Honda HR-V 1.6 i-DTEC (2016) review

Honda dealers can be excused for holding their heads in their hands after the brand took the decision not to replace the original HR-V after it ceased production 10 years ago only to then see all its competitors launch vehicles into what has become the fastest growing new car sector.

The original HR-V, launched in 1999, was a quirky looking car which defied classification. It mixed the practicality of a hatchback with the elevated driving position of a 4X4 but all in a compact footprint; a formula which proved to be ahead of its time.

Last year Honda dusted off the HR-V nameplate and re-entered the sub-compact crossover sector but has added a welcome twist as it is new entrant, based on the latest generation Jazz platform, measures 4,294mm from bumper to bumper; 159mm longer than the Nissan Juke ostensibly its main target.

It is also roomier inside than the bigger Qashqai, enabling dealers to sell against both models.

Clearly Honda’s years on the crossover side-lines have not been wasted. Its designers and engineers have run the rule over all the competition to deliver something quite different. This is immediately apparent with the cabin where the carmaker has won the space race by delivering a roomy interior which comfortably seats a full complement of five. This makes the car better suited to young families, than some of its competitors, although even tall adults travelling in the rear have commented on the generous head, knee and leg room.

The longer wheelbase also differentiates the HR-V stylistically. It looks much sleeker than the competition with its attractive crease lines providing an aerodynamic stance and the concealed rear door handles adding to coupe look and feel. The attractive five-spoke, 17-inch alloys are a neat finishing touch.

Our model is in top of the range EX trim so is fully loaded with bells, whistles and creature comforts. These include a panoramic glass sunroof, which tilts and slides; full leather interior; smart entry; reversing camera; dual zone climate control; and Honda CONNECT infotainment system. The latter, which is operated by touchscreen or from the steering wheel, has an over-fiddly interface which could do with the smartphone mimicking approach used in other new generation cars. However, full marks to Honda for including a CD player, a rarity in new cars these days but much appreciated by this driver.

Safety features include Honda’s Advanced Driver Assist System, which uses radar sensors, plus forward- and rear-facing cameras, to warn the driver of a possible collision. This sometimes feels a little over-zealous, especially on bends where the car in front is turning right, but is nevertheless a welcome addition.

Our model is powered by Honda’s new 1.6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine which is bedding in nicely and has so far delivered an average of 52.4mpg; not bad for its first tank full which was heavy on town driving. With its 120PS output the engine is responsive and picks up quickly through the gears although it’s a little too vocal at low speeds.

Best of all, the HR-V has the driving characteristics of a hatchback rather than the stodginess of some of its crossover rivals. The ride is on the comfortable side of firm and the steering is pin sharp and responsive. This all makes for an engaging car to drive and a comfortable one to be driven in.

Highlights so far include the excellent six-speed manual transmission which boasts short throws more akin to a roadster than a crossover and which adds a further degree of driver engagement.

We also like the Honda’s so-called “Magic Seat” system, lifted from the Jazz, which cleverly enables the rear seats to fold totally flat to create a long and wide load bay, which has already been used to move bulky DIY gear.

The HR-V is an important model for Honda as it leads a product led revival which sees the carmaker transitioning from having one of the oldest showroom line-ups to one of the newest. The model is also a welcome addition to the sub-compact crossover sector where it adds a new level of versatility thanks to its generous interior dimensions. It also looks the part. For all these reasons we’re looking forward to seeing how our test model shapes up over the coming months.