Does the Honda HR-V have a power tailgate?

In practice, the HR-V offers a hands-free power tailgate on higher trims in the U.S., while base LX models generally do not. Availability varies by model year and market, so check your specific configuration.

What to know about the feature

The power tailgate lets you open and close the tailgate with a button, a key fob, or a kick/foot sensor beneath the bumper. Some setups also offer height adjustment to make loading easier and may bundle the tailgate with other convenience or technology features. Because trim lines and option packages evolve year to year, it’s important to verify exactly which features are included with the model you’re considering.

In the United States, a typical pattern for recent HR-V generations is outlined below. Before reviewing, note that availability can vary by year and market and may depend on whether a vehicle is equipped with a particular package or Honda Sensing/tech bundle.

• LX: Generally does not include a power tailgate. The tailgate is usually manual.


• Sport: Typically not equipped with a power tailgate by default; some years/markets may offer it as part of a package or as an upgrade.


• EX: Power tailgate is usually available, often tied to mid-level equipment packages.


• EX-L: Power tailgate is commonly included or becomes standard on most model years.

Conclusion: If you want a HR-V with a power tailgate, target EX or EX-L trims (and confirm the exact package for the year you’re interested in), since LX and often Sport typically do not include this feature.

How to confirm on a specific vehicle

To be sure you’re getting a power tailgate, check these practical indicators and sources during the shopping or buying process:

• Look for a tailgate button labeled “Power Tailgate” or a separate tailgate control button on the trunk lid or near the emblem.


• Check the key fob for a dedicated tailgate open/close button and test it if possible.


• Review the vehicle’s original window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet for mention of “Power Tailgate” or “Hands-Free Tailgate.”

If you’re unsure after inspecting the vehicle, ask the dealer for the exact equipment list or a VIN-based options check to confirm whether the power tailgate is installed.

Summary

Overall, the Honda HR-V in recent years commonly offers a hands-free power tailgate on higher trims (EX and EX-L) in the U.S., while base LX models typically do not. Because trim names, packages, and market offerings vary by year, always verify the exact configuration with the dealer or official Honda spec sheets for your specific vehicle.

How do I open the trunk on a Honda HR-V?

Press the tailgate outer handle and lift open the tailgate. If you are carrying the keyless remote, you do not have to unlock the tailgate before opening it. To close the tailgate, grab the inner handle, pull the tailgate down, and push it closed from outside.

Does the Honda HR-V come with a power liftgate?

No, the standard Honda HR-V does not come with a power liftgate, but it is available as an option on some higher trims or as an aftermarket accessory. The power liftgate offers a hands-free, foot-activated opening and closing feature for the rear cargo door.
 
Standard features

• The standard HR-V has a manual liftgate that is opened and closed by hand.
• The key fob for the standard model includes a button to unlock the liftgate, but it does not power it open or closed. 

Power liftgate options

• Available as an upgrade: A power liftgate is available as an optional feature on some higher trims or can be installed as an aftermarket accessory for models from 2014 to 2025. 
• Hands-free operation: The hands-free power liftgate allows you to open the tailgate by simply moving your foot under the rear bumper sensor. 
• Other features: Some power liftgate systems include a "Walkaway Close" feature, allowing you to close the tailgate by walking away from the vehicle, as seen in this YouTube video. 
• Safety features: These systems often include an anti-pinch feature that stops the gate from closing if it senses an obstacle. 

What is a common problem for Honda HR-V?

Common problems reported for the Honda HR-V include issues with paint, loose trim and window gaskets, uncomfortable seats, and infotainment system glitches. Other potential problems include fuel pump failures, steering system issues (particularly with the 2023-2025 models), and problems with the air conditioning system.
 
This video discusses common problems with the Honda HR-V: 52sNexologyYouTube · Sep 19, 2025
Exterior and interior

• Paint: Some owners have reported paint fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking, even on newer models. 
• Trim: Loose interior or exterior trim and moldings are a recurring complaint. 
• Window gaskets: The rubber gaskets around the windows have been reported to become loose or dislodged, leading to wind and water leaks. 
• Rust: Some models have been associated with rust. 

Mechanical and electrical

• Steering: Some 2023-2025 models have a recall for a potentially faulty steering gearbox assembly that can cause sticky or heavy steering. Other models may experience issues with steering racks that can be resolved with a service bulletin. 
• Air conditioning: Issues with the A/C, such as weak airflow or poor cooling, are often linked to refrigerant leaks or a faulty compressor. 
• Starter motor: The start-stop switch can fail, causing a "no-start" condition or a dashboard warning light. 
• Fuel pump: There have been reports and recalls for faulty fuel pumps. 
• Battery: Some owners have needed to replace the battery prematurely. 

Other common issues

• Uncomfortable seats: This is a frequent complaint, with some owners reporting discomfort and pain, particularly on long drives. 
• Infotainment system: Glitches, such as screen freezing, random reboots, and Bluetooth connectivity issues, are common. 
• Transmission: Some models have experienced transmission slipping or other issues. 
• Excessive oil consumption: Some engines may consume more oil than expected. 

You can watch this video for a discussion on the reliability and potential issues with the Honda HR-V, including the transmission: 58sAnother LapYouTube · Oct 23, 2025

What cars have hands-free tailgates?

Many modern vehicles offer a hands-free liftgate, a feature that allows you to open the rear liftgate by kicking your foot under the bumper, provided you have the key fob on you. This is commonly available on models from brands like Toyota (Highlander, RAV4, Sienna), GMC (Acadia), Lincoln, Jeep (Grand Cherokee), Nissan (Murano), and Volvo. Some manufacturers also offer this as a standard feature on their higher trim levels or across their model lineup.
 
This video demonstrates how to use the hands-free liftgate on a Lincoln vehicle: 36sLincolnYouTube · Sep 19, 2024
Examples of vehicles with hands-free liftgates

• Toyota: RAV4, Highlander, and Sienna (available on higher trims)
• GMC: Acadia
• Lincoln: Navigator, among others
• Nissan: Murano and Ariya
• Volvo: XC90 and others
• Jeep: Grand Cherokee
• Hyundai: Tucson and Palisade (available on specific model years)
• Kia: Telluride
• Honda: Pilot and CR-V
• Mazda: CX-9 (available on higher trims)
• Infiniti: QX60