7 Reasons to Choose Between the 2024 Honda HR-V Sport vs EX-L: Which One is Right for You?
The Honda HR-V is one of the most versatile SUVs you can get for 2024. It’s packed with features performance improvements and tech updates that make it a top choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable subcompact SUV. But what happens when you narrow it down to the 2024 Honda HR-V Sport versus the HR-V EX-L? That’s where things get a little more complex — but in a good way. Both trims have a lot to offer, and depending on your needs you might find yourself gravitating toward one or the other.
This article will dive deep into what makes each of these trims tick the differences that matter and a little fun while we're at it. After all buying a car should be enjoyable not just a list of stats right?
The 2024 Honda HR-V Sport: A Sporty Ride Without Breaking the Bank
Sporty Features You Can't Ignore
Let’s kick off with the HR-V Sport. It’s got this sporty vibe (duh right?) that makes you feel like you’re driving something a little more exciting than your average compact SUV. The 18-inch alloy wheels stand out from the get-go giving the HR-V Sport a more aggressive stance. Pair that with sport pedals and paddle shifters, and you’re getting some fun driving engagement that’s missing in a lot of competitors at this price point.
Exterior Design & Practicality
- 18-inch matte-black alloy wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- Gloss black accents on the grille and side mirrors
- Shark fin antenna (because every good SUV deserves to look a bit like a predator)
The exterior doesn’t scream luxury but it shouts youthful sporty and modern. The HR-V Sport is designed for people who don’t want to blend in but also don’t want to drive something too flashy. It’s the right mix of style and practicality.
Performance: Is It All About Speed?
Nope — the HR-V Sport isn’t a race car but it still gives you a satisfying drive. Under the hood you'll find the same 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that comes standard across the HR-V lineup. It delivers 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque — enough to get around town and handle freeway speeds without too much fuss.
However, don’t expect to blow past any Corvettes on the highway.
“It's got a bit of get-up but it’s not a rocket. You’re not going to feel a turbo kick you back into your seat,” says Alex Collantes an automotive enthusiast who's driven both trims.
But for most buyers? That’s just fine. The HR-V Sport is all about balance. You get decent power without sacrificing fuel economy (estimated at 26 city / 32 highway MPG) and smooth handling that makes daily commutes enjoyable.
Tech & Interior: Simple Yet Effective
Inside, the HR-V Sport keeps things fairly minimalistic but not boring. You’ll get a 7-inch digital gauge cluster along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. That’s right — even on the Sport trim you’re not missing out on key tech.
Interior Highlights:
- Cloth seats with orange stitching (nice touch for that “sporty” look)
- A 6-speaker sound system
- Push-button start
- Heated front seats (because who doesn’t love a warm seat in winter?)
It's not flashy but it’s functional and comfortable enough for most buyers. Let’s be real you’re not buying a Ferrari. You’re buying something that will reliably get you from point A to B — and the HR-V Sport does that while giving you a little flair along the way.
Drawbacks: What Could Be Better?
While the HR-V Sport delivers on a lot of fronts there are some areas where it falls a little short. For one the power output is just okay — it’s not bad but don’t expect a thrill every time you hit the gas pedal. Also the interior materials while decent aren’t anything to write home about.
- “It’s kind of like wearing your favorite pair of jeans,” Alex Collantes says. “They’re comfortable but no one’s mistaking them for designer.”
Oh and storage space — it's a bit tight for families planning on lots of road trips. You can fold the rear seats down but even then it’s not exactly cavernous back there.
The 2024 Honda HR-V EX-L: A Little Extra Luxury for Not Much More
So what happens when you step up to the HR-V EX-L? You’re basically getting all the good stuff from the Sport but with a more refined luxurious touch. It’s perfect for those who like their SUVs with a bit of leather a dash of tech and maybe just a sprinkle of premium features.
Stepping Up in Style: Exterior & Interior Upgrades
Where the HR-V Sport tries to play it cool the EX-L is like the fancier older sibling who has their life together. The 17-inch wheels might be a step down in size but they’re still stylish. Plus the chrome accents make the HR-V EX-L feel more upscale.
Exterior Standouts:
- Power moonroof (for those sunny days or stargazing nights)
- Roof rails
- Heated side mirrors with integrated turn signals
- Rain-sensing wipers
Now the interior? That’s where the EX-L really starts to shine. You’re stepping up from cloth seats to leather-trimmed seats. The leather isn’t the buttery soft kind you'd find in a luxury sedan but it still feels a lot better than the cloth in the Sport. The front seats are also power-adjustable which is a big win for longer drives.
Tech: More Features Than You’d Expect
The HR-V EX-L also ramps things up in the tech department. You’re upgrading from that basic 7-inch screen to a 9-inch touchscreen and guess what? It also comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. No more fumbling with cords every time you hop in the car.
Tech Highlights:
- Wireless charging pad (because we all forget our cables sometimes)
- Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- 8-speaker premium audio system (for all your playlist needs)
And remember that moonroof? It’s not just for show. According to Alex “There’s something about cruising with the sunroof open on a nice day that makes you feel like you’re living your best life.” It’s the little things really.
Performance: Same Engine Different Vibe
One thing you don’t get in the EX-L is a bigger engine. It’s still the same 2.0-liter inline-4 so the 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque are still here. That’s both good and bad.
Good because it means you’re getting the same fuel efficiency (26 MPG city / 32 MPG highway) but bad because well you’re not exactly racing anyone.
But hey if you’re buying the EX-L you’re probably not looking for speed. You’re looking for comfort tech and a smooth drive — which it delivers in spades.
Drawbacks: Because Nothing's Perfect
Alright let's address the elephant in the room. The HR-V EX-L is a bit pricier than the Sport but the added cost doesn’t come with more horsepower. Some drivers might feel a bit cheated here.
“It’s like paying extra for dessert but getting the same slice of cake” Alex quips. “Still delicious but you kinda wanted something more.”
Also while the leather seats are nice they can get pretty toasty in the summer. Be prepared to blast that dual-zone climate control if you park in the sun for too long.
So Which One is Right for You?
Now that we’ve broken down the 2024 Honda HR-V Sport vs EX-L it’s time to figure out which one makes the most sense for you. Here’s the quick lowdown:
Go for the HR-V Sport if:
- You’re on a budget but still want a stylish well-equipped ride
- You like a sporty look without needing all the luxury trimmings
- You don’t mind a cloth interior and a smaller touchscreen
Choose the HR-V EX-L if:
- You love a little more luxury (leather seats power adjustments better tech)
- You want features like a moonroof and a bigger touchscreen
- You’re okay spending a bit more for extra comfort even if it doesn’t come with extra power
Final Thoughts: Which HR-V Should You Drive Home?
At the end of the day both the 2024 Honda HR-V Sport and HR-V EX-L are fantastic options in the subcompact SUV market. You really can’t go wrong with either but it all boils down to what you value most in a car.
Do you want a little more sporty fun with a budget-friendly price tag? Or do you prefer a touch of luxury and tech even if it costs a bit more?
According to Alex Collantes: “You can't go wrong with either choice. The Sport is great for those who want practicality and a bit of edge. The EX-L is for those who enjoy the finer things but don't need a full-on luxury SUV.”
So maybe it’s time to take both for a spin? Just be prepared to fall in love either way.
FAQs
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How does the 2024 HR-V Sport compare to other competitors?
- It's solid with decent handling but might lack the power some rivals offer like the Mazda CX-30.
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Is the HR-V EX-L worth the extra money?
- If you value tech and a more refined interior absolutely! But if you’re looking just for performance maybe not.
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What are the main differences in safety features?
- Both trims come with Honda Sensing, so you’ll get features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control across the board.
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Can you tow with the HR-V?
- Not really. It’s rated for light loads but this isn’t your go-to SUV for heavy towing.
Which HR-V will you choose? The Sport for the thrill of it or the EX-L for a bit of extra class?