Honda HR-V Review

Honda introduced the HR-V SUV in 2015 and it is the second generation to wear the HR-V badge, the first model being introduced back in 1999.

According to their marketing team, the new H-RV combines the lines of a coupe with the robustness of an SUV.

It takes on the likes of the ever popular Nissan Qashqai and Skoda’s Yeti a tough market to crack with more and more models entering the segment including the Mazda CX-3.

All models feature City-Brake Active as standard, from the ‘SE’ grade up all models are equipped with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Intelligent-Speed Limiter with Traffic Sign Recognition and Land Departure Warning.

Although it has the styling of an SUV there is no option for four-wheel drive should you have the need.

What we tested

We tested the Honda HR-V 1.6 i-DTEC EX Manual finished in Crystal Black Pearl (£525 option) with an on the road price of £26,055 plus the paint at the time of testing.

Driving and Performance

There is a choice of a 1.5 i-VTEC 130PS petrol engine or the 1.6 i-DTEC diesel producing 120 PS. -The petrol engine can be specified with a CVT transmission otherwise you will receive a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Performance on paper is similar - 0-62 mph in 10.7 seconds - petrol / 10.5 seconds - diesel with a top speed of 119.3 mph for both engines. Figures may vary depending on spec, etc.

According to official data, the petrol is capable of 49.6 mpg on the combined cycle, compare d to 68.9 mpg for the diesel (both EX models).

We were achieving around 52 mpg on mixed driving routes which increased to near 60 mpg on the open road. The stop/start technology is easy to switch off, if like some you find it intrusive, but for once we did not feel the need with the HR-V as it isn’t particularly intrusive.

You will need to do the maths to see what engine suits your needs bearing in mind you are paying an extra £1750 for the privilege of diesel power, what we can say purchase price aside we would go for the diesel over the petrol as it is simply more fun to drive with better fuel economy.

The 1.6 i-DTEC diesel is a joy to drive, and remains punchy if you keep the revs on the boil, which is ok as the standard six-speed gearbox is precise and a pleasure to use.

We found the electric power steering was perfectly acceptable, only commenting that it felt a little over assisted at low speeds. Even through ‘B’ road corners the HR-V remains composed, though it doesn’t have the ultimate dynamics of perhaps the Nissan Qashqai, we doubt many would complain.

The ride can be a little crashy with some pot holes transmitted back into the cabin and we did comment on the road noise at speed but engine noise seemed fairly well in check.

Overall we really liked it.