For drivers who desire more versatility and capabilities than a sedan, the subcompact SUV class has many advantages while remaining fuel-efficient and commuter-friendly. With a roomy cabin for five adults and more rear cargo space due to its boxier design, subcompact models are a popular alternative to a regular four-door sedan. With higher ground clearance and a design that maximizes cabin space without detracting from fuel economy, a subcompact SUV can be a great option for city and suburban drivers who need to navigate busy roadways and tight parking spaces. The versatility is enhanced with a roof rack for bringing your bike or kayak with you and leaving room in the back for friends and gear.
Within this class, two standouts have raced to the top: the Honda HR-V and the Toyota C-HR. As we compare these vehicles, we'll let you know why we think the Honda HR-V makes the better pick. So, if you're seeking a used Honda HR-V for sale near North Bergen, read on to discover why you're making such an excellent choice.
Classic Appeal for a Timeless Look
Both Honda and Toyota are legacy automakers who make incredible models that appeal to many drivers. Honda has built a reputation for practicality whereas Toyota will sometimes swing for stylish appeal in order to grab some attention. Although the HR-V and C-HR look similar overall due to their size, the Honda hits the mark for a classic style that doesn't look like it's trying too hard.
Toyota's sport-inspired design is rather busy, with body lines leading to several unnecessary rear-end protrusions that could lead to costly repairs if accidentally backed into an obstruction. The busyness of the C-HR rear bumper, liftgate, and tail lights leaves it looking a little dated for today's drivers. Honda—keeping it classic with clean lines and a traditional SUV look—means you'll always be driving en vogue.
Great Performance and Handling
North Bergen drivers know that when it comes to inclement weather, an all-wheel drivetrain will deliver better stability and traction control in slippery conditions. With the C-HR, Toyota decided to forgo an AWD option and only offer the model in front-wheel drive. For drivers who choose the Honda HR-V, having an AWD option is great for safer driving when winter delivers a snowstorm on the same weekend as your plans to travel with friends. Toyota's comparable model would've fared better if it had included an AWD option.
As far as powertrains, both the Honda and Toyota pack a strong performance under the hood, even so far as delivering a similar output. Both automakers paired their engines with a CVT transmission for smooth shifting. The suspension system is where Honda and Toyota choose different directions at the fork in the road: the HR-V delivers a smoother, more comfortable ride with less road feel and great handling, compared to the C-HR's sport-inspired suspension tuning that gives drivers a firmer ride. In other words, if sporty performance isn't your goal, you might not love the way this particular model handles, and you'd be better off with the HR-V.
A Roomy and Comfortable Cabin
Honda and Toyota have offered comfortable interiors in their lineups since the brands' inceptions—and the HR-V and C-HR models are no exception. However, there is one area where Honda provides something Toyota doesn't: Magic Seats.
Honda installed their Magic Seat system in the HR-V in 2016 and up to the 2022 model year. The rear seat folding system is unique and incredible: beyond the ubiquitous 60/40 fold, you can also slide the lower portion into the floor for a lower flat fold in the cargo area, or you can leave the backrest portion up and flip the lower portion of the seat vertical to place taller vertical cargo (like a large ceramic planter with a tall plant) in a safer position behind the front driver or passenger seats. Although models newer than 2022 do not have that feature, the rear seats still fold 60/40 and flat. Compared to the HR-V, the Toyota C-HR has more limited cargo space due to a rear design more similar to a coupe that doesn't share the boxy SUV quality of the Honda.
Toyota lifted much of the C-HR from a performance-inspired design to give it a sportier appearance and feel. In doing so, the cabin and cargo space have been limited in offering the same headroom and legroom drivers appreciate for long miles on the road. Honda's roomier seating is more comfortable for everyday driving and long road trips.
Similar Tech But Better Fuel Economy
As far as driver assistance features go, you can expect similar technology from both models as standard. For example, the 2022 Honda HR-V and the 2022 Toyota C-HR both come equipped with front collision detection, automatic emergency braking, a lane-keeping aid, and adaptive cruise control. Each model also includes traffic sign recognition as well as automatic high beam dimming. Both Honda and Toyota use state-of-the-art technology to offer these advanced driver assistance features. This category fairly ranks both models in a tie.
These two models are also tied in fuel economy figures, with each offering an EPA-estimated 31 MPG for highway driving.[a] But the key difference is that that Honda rating is for the all-wheel drive model, meaning you get better stability and traction control at each wheel and still enjoy the exact same fuel economy as a front-wheel-drive C-HR model. If you're interested in owning an HR-V with front-wheel drive, you'll be happier with an EPA-estimated 34 MPG on the highway, so you'll save more at the gas pump.[a]
The Honda HR-V Is a Great Choice
For drivers seeking a roomier and more comfortable cabin with cargo space and the versatility of an SUV in an overall package not much larger than a sedan, we believe the Honda HR-V is a great choice. At a similar price point as the Toyota C-HR, as well as having the bonus of the unique rear folding Magic Seats for extra cargo space, the choice of an all-wheel drivetrain with the exact same fuel economy figures, and a classic SUV design, it's hard not to see how the HR-V shines.
The HR-V excels as a fuel-efficient commuting vehicle for everyday driving and offers the comfort and cargo space to take you and your family on longer adventures. We find the all-wheel drivetrain really puts the Honda ahead of the Toyota, and that benefit is especially key when driving in areas that experience winter snow and ice on roadways.
Shop Our Used Inventory to Experience Long-Lasting Value
When you shop our large inventory of used Honda HR-V models, you'll experience big savings on a wonderful SUV that will retain its value longer than the competitor's model. Honda is renowned for building cars and SUVs with quality craftsmanship and durability for busy drivers. Our friendly team is here to listen to your driving requirements and help guide you to a used Honda HR-V model that will provide you with what you need at a price that will save you money. Buying used is a great way to shop budget-conscious and set yourself up for financial success.