Honda HR-V

We can say that Honda it was ahead of its time. When SUVs were counted on the fingers of one hand, the Japanese launched themselves into the utility market with a model they dubbed the Honda HR-V. Its initials come from the abbreviation of Hi-Revolutionary Vehicle. In our market we know it like this, although it must be recognized that in other countries it is known by the name of Honda Vezel. We speak, of course, of a global product.

We have tested this car:

Test Honda HR-V Hybrid 131 hp and Advance finish (with video)Test Honda HR-V e:HEV Advance Style

The first generation arrived in 1999 and was on the market for a few years with some success.. It was marketed with a body with three or five doors, thus becoming one of the first SUVs with such characteristics. Its production ceased years later, and during a time absent from the markets it resurfaced in 2015 completely changed and more adapted to new fashions and market trends.

That Honda HR-V gave way in 2022 to a completely new third generation. Completely changed from the previous edition, the new B-SUV dives deep into hybrid technology. In addition, there are significant changes in terms of design, qualities and equipment. What has been a completely new model from head to toe.

Technical characteristics of the Honda HR-V

The third generation is obliged to meet certain sustainability and efficiency requirements. The new global regulations have caused an earthquake in the industry. Manufacturers must comply with them, and that means the development of new technologies and new platforms such as the one used in the new Honda HR-V. A completely new architecture that is characterized by its adaptation to new mobility systems.

Due to its size, the HR-V can deceive when it is between two segments. It's a big model for the B-SUV market, and a bit short for the C-SUV, but that's where Honda wants to position it. Its exterior measurements take it up to 4,34 meters long, 1,79 meters wide and 1,58 meters high. To these levels we must add a wheelbase of 2,66 meters, offering one of the best spaces in the category.

Rear passengers now enjoy 35 millimeters more legroom, although it penalizes the height. Although the maximum capacity is five passengers, the rear bench seat is more designed for two occupants due to the limited distance for the shoulders. Regarding load capacity, the Honda HR-V advertises a cargo volume of 335 liters minimum. This figure can be increased thanks to the Honda Magic Seats system that allows excellent interior modularity.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the Honda HR-V

Honda HR-V side

In a short time, the Asian giant has been completing a discreet electrification in its range of models. from the electric Honda and, to the largest Honda CR-V, passing through the flirty Honda jazz, almost the entire range offers efficient latest-generation mechanics. The HR-V adds to that bandwagon. In our market the range will be limited to a single version, which of course is a non-plug-in hybrid.

The set is made up of a conventional layout of a gasoline thermal engine and an electric motor powered by a small battery. The 1.5 liter Atkinson cycle petrol block displacement is the main engine of the HR-V. To it is added the electric motor and the battery, of which at the moment we do not know capacity and autonomy. The whole set, at its maximum performance peak, offers a maximum power of 131 horses with 253 Nm of torque.

That means a slight increase in power and a considerable increase in powertrain strength. The entire team is under the management of an automatic gearbox that is responsible for autonomously regulating the way the car acts by means of three modes: EV Mode, Hybrid Mode and Engine Mode. In each of them the engines are combined in one way or another to offer more or less performance with more or less high consumption. The power will always be diverted to the front axle without the possibility of mounting an all-wheel drive.

Equipment of the Honda HR-V

Honda HR-V inside

Like every new model that hits the market, the interior appearance is almost as important as the interior. From doors inside the Honda HR-V presents a correct presentation of elements, both in technology and in qualities and finishes. Although the presence of hard plastics is the usual trend, certain areas offer softer finishes that increase the comfort of the occupants. All this with a neutral and very minimalist appearance.

As is customary in the house, the range of equipment is divided into different levels or lines. From smallest to largest endowment we find: Elegance, Advance and Advance Style. In each of them, not only is different equipment delivered, there are also unique notes in finishes and materials. Outwardly, the design hardly varies, with the alterations focusing on small details.

As far as equipment is concerned, it can be said that the Honda HR-V is postulated as one of the most complete models of the family. The list of elements is long, and it is worth highlighting some such as: standard LED headlights, digital instrumentation, HMI multimedia system with 9-inch touch panel, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, induction charging, dual-zone climate control, and a very complete safety display thanks to the Honda Sensing team.

Honda HR-V test video

The Honda HR-V of Km 0 and second hand

Despite being on the market for more than 20 years, the Honda HR-V has never been a particularly popular sales model. Despite presenting a great price-product ratio, other models have gained greater popularity. Thanks to a reputation for durability and reliability depreciation is approximately 31%. A fact that is in line with the B-SUV segment.

Scanning secondary markets occasion and second hand we see how the minimum price is around 1.500 euros for first generation models (year 2000), with a large number of accumulated kilometers. The offer of Km 0 models is not very extensive. The prices do not present a great difference with respect to the factory units and the dealers do not accumulate stock waiting for the new generation in early 2022.

Rivals of the Honda HR-V

Honda HR-V rear profile

Little by little, the B-SUV segment has been gaining weight in the markets. Today is the second most popular segment in number of sales and the first in growth. That means that the offer is wide, and the rivals of the Honda HR-V are counted by dozens. Some examples are: Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-3, Renault Captur, Ford Puma, Peugeot 2008, Nissan Juke, SEAT Arona, Toyota CHR, Opel Mokka, Skoda Kamiq, Volkswagen T-Cross and many more. All of them are rivals both for size and sale price, although the Japanese penalizes a much smaller range of mechanics.

Highlight

Equipment
rear space
Hybrid system

To improve

Design
Cargo volume
Price

Honda HR-V Price

When it comes to pricing, Honda has once again erred. The starting price of the Honda HR-V is 33.460 euros, without offers or promotions. This price is associated with a model with an Elegance finish. At a higher level is the HR-V with Advance finish, whose starting price stands at 35.9600 euros, without offers or promotions. The most expensive of the entire family is the Honda HR-V Advance Style, which is announced with a minimum price of 38.460 euros, without offers or promotions.