There is something new: Honda is one of the first companies, to show an endless video, developed by the creative agency, mcgarrybowen in London, on their youtube channel. It shows an HR-V, always taking the same curve but depending on which city you click on, it shows the car driving under the respective prevailing conditions. It can be viewed by clicking here. We would rather stick to the tried and tested videos below.
The manufacturer has not committed himself as to what type of car this actually is. It could possibly belong in the compact-SUV class, indeed, the option of all-wheel drive is not even available. On the other hand, it does offer a fair amount of space but because of the high ground-clearance, the space is less than that of a Multi Purpose Vehicle of the same height. Then however, despite its height it should be as dynamic as a coupé. In the end, most would agree on the description 'Crossover'.
It must after all, somehow be dynamic, if with the petrol engine model, the highest performance is achieved at 6.600 RPM. This is where the motorcycle manufacturer shimmers through. At Honda, they expect up to 70% of their buyers to come from other brand-names. The HR-V of course, counts as having one of the roomiest interiors and also as one of the most impressively fitted cars in the segment. Have a look here, at how the Magic-Seats system functions.
Another special description, is Honda's Earth Dreams Technology. Those who would like to find out a bit more, can have a look at the last video below. With the HR-V, it can only be applied in the models with the i- VTEC engine due to the direct injection and the adjustable intakes. Indeed, the CVT-transmission does appear to have a positive influence on the CO2 emission. By the way, the change-over from 16- to 17 inch wheels of the same width, will increase the CO2 emission by 4 g/km.
Beneficially, the design of the HR-V has been spared the extravagances of earlier models, which didn't suit the car at all. The rear door-handles have remained in the C-pillars. And if it's not the all-wheel drive that limits its top speed, then it's the height. This is also where one can roughly estimate what the air-resistance is like. Indeed, some drivers may consider the 10 centimetres higher seats to be an additional safety feature.
Apart from the three fittings-variations, a panorama roof, of which more than half can be opened, is also available, as is the Honda Connect with all the comforts of an Android-Smartphone, including access to the internet and the social-media. The size of the touch screen is 7 inches diagonal (see pictures 1-4) and it is fitted with a Garmin satnav system. All the usual assistants can be had on-board. 08/15