Introducing Honda’s all-new subcompact crossover, the HR-V (non car-nerds: all-new means this car has never before existed, more here)
In Honda’s lineup, this HR-V is larger than the Fit, but smaller than the CRV.
Honda invited my blog to test it out in Miami, FL (more about that here.)
1.8L 4-cyl CVT engine
141 hp
127 lb.ft of torque
Transmissions: 6-spd manual and AWD
Starting at: low $20,000s
Manual! Nice one Honda.
I tested both, and while driving impressions are embargoed until April 30th, what I will say is: it drives like a Honda, that is a compliment.
Clockwise from top left:
– steering wheel controls, and a clean instrument cluster
– driver’s door controls
– good-looking elongated vents eh
– a minimal centre console
Before beginning the design process, Honda conducted extensive research and found buyers wanted the styling of a coupe, with the utility of an SUV. I’d have given up at that point, that’s a total dichotomy.
But Honda pulled it off. For more on how, I interviewed Hayato Mori, Honda’s senior Product Planning Manager, read it on Autonet.
A dedicated phone area – storage, and all the outlets.
Here comes the one bad thing… can you spot it?
Missing is a hard button for volume control. There’s one on the steering wheel, but nothing replaces a knob to quickly decrease the stereo’s volume.
But if that’s my biggest complaint, that’s nothing.
Plus the rear seats more than make up for it, and are a big part of what will separate this HR-V from its competitors: Honda’s Magic Seats.
Same seats found in the Fit.
They fold down practically flat (a rarity), and when in the up position, massive cargo will slide inside.
Available in 3 trims – LX, EX, and EX-L
The LX standard list of features is strong: heated front seats and mirrors, , 3 power outlets, body colour handles and mirrors, hill start assist, a backup camera with 3 angles (see animated gif here), Econ mode, and all riding on 17″ alloy wheels.
Bump up to the second trim – EX – for a moonroof, LaneWatch, side mirror turn signals and keyless entry.
The EX-L top trim provides leather-wrapped steering wheel and seating trim, navigation, XM radio and a bunch of en-vogue driving aids I’ll never get behind. Choose the base or mid-level trim, forget this trim.
Prediction: this HR-V is going to dominate the segment. The styling is sharp (look at that aggressive grille), the functionality of the rear seats, it’s a Honda (reliable and fun to drive), and it’s available in manual come ON.
Competitors: Nissan Juke, Kia Soul, Mazda CX-3, Chevrolet Trax, Jeep Renegade
The HR-V goes on sale this spring, with pricing announced then.
Blog tag = Honda HR-V
