The Honda FR-V
Published: 15th July 2004
Honda FR-V
Another thing that sets the FR-V apart is the quality and style of its cabin. Forget compact MPV, think more along the lines of executive saloon; just because you need practicality doesn’t mean you have to forego life’s niceties.
As well as being handsomely equipped, the FR-V is also crammed with safety features. All six seats have three-point seat belt fixings, while the centre front seat and the two outer rear seats have ISOFIX child seat mounts. Additionally, the front seats have pre-tensioners and load limiters. As an extra aid to child safety, the central front seat moves 270mm further back than the outer pair; when travelling with a child in the front, Honda recommends that the seat is moved to its rearmost position. Full-length curtain airbags provide overall cabin protection while in the front of the FR-V there are twin dual-stage airbags in the facia and side airbags in the two outside front seats.
The FR-V simply wouldn’t be a Honda if it weren’t also fun to drive. Its wide track promotes stability, agility and good steering response. The track geometry reduces the FR-V’s roll centre, enabling the car to be fitted with softer springs than would be the case if the springs were also being used to limit body roll, thus ensuring that it’s comfortable as well as entertaining.
Contributing to the FR-V’s driving pleasure is its range of engines. At launch there will be a choice of two petrol engines: a 125 PS (92 kW) 1.7 litre SOHC VTEC unit (mated to a 5-speed manual transmission ) and a 150 PS (110 kW) 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC unit (mated to a 6-speed manual transmission). In 2005, they will be joined by Honda’s acclaimed 2.2 litre i-CTDi diesel engine mated to a 6-speed manual transmission.
With sales planned to start this November, the FR-V takes the concept of the compact MPV onto another level of sophistication and desirability.
Honda FR-V
Our Honda FR-V Guide lists the full specification of the current UK FR-V range, including car prices, fuel consumption, dimensions and other vital data.
Price Range: £16,480 - £20,090
Body Style:
Fuel:
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Models in the range: 6
We have road tested the Honda FR-V, to read our in-depth car review:
Honda FR-V Review - Oct 2005
Our Car Buyer’s Guide covers all of the UK’s major new cars and includes CO2 ratings and car insurance groups. Data updated on the 21st Sep 2008
