KEEP IT SIMPLE
The choice is uncomplicated for buyers looking at Honda’s new HR-V range
VALUE
Some brands offer vast choices within their compact SUV line-ups. Honda has taken the keep-it-simple approach for its new HR-V, with a choice between petrol-only VI-X or better equipped e: HEV L hybrid.
The VI-X we tested is priced at $36,700 drive-away (prices are fixed) for any of the five colours. Standard equipment includes smartkey entry, a digital instrument cluster, 18-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors front and rear, adaptive cruise control and a rear camera that has three different views. There’s also a 9.0-inch infotainment screen incorporating wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto. But there’s no wireless phone charging and the plastic steering wheel on this VI-X is out of step with the premium price.
There’s also no spare tyre, with only a foam storage separator beneath the floor of the compact boot.
COMFORT
The HR-V prioritises style over space with a coupe-inspired body that conceals the rear door handles.
There are also some interesting design touches, including the body-coloured slatted grille. That style continues to the cabin where there’s a user-friendly smattering of buttons and dials and the touchscreen is positioned high on the dash.
The dark presentation is classy and there are some useful storage binnacles in the centre console, as well as easy access to three USB ports in the front (there are none in the rear).
Space up front is good and the sporty silhouette makes for a cocooned feel. Leg room is surprisingly generous in the rear by small ruling out a fifth occupant. There are no rear air vents.
SAFETY
Active safety includes lane-keep assist, speedsign recognition and auto emergency braking but blind-spot warning is only fitted to the more expensive hybrid.
DRIVING
The HR-V VI-X has a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine with modest outputs, just 89kw and 145Nm. That’s less than the car it replaces, although it is relatively efficient, using a claimed 5.8 litres per 100km. Performance is helped by a CVT auto that constantly adjusts the drive ratio to tap into the best the engine has to offer. It works well, although the revs rise if you want to up the tempo. You’ll occasionally have to be vigorous with your right foot if you want to match pace with traffic, especially once hills or freeway speeds enter the equation.
Through corners the HR-V is composed and reassuring, with good grip levels. A hill descent control system (usually used when driving down steep hills off-road) is optimistic, given the HR-V only drives its front wheels.
ALTERNATIVES HYUNDAI KONA ELITE, FROM ABOUT $35,700 DRIVE-AWAY
Solid all-rounder and sharp pricing for a car that packs in leather and Harman Kardon audio. Cabin lacks flair and engine is nothing special.
MAZDA CX-30 G20 PURE, FROM ABOUT $33,700 DRIVE-AWAY
Smart presentation and generous smattering of gear teams with solid driving manners.
TOYOTA C-HR GXL, FROM ABOUT $35,000 DRIVE-AWAY
Diminutive 1.2-litre turbo works nicely with CVT auto, although it needs premium unleaded. Sharp styling and solid dynamics, but side vision in the rear is marginal.
VERDICT
Only seats four and lacks the driving fizz and value to stand out in a busy SUV segment.