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Japanese automaker Honda has produced some iconic SUV nameplates. Nameplates like the CR-V made a lasting impression on the market. The brand has decided to redesign its subcompact SUV and compact SUV for 2023, shaking up the small SUV space. Are the two best redesigns of 2023 going to be Honda SUVs?

The 2023 Honda HR-V is all grown up

The Honda HR-V is finally done with its awkward teenage phase. The nameplate has matured into a competitor after years of subpar ratings and reviews.

The 2023 Honda HR-V is a major improvement over previous model years. It’s likely the best HR-V that the brand has produced yet.

The 2022 Honda HR-V was underpowered, and its ride quality left a lot to be desired. It wasn’t as exciting to drive as rivals, and the IIHS gave it a poor side crash test rating. The 2023 HR-V has better driving dynamics than previous model years, comfier seats, and a more modern exterior design. Its redesign has earned it better overall scores from several automotive publications, including Car and Driver.

The 2023 Honda HR-V starts at $23,800. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to make 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The subcompact SUV achieves 26 miles per gallon in the city and 32 miles per gallon on the highway.

The 2023 Honda CR-V is proving that the CR-V isn’t going anywhere

The small SUV vehicle segment is extremely competitive. Nameplates like the Hyundai Tucson and Mazda CX-5 have become extremely popular. Toyota and Honda need to keep innovating to stay ahead of the competition.

The Honda CR-V has been completely redesigned for the 2023 model year. It starts at $31,110. The CR-V uses a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine to make 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. It gets 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway.

The 2023 Honda CR-V comes with more standard features than previous model years. It comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The small SUV also comes standard with a larger standard 7.0-inch infotainment system. The 2023 CR-V features standard blind-spot warning, a rear-seat reminder system, and a driver monitoring system.

Honda’s small SUV is easily one of the best new small SUVs for 2023. It will compete with the best in its segment thanks to its redesign. The 2023 Honda CR-V may even have what it takes to topple the Toyota RAV4 from its throne.

Honda’s new SUVs are playing to win

A blue 2023 Honda CR-V small SUV is driving on the road.
The 2023 Honda CR-V | Honda

Honda may have the two best 2023 redesigns because both nameplates benefit greatly from their upgrades. The CR-V needed a redesign to stay relevant in an evolving segment. The Honda HR-V needed a redesign to rise from obscurity after years of being underwhelming. Now, both nameplates have an opportunity to shake up their respective segments.

The 2023 Honda HR-V and 2023 Honda CR-V are already some of the best redesigns of 2023 before the year has begun. Will another automaker rise to the challenge, or does Honda deserve a Most Improved award?