2016 Honda HR-V Review | Jeff City, MO

Overview

The 2016 Honda HR-V looks to capitalize on the success of Honda's larger CR-V or Pilot sports utility vehicles. However, just because the HR-V is smaller than Honda’s other offerings in this class, that doesn't mean this crossover shorts its owners on all around utility. Honda's so-called "Magic Seat" allows motorists to tuck away the rear seat for bulkier cargo that may not completely fit in the trunk space. What the car loses in size when compared to its larger counterparts it makes up for in additional fuel mileage. If one is worried about dangerous driving conditions, the HR-V is also available in all-wheel drive. The HR-V's size may be perfect for individuals who see the larger CR-V or Pilot as too cumbersome or expensive.

The HR-V comes is available in three trim levels: LX, EX and EX-L Navi. The more modestly priced LX comes standard with full power accessories, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, a four-speaker audio system with a CD player, and a USB port to connect to your MP3 or smartphone. Upgrading to the EX comes with a sunroof, rear privacy glass, a blind spot camera, a seven-inch touchscreen display, a six-speaker sound system, an additional USB port, and Honda Link. Opting for the highest level Trim, the EX-L Navi, upgrades the vehicle with roof rails, a dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system, leather upholstery, in addition to satellite and HD radio.

Performance

The HR-V gets up to 28 miles per gallon around town and up to 35 mpg on the highway. Drivers of the Honda Civic might recognize the 1.8 liter engine that lies under the HR-V's hood. The engine produces 141 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 127 lb-ft of torque at 4300 rpm. The engine can get the car up from 0-60 mph in around 10 seconds. HR-V owners can opt for a six-speed manual transmission with front-wheel drive, but those who need AWD will have to get the HR-V with the CVT automatic transmission. Upgrading to AWD does lower the expected fuel economy down to 27/32 mpg around town and on the highway respectively.

Interior

The HR-V boasts a spacious interior that takes advantage of the model's positioning of the fuel tank under the front vehicle's front seats. The clever placement allows the rear seats to flip up or downward depending on the height requirements of one's cargo. All models of the HR-V have room for five occupants, and two adults can comfortably sit in the back despite the curved shape of the car's roof. The fabric upholstery in the base model looks and feels nice, but leather is available and actually comes standard with the EX-L Navi.

Features

The HR-V also boasts a number of technological features that help separate it from its competitors. As is the case with all new Hondas, the HR-V comes with a rear camera that helps take away some of the anxiety of reversing in busy areas. It comes with a CD-player, but more importantly offers a USB port through which one could play anything off their phone or other devices. Standard Bluetooth phone connectivity is also a huge advantage the vehicle offers that when coupled with the beautiful seven-inch touchscreen display makes using one's phone safe and easy.

Safety

The HR-V also boasts an impressive safety record according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Overall it received a five star rating that included perfect ratings on the side driver, side passenger, and side pole driver tests. The HR-V also received four star ratings on its frontal driver, frontal passenger, and rollover tests. Its standard safety features include anti-lock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, and curtain airbags.

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The Honda HR-V is another brilliant crossover offering from one of the most reliable automakers in the world. For people looking for something smaller or more affordable than Honda's previous lineup, don't waste time and go test drive the HR-V today.