XV has the mechanical edge, bigger engine, side airbags, AWD, and legit 220mm ground clearance. I've seen a few in Australia drive around in muddy terrain and it's pretty impressive considering it's really just an Impreza on stilts.

As for the HR-V, it's mostly just toys, don't like having too many of those in a vehicle. More things that break down in the long run. It's way overpriced for the amount of car you get.