A CLOSER LOOK: 2021 HONDA HR-V LX-AWD

CARGO

The amount of space and versatility of the back cargo area was important for Robinson when deciding on the HR-V. With the fold-down 60/40 split second-row seat, the HR-V can open to 1665 litres of cargo space.

“I really like how the back seats can recline so the entire back is completely flat for my dog,” Robinson said. “It’s also easy to flip back up, so you can have one down or you can have both down. If I did have a couple passengers and my dog together in my car, someone could sit in the back seat and there’s still space for the dog.”

FUEL ECONOMY

With an efficient i-VTEC engine that reduces fuel use at low revolutions per minute, the HR-V’s Eco Assist system also helps monitor the efficiency of your driving to help reduce your carbon footprint.

“It’s efficient and doesn’t eat up a lot of fuel, as opposed to a gas guzzler like an SUV, which was important to me,” Robinson said. “It’s got (an ECON mode). This little leaf on my dashboard —that means that it’s on economy for fuel efficiency. But when I go on the highway, I can take it off and I’ve got pep to go faster.”

SAFETY FIRST

The HR-V has plenty to keep you safe, including controlled braking and hill start assist. There’s also a backup camera that offers various views to aid with backing into tight spaces.

“There are sensors that will pop up and say ‘brake’ on the dash if I’m driving too close to another car. If I lane drift, the steering wheel will kind of vibrate and it will say ‘lane departure’ if I don’t have my blinker on. It snaps you out of it if you’re preoccupied, which was new for me but something I really like, especially for a new driver or if you’re not used to driving.”