Honda is well known for producing efficient, fun-to-drive and fun-to-own vehicles at affordable price points. The new 2016 HR-V is the latest of the breed.
Given the continued growth, both in sales and girth, of its popular CR-V, Honda saw an opportunity to create a new entry-level crossover SUV model. The result is the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V. If Honda's Pilot is "papa" and its CR-V is "mama," then the HR-V should fit perfectly within the family as the "baby."
Being the tyke of the family doesn't mean there's a lack of utility, though. Just like the subcompact Fit hatchback on which it's based, the HR-V has what Honda calls a "Magic Seat," which is a configurable rear seat that gives the HR-V a distinctive ability to take on bulky or long cargo items with relative ease. The HR-V also provides high fuel economy, a sporty driving feel, available all-wheel drive and a solid collection of tech and convenience features for the money. If you want a crossover SUV but have found the mainstays a little too big or expensive, Honda's HR-V could very well meet your needs.
Pros Roomy interior and seating Versatile cargo loading thanks to unique rear seat High fuel economy Excellent outward visibility
Cons Underwhelming acceleration Touchscreen interface can be frustrating to use and lacks full Android integration.
The Honda HR-V takes on the similar-sized Nissan Juke SUV, but with the benefit of a bigger interior
With a claim to having invented the original mini-crossover SUV 10 years before the Nissan Juke emerged, the Honda’s HR-V ought to be good, and it is. Attractively designed without being overtly trendy, it’s unusually spacious too. The HR-V offers plenty of equipment and is well built and nice to sit in, whether you’re up front or in the roomy rear seats. There’s a decently sized and practical boot, which isn’t always the case in the style-focused mini-SUV sector – just look at the Nissan Juke.
It’s not the cheapest in its sector, but an economical pair of petrol and diesel engine options mean running costs will be low, and Honda’s reputation for cast-iron reliability is reassuring too. On the road, it performs well, although it’s more comfort than sport-orientated – which won’t be a bad thing from the family car buyer’s perspective. Family owners will also appreciate the Honda ‘Magic Seats’, which flip-up cinema style to significantly increase the load-lugging options.
Pros Stylish design, roomy cabin, clever folding rear seats
Cons Dated sat-nav, no four-wheel drive option, appears expensive against chief rivals
The 2016 Honda HR-V is a new addition to the lineup and slots under the CR-V in size
The 2016 Honda HR-V is a small two-row crossover available in front- and all-wheel-drive configurations
For those looking for a practical and flexible utility vehicle, the 2016 HR-V is an excellent choice thanks to its Magic Seats and surprising cabin space for passengers and gear. In a First Drive review, we were impressed by the HR-V’s sharp interior, which utilizes plenty of soft-touch materials, and provides plenty of versatility thanks to the second-row Magic Seats. The crossover’s handling is also noteworthy because it’s agile and maneuverable, making it easy to get through tight spaces in urban areas. However, on the road, the cabin lets it too much noise and gets loud rather quickly
Pros Surprisingly spacious and versatile cabin for a cute ute Nimble and agile without sacrificing ride comfort Excellent fuel economy
Cons All-wheel drive reduces cargo space Navigation only available on the range-topping model Too much road noise
The 2016 Honda HR-V smartly trades a little of the Fit's fuel economy for exuberant styling, more headroom, and optional all-wheel drive
The HR-V's shape is interesting if a little busy; the cockpit's styled and finished better than in the Fit
Ride quality is the HR-V's best performance attribute; power is just adequate from the 4-cylinder and CVT.
Honda extracts an amazing amount of rear-seat space and storage room from the HR-V
The HR-V gets top crash-test scores from the NHTSA, but the IIHS begs to differ.
From Bluetooth streaming audio to touchscreen controls to LaneWatch cameras, the HR-V ticks the most important feature boxes
Fuel economy is at the top of the small-SUV class, with EPA ratings of up to 31 mpg combined.
Pros Perky little shape Magic Seat's clever, endearing There's still a manual on the order sheet Standard rearview camera and Bluetooth Absorbent, composed ride
Cons Mid-tempo acceleration Average handling Styling might be a little busy
