The Car Auto Review: Honda HR-V 2015 Car Auto Review

Good looking, fun and unrivaled interior space all terms that Honda itself has claimed embody its new HR-V. It also claims that back in 1999 the HR-V was the model that created the now-booming crossover segment and it has said that the latest-generation will compete directly with the Nissan Qashqai. Now, so far in 2015 Honda has revamped its Civic and CR-V models and has done so with aplomb, so let’s see what the latest HR-V model has to shout about.

Exterior wise, the HR-V has clearly combines the ingredients of an SUV and a coupe, with a sloped roof-line and yet a muscular stance, similar to that of its larger CR-V sibling. Honda is making a big deal of interior practicality with the new HR-V, specifically on boot size, and with 470 liters on offer it trumps the Nissan Qashqai. Honda’s magic seats are also offered as The first thing that caught my attention in the cabin was the now-revamped Honda Connect system, which looks very clean-cut, it was certainly a welcomed feature on the new Civic and CR-V models.

All-round interior quality is very good, with soft touch materials conveying an upmarket feel and if you go for the flagship EX model, you get things like full leather upholstery and a panoramic glass roof. An ongoing trend in the crossover segment is driving dynamics falling by the waist side – and unfortunately the HR-V has traits of that as there isn’t much feedback through the steering wheel. But what it lacks in fun it comes up for in comfort, with a spongy suspension and brilliant sound deadening from the outside world. Highlights in the engine range include a 118bhp 1.6-litre diesel that emits just 104g/km of CO2 and returns a claimed combined figure of 71mpg. Not only is this engine the most efficient, but it is also the quickest in the HR-V range, boasting a zero to 62mph sprint time of just 10 seconds.

The diesel is only available in the manual though, with the CVT automatic reserved for the 128bhp 1.5-liter petrol options. It is clear that Honda has acknowledged the stiff crossover competition with the new HR-V and focused on making it practical and stylish it doesn’t stand out when it comes to driving dynamics though.