Honda HR-V – A New Generation of Eco Driving.

Honda HR-V – A New Generation of Eco Driving.

The new Honda HR-V is an attractive compact SUV that is relaxing to drive, has a practical interior, generous levels of standard equipment, and is economical to run. The original HR-V was boxy and rugged, but the second generation of Honda’s smallest SUV certainly looked sportier than its predecessor. Now in its third generation, the all-new HR-V is more sleek and stylish than ever before, and more importantly, it is much more environmentally friendly too, as its only available with a hybrid powertrain. The new HR-V competes with a long list of stylish family SUVs, such as the Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage and the Ford Puma to name a few.

Self-Charging Hybrid Tech.

The new HR-V’s styling has a very modern, upright look, with sleek headlights and a distinctive new integrated front grille, hidden rear passenger door handles and a tailgate spoiler. All versions of the HR-V come with one engine option, a single e-HEV self-charging hybrid powertrain, which comprises of a 1.5-litre petrol engine and two electric motors mated to a CVT automatic transmission. Automatically, the system choses from fully electric drive, hybrid drive or engine drive, depending on how much power is required by the driver.

Stylish & Spacious Cabin.

Inside the cabin it feels airy and spacious, as the fuel tank has been ingeniously packaged to allow for optimum interior space. The stylish and clutter-free dashboard is well constructed, with high-quality materials used where it matters most. The HR-V has a 7.0-inch digital driver display behind the steering wheel and a 9.0-inch colour infotainment touchscreen positioned high in the centre of the dash which uses familiar easy-to-use icons on the display and is responsive to the touch. Underneath the infotainment screen are simple dials and buttons to operate the heating and ventilation. Seating in the HR-V is comfortable and supportive, with good access for both front and back seat occupants. It is easy to fold the 60/40 split-folding rear seats, and they create a completely flat floor when tipped down. Alternatively, you can use Honda’s Magic Seat feature to flip up the back seat bases while leaving the upper cushions in place. This creates a large space where a bike could be carried, while still retaining the boot for other cargo. Boot space is decent for everyday use with 319-litres available. Another clever touch in the Honda is its boot load cover. When not in use, it folds up and is kept in a bag. When you need it, the cover springs back into shape like a pop-up tent and is quickly hooked into position.

Four Trim Options.

The HR-V comes in four trims: Elegance, Advance, Advance Style and Advance Style Plus. Entry level Elegance trim includes key equipment such as: 18-inch alloy wheels, smart entry & start, LED headlights, Honda CONNECT with navigation, DAB Radio, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, heated front seats, a 9-inch touchscreen, front & rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Honda SENSING technology is also standard on all models, and this advanced safety system analyses road signs and driving conditions before you do, pre-empting any potential hazards with features like Lane Keeping Assist System, Collision Mitigation Braking System and Intelligent Speed Limiter. Advance trim adds a power tailgate, front LED fog lights, Adaptive Headlights with Active Cornering Lights, heated steering wheel, 2 x rear USB chargers, auto tilt door mirrors, dual-zone auto air-conditioning, and black leather & fabric upholstery. Additional Advance Style trim includes a two-tone roof, unique exterior design elements that include orange, white and blue accents, piano black front console garnish, light colour roof lining, light grey leather & fabric upholstery, wireless charger, roof rails, multi-view camera system, and a premium audio system. Buyers of the range-topping Advance Style Plus variant will also benefit from a panoramic glass roof, and dark coloured roof lining.

Car on Test.

My test car was a new HR-V Advance Style in vibrant Sunlight White Pearl metallic paintwork. The petrol/electric hybrid powerplant produces 131PS and 253Nm of torque, resulting in a 0-100km/h sprint time of 10.6-seconds, but the car does feel much nippier than that when driving. The elevated driving position gives excellent outward visibility, and as the car moves off from a standstill in electric mode, a smooth start to every journey is a given. The HR-V is very quiet in battery mode, and the ride remains composed over speed bumps and potholes. There are three driving modes to help get the best from the car, Sport for a responsive drive, Normal for a smooth ride and Econ for greater fuel efficiency, so it is easy to find a driving mode to suit your driving style or road conditions. Quick and precise steering provides good feedback to the driver, and it enables corners to be taken with confidence. Official fuel consumption is quoted at 5.4-litres for every 100kms driven on a WLTP combined driving cycle and, based on my time with the car, this is a figure that is very much achievable in real-world driving. Regenerative braking can be selected by the driver if required, and there are paddles behind the steering wheel for selecting the required strength.

Verdict & Price.

Previous generations of the Honda HR-V had a reputation for practicality and reliability, and the all-new HR-V successfully builds on this reputation with its stylish design, high-quality interior, petrol/electric hybrid powertrain, and flexible rear seating. If you are looking for a hybrid SUV with style, flexibility and panache, then the HR-V is a compelling option. Pricing starts at €41,750 for the Elegance model, rising to €49,750 in Advance Style Plus trim.

Visit www.honda.ie for further information,