If you’re a keen driver with a desire for swift acceleration and lots of driver engagement, this may not be the car for you.
If you want a vehicle that’s easy to drive, is cheap to run and has a hugely practical interior, the HR-V is a superb option.
The vehicle has a smart and contemporary look Generous equipment levels and a frugal hybrid powertrain add to its appeal.
During my week in the company of this attractive small SUV, I was pleased to see an average fuel consumption return of 45mpg in a mixture of real world driving conditions. Meanwhile, CO2 emissions are just 122 g/km on the WLTP scale.
The e:HEV powertrain consists of two compact, powerful electric motors that work alongside an Atkinson-cycle 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and a fixed-gear transmission coupled to a power control unit.
This combines to give the HR-V a total power output of 96kW (131PS) and 253Nm of torque. It’s a pleasant and smooth powertrain if you adopt a relaxed driving style. You have to work the engine hard if you need a turn of pace and this can bring forth a slightly harsh engine tone, while acceleration to 62mph takes 10.6 seconds.
The HR-V looks good from a variety of angles The e:HEV system’s three drive modes interchange to provide the most suitable performance for the conditions, for example urban or motorway driving.
‘Sport’ mode can be activated via the drive selector, enabling sharper throttle response, whilst ‘Econ’ mode adjusts the air conditioning system and throttle response for an emphasis on fuel efficiency. I generally opted for‘Normal’ mode, where the car is best balanced between both worlds.
Drivers can also select B-range from the transmission, which involves the driver using the paddles behind the steering wheel to select levels of energy recovery when coasting or braking.
The interior has a number of design flourishes To mark the introduction of the updated HR-V, a special edition features exclusive styling details. Based on the Advance grade, the Advance Plus offers an exclusive extended paint finish and a unique set of alloy wheels, not offered on any other grade.
All grades feature a new sharper front bumper and revised grille design with a new crystal black upper moulding and darkened headlight internals that create a more defined face.
At the rear, the full-width LED lightbar features a new internal design. Overall, the confident coupe-inspired lines of the vehicle are pleasing on the eye.
In terms of the interior, the cabin has an uncluttered and minimalist feel. Flexibility and practicality remain at the core of the HR-V’s appeal, with the clever Magic Seats providing great versatility.
The vehicle sports a bold and confident face Passenger space is class-leading, although some rivals offer a bigger boot.
A cream-coloured strip runs across the doors and continues across the dash to create a feeling of uniformity.
The seats have a multi-coloured woven quality to them, with blue stitching adding a visual flourish.
A wireless charging point can be found next to the gearstick, with the cabin redesigned to make it easier for both the driver and front seat passenger to access the charging pad.
The dash has a clean and uncluttered appearance Stowage in the cabin is decent, with two cup holders down to the driver’s left, a square compartment beneath the armrest lid, and room in the door pockets for various oddments. The touchscreen has clear graphics and controls functions such as Bluetooth Audio, DAB radio, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and phone connectivity.
A multi view camera is also available through the infotainment screen to help with tricky manoeuvres. The car features a range of advanced safety and technology features.
Interestingly, the arrival of the facelifted HR-V coincided with 25 years since the original Insight established Honda as a world leader in hybrid technology, being the first hybrid model from any manufacturer to be sold in Europe.
The highly-efficient hybrid powertrain in my test car is proof that Honda hasn’t rested on its laurels.
Honda HR-V
ENGINE: 1.5-litre i-MMD petrol, e:HEV, Intelligent Multi Mode Drive
ACCELERATION: 0-62mph in 10.6 seconds
EMISSIONS: 122g/km combined
ECONOMY: 52.3mpg
TRIM: Advance style plus
WARRANTY: Five years
PRICE: £38,645