The Honda HR-V, all-new last year, is unchanged for 2017.The HR-V uses one of Honda's clever innovations, the so-called Magic Seat that the company also features in the related Fit hatchback. The seat has flip-up rear seat cushions that, when raised, create a tall and narrow cargo area between the front and rear seats that's great for things such as a bicycle or a flat-screen TV. With all the seats in place, there's suitable space for average-size adults, too. Besides the HR-V's flexibility, it also benefits from high fuel economy and an unobstructed outward view.
Pros Easily fits average-sized adults in front and back Clever cargo solutions make it more versatile than rivals Fuel economy figures are better than most competitors Outward visibility is excellent
Cons Unimpressive power output results in lackluster acceleration Infotainment system is not user-friendly There's an abundance of engine noise and vibration
Think of the 2017 Honda HR-V as a Fit with all-wheel drive and a little more headroom. It's not as fun as it could be, but it makes a lot of sense. The 2017 Honda HR-V is a relatively new entry into the small SUV category, but it cemented its standing as the segment's practicality-oriented choice early on thanks to Honda's almost religious devotion to interior packaging.
Pros Perky body Clever Magic Seat offers great flexibility High level of standard features Manual transmission offered Absorbent, composed ride
Cons Won't win a drag race So-so safety scores Lacks some safety tech Not as fun to drive as Hondas used to be
The 2017 Honda HR-V ranks 1 out of 12 Subcompact SUVs. The 2017 Honda HR-V ranks near the top of our subcompact SUV list thanks to its spacious cabin, quality interior, smooth ride, and excellent cargo space. This cargo space is highlighted by Honda's rear Magic Seat, which allows for multiple configurations. The HR-V also garners ample overall praise from professional auto reviewers.
Pros Flexible cargo space Spacious rear seats Quiet cabin
Cons Cumbersome available touch screen Lackluster engine
Coming soon to a Pepperdine parking lot near you: the 2018 Jaguar E-Pace.
Pros Gorgeous exterior True torque vectoring Planted, confident drive Efficient interior space Some bits borrowed from F-Type
Cons the materials don’t scream luxury Priced close to the F-Pace Lagging automatic Gruff-sounding engine
The Jaguar E-Pace brings the British brand’s trademark style to the ever-expanding segment of small luxury crossovers. A turbo 2.0-liter inline-four makes 246 hp and has all-wheel drive and a nine-speed automatic transmission.
Pros Excellent road manners, comfortable for the driver plus one.
Cons Snug back seat; no, the I-Pace is the electric one.
We recommend the P250 E-Pace SE for its balance between cost and features. This model comes with the base engine, which puts out a respectable 246 horsepower, has standard all-wheel drive, and is packed full of features such as a power tailgate, 14-way power leather seats with memory function, an 11-speaker premium audio system, and a suite of advanced driving and parking aids.
PROS Ample power from turbocharged four-cylinder engines Relatively spacious accommodations Appealing mix of standard and optional luxury features Striking design from the inside out
CONS Highest cost of entry in the luxury compact segment It's the heavyweight of the class at more than 4,000 pounds Ride quality can be harsh in some configurations with bigger wheels
