or having a roof rack, cargo box, or bike rack installed creates drag and weight, which hurts fuel economy on the highway quite a bit.
How to Get the Best Possible Gas Mileage
You can take control of your fuel costs. Here are practical steps to improve your HR-V’s efficiency, no matter the year.
1. Smooth Driving is Key: Accelerate gently and anticipate stops so you can brake gradually. Imagine there’s a cup of coffee on the dashboard you don’t want to spill.
2. Use Cruise Control: On flat highways, cruise control maintains a steady speed better than most drivers can, preventing unnecessary speed ups and slow downs.
3. Reduce Idling: If you’re stopped for more than a minute (outside of traffic), turn the engine off. Modern starters are designed for this.
4. Check Tire Pressure Monthly: Under-inflated tires are one of the top killers of MPG. Check them when they are cold, using the pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb, not the tire sidewall.
5. Lighten the Load: Remove unnecessary heavy items from your trunk or cargo area. Every extra 100 pounds can reduce your MPG.
6. Plan Your Trips: Combining errands into one trip keeps the engine warm and operating at peak efficiency, unlike several separate cold starts.
7. Use the Correct Oil: Always use the grade of motor oil recommended by Honda for your specific model year. Using a heavier oil can cause extra engine friction.
Comparing the HR-V to Key Competitors
Is the HR-V a leader in its class for fuel efficiency? Here’s a quick look at rivals from the same era.
* vs. Mazda CX-30 (2020-2023): The CX-30 often has similar or slightly better power but its fuel economy is generally very comparable, sometimes a 1-2 mpg less in combined driving depending on the year.
* vs. Toyota Corolla Cross (2022-2023): This is a direct competitor to the newer HR-V. The Corolla Cross hybrid is the efficiency champion, but the standard gas models are very close, with the HR-V sometimes having a slight edge on the highway.
* vs. Kia Seltos (2021-2023): The Seltos offers a turbocharged engine option. Its base engine MPG is similar to the HR-V, but the turbo model typically gets lower fuel economy.
* vs. Subaru Crosstrek (2016-2023): The Crosstrek’s standard AWD means its ratings are usually compared to the HR-V AWD. The Honda often has a 1-3 mpg advantage, especially in highway driving.
The first-gen HR-V (2016-2022) was often a class leader for non-hybrid models. The 2023 HR-V remains competitive, though some rivals now offer hybrid options for superior efficiency.
Cost of Ownership: Fuel Expense Estimates
Let’s translate MPG into actual dollars. Assuming 15,000 miles driven per year and an average gas price of $3.50 per gallon:
* 2022 HR-V FWD (30 mpg combined): About $1,750 per year in fuel.
* 2022 HR-V AWD (28 mpg combined): About $1,875 per year in fuel.
* 2023 HR-V FWD (28 mpg combined): About $1,875 per year in fuel.
* 2023 HR-V AWD (27 mpg combined): About $1,945 per year in fuel.
While the differences seem modest per year, over a 5-year ownership period, choosing FWD over AWD could save you over $500, assuming you don’t need the all-weather capability. The older model can save you a bit more compared to the new one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Which Honda HR-V year gets the best MPG?
A: The 2016-2022 Honda HR-V with front-wheel drive gets the best official EPA ratings at 30 mpg combined. Many owners find it easy to achieve or even exceed this in real-world mixed driving.
Q: Why did the MPG go down for the 2023 HR-V?
A: The 2023 model received a larger 2.0-liter engine (up from 1.8L) to provide more power and better acceleration. It also is a heavier vehicle with updated safety and technology features. This trade-off resulted in slightly lower fuel economy estimates.
Q: Is the HR-V good on gas?
A: Absolutely. Compared to many larger SUVs and even some sedans, all model years of the HR-V are considered very fuel-efficient. It’s one of it’s main selling points for budget-conscious buyers.
Q: Does the AWD system hurt gas mileage a lot?
A: It has a noticeable impact. For the first-generation, AWD lowers the combined rating by about 2 mpg. For the 2023 model, the difference is about 1 mpg. The system adds weight and mechanical complexity, which the engine must work to move.
Q: Can I improve my HR-V’s MPG aftermarket?
A: Be cautious. While high-quality synthetic oil and proper tire inflation help, most “performance” air filters or fuel system mods offer minimal real-world gain and could void your warranty. The best improvements come from changing your driving habits.
Q: How does the HR-V’s gas mileage compare to the Honda CR-V?
A: The HR-V is more efficient. A typical CR-V from these years gets around 28-30 mpg combined, but the HR-V is smaller and lighter, giving it an advantage, especially in city driving where the CR-V’s larger engine uses more fuel.
Choosing a Honda HR-V from the 2016-2023 range means you’re selecting a vehicle with strong fuel efficiency for its class. The first-generation models are standout sippers, while the redesigned 2023 model offers a bit more power and modern features with a small trade-off at the pump. By understanding the ratings, factors at play, and driving efficiently, you can minimize your visits to the gas station and enjoy the HR-V’s practicality for years to come. Always remember to test drive the specific model year your considering to get a feel for how it fits your life.