Honda HR-V Quick Review

TELL ME ABOUT THE CAR

This is Honda’s small SUV – a brand new car and very different to its boxier predecessor of 16 years ago. While Honda has struggled in Australian sales, the stylish HR-V may be the answer as it’s packed with equipment, versatile thanks to Honda’s Magic Seats and more spacious than many of its competitors.

STRENGTHS

• Versatility is what the HR-V is all about. It features those Magic Seats, also available in the Honda Jazz. They’re basically a middle row which folds completely flat but also be put upright to create more floor-to-roof space. The system has four configurations: Tall Mode, Long Mode, Utility Mode and Refresh Mode.
• Honda’s mini SUV comes packed with standard features like a reversing camera, tyre deflation warning system and even an HDMI port. As you up-spec to the VTi-S and VTi-L, the HR-V gets fancier interiors and more safety features.
• The cabin is attractive and Honda has used quality textiles inside. For its price, the finishes are good, albeit simple, but in a good way.

WEAKNESSES

• The cushioning on the front seat is not overly comfortable and can get even less so on long road trips. The flat seats don’t offer a great deal of support, but then this is an individual preference, so make sure you try it out for yourself.
• Unlike some of its competitors, there’s no all-wheel-drive version of the HR-V, which lets the range down a little. It also misses out on the fuel efficiency of a diesel engine, which is also an option available in some rivals in the segment.
• Refinement could be improved. The HR-V has a lack of torque and also high road noise.

ANY RIVALS I SHOULD CONSIDER?

If it’s a small SUV you’re after, then the Mazda CX-3 and Mitsubishi ASX are currently the most popular. The Subaru XV and Suzuki Vitara are also worth comparing, with the option of AWD and a turbocharged engine also offered in the Fiat 500X.

Click here to read the full review on the Honda HR-V range.