Road tested by Hugh Maguire.
We are all very familiar with the popular Honda Civic but you may be surprised to learn that the HR-V is actually currently their best selling model here in Ireland.
I was not a particular fan of the previous HR-V as I felt it just did not hit the mark. This new model however changes all that. Its impressive!
It seems the popularity of these compact SUV’s continues to grow. Its a crowded market now with many options for buyers to choose from the most recent being the new Nissan Qashqai to name but a few.
So the new Honda HR-V is a compact SUV available in two wheel drive only. There are four trim levels to choose from, Elegance, Advance, Advance Style, and Advance Style Plus. All are powered by the same e hybrid powertrain with two powerful but compact electric motors that work alongside a 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine with a total power output of some 131 PS.
This week I am road testing the Advance style version. So what’s it like?
So how does it look?
The new HR-V while quite smart looking really does not stand out in the way one of its main rivals the Toyota C-HR does. So I suppose its not really a head turner, but does it need to be? Its tidy lines and details such as the black roof and two tone alloy wheels do give it a touch of individuality.
What is it like inside?
It is inside that the new HR-V really starts to shine! The cabin of this new model really is top class and in my opinion the new HR-V is a class leader in this area.
The quality of materials and the execution of the design is excellent. There is a premium feel to everything right down to the knurled chrome vent controls.
The new HRV also comes very well equipped with creature comforts but also a host of safety kit from Honda’s respected Honda Sensing system. The new HRV e-hybrid also has a multi view camera system which displays a full 360 degree view of the cars surroundings, other nice items include heated seats, heated steering wheel, a tinted glass sunroof, wireless charging and much more.
The driving position places the driver higher up in the car than I might like but many will appreciate this as it offers a commanding view of the road ahead. Room upfront is good and the rear is surprisingly spacious for a car of the size. Its a very roomy four seater but five would be tighter. The boot is a decent size and accessed via the electric rear tailgate.
What is under the bonnet?
Basically a 1.5 litre petrol engine which in combination with a battery and two small electric motors make this a very efficient self charging hybrid. For me the self charging hybrid is the way to go. No range anxiety, no plugging in and its frugal too burning just 5.6 litres of petrol per 100km over my week behind the wheel. It will run in EV mode quite a lot particularly in city driving. The only vice I found was that the engine sounds harsh when asked to accelerate other than that its a good package.
Will I enjoy driving it?
Yes I think so. The combination of good handling, good performance, and plenty of standard kit makes the new HR-V a very pleasant place in which to travel. The ride can feel a tad firm over poorer road surfaces but not unduly so and there is quite a bit more road noise than I would like. Its particularly sensitive to the more coarse tarmac where tyre roar becomes prevalent. Other than that the HR-V drives very well.
Hugh’s Verdict.
Prices start at €41,750 for the Elegance model. The Advance Style version on test here costs €47,500.
Overall then I like the new HR-V. It really is the most premium offering in the segment at this price point. Another class act from Honda!