Comparison - Honda HR-V 2016 - vs - Ford Explorer Limited 2015

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