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2021 Honda HR-V: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2021 Honda HR-V gets a very light update, led by new alloy-wheel designs for the Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring trims. Otherwise, it carries over without major mechanical, cabin, safety, or technology changes.
About the 2021 Honda HR-V
1st generation (2016-2022), late-cycle update year before the 2022 carryover and 2023 redesign
Honda positions the HR-V as a right-sized crossover that blends SUV usefulness with hatchback-like flexibility. Its standout draw is the versatile 60/40 split Magic Seat rear bench and low cargo floor, which make it unusually adaptable for a small vehicle. Honda also leans on easy everyday driving, good fuel economy, available AWD, and a simple, space-efficient cabin, making the HR-V a practical choice for commuters and small families who value versatility more than outright speed.
The LX keeps things simple with a flexible Magic Seat, while Sport adds a sharper look plus a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. EX is the everyday sweet spot with heated seats, a moonroof, and Honda’s driver-assist suite; EX-L adds leather, while Touring tops the range with standard AWD, navigation, a power driver’s seat, and LED lighting.
What changed, by category
Styling
Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring receive new alloy-wheel designs. Sport also gains rear privacy glass as standard equipment.
2021 Honda HR-V specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 1.8 Liter | 4-Cyl, i-VTEC, 1.8 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, CVT w/Sport Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Sport Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Sport Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Sport Mode | Automatic, CVT w/Sport Mode |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 2WD | AWD | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 28 mpg | 27 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 34 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft | 127 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 55.9 cu-ft | 58.8 cu-ft | 55.9 cu-ft | 57.6 cu-ft | |
| Rear Legroom | 39.3 in | 39.3 in | 39.3 in | 39.3 in | 39.3 in |
| Seats | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| 4-Wheel Disc Brakes | |||||
| Adaptive Cruise Control | |||||
| Alarm System | |||||
| Anti-Lock Brakes | |||||
| Automatic Emergency Braking | |||||
| Automatic Headlights | |||||
| Automatic High Beams | |||||
| Blindspot Sensors | |||||
| Cruise Control | |||||
| Hill Start Assist | |||||
| Lane Departure Warning | |||||
| Rear Parking Sensors | |||||
| Rear View Camera | |||||
| Side View Cameras | |||||
| Stability Control | |||||
| Traction Control | |||||
| Alloy Wheels | |||||
| Fog Lights | |||||
| Heated Mirrors | |||||
| LED Daytime Running Lights | |||||
| LED Tail Lights | |||||
| Power Moonroof | |||||
| Power Mirrors | |||||
| Privacy Glass | |||||
| Rear Spoiler | |||||
| Roof Rails | |||||
| AM/FM Radio | |||||
| Bluetooth | |||||
| Satellite Radio | |||||
| Smartphone Interface | |||||
| Touch Screen Monitor | |||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | |||||
| Automatic Air Conditioning | |||||
| Folding Rear Seat | |||||
| Heated Front Seats | |||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | |||||
| Leather Seats | |||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||||
| Power Locks | |||||
| Power Steering | |||||
| Power Windows | |||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||||
| Remote Start | |||||
| Remote Keyless Entry | |||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | |||||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2021 Honda HR-V compared with the 2020 model?
The main change is cosmetic: Sport, EX, EX-L, and Touring get new alloy-wheel designs. Sport also adds rear privacy glass as standard equipment, while the rest of the HR-V largely carries over.
Is the 2021 Honda HR-V a redesigned model?
No. The 2021 HR-V is a light, late-cycle update within the first generation, not a full redesign.
Did the 2021 Honda HR-V receive any engine or transmission changes?
No. The 2021 HR-V retains the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and continuously variable automatic transmission used for 2020, with no change to AWD availability.
Which 2021 Honda HR-V trims have the driver-assist safety suite?
The EX, EX-L, and Touring trims have Honda’s driver-assist safety suite. The LX and Sport do not receive it for 2021.
Which 2021 Honda HR-V trim has standard AWD?
Touring is the only 2021 HR-V trim with standard AWD. It is also the most fully equipped version, with navigation, a power driver’s seat, leather seating, and LED headlights.
2021 Honda HR-V Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 Honda HR-V.
4.0
2021 Honda HR-V
(1,709 reviews)
“Easy to drive, easy to park and maneuver. A little small and cost is a little high.”
“Great vehicle, but up and down seat adjustment could be improved; especially on the passenger side.”