2016 Honda HR-V

The all-new 2016 Honda HR-V is the latest in a flood of subcompact crossover SUVs to hit the market. Built in Celaya, Mexico, the HR-V is built on the same line as the Honda Fit and uses much of the same componentry.

 

The HR-V is more than 9 inches longer than the Fit and 10 inches shorter than the Honda CR-V. The Fit and CR-V are hugely popular, so it stands to reason Honda would plop something in the middle.

 

HR-V is available in three trim levels: LX, EX, and EX-L. I tested a nicely equipped, front-drive EX-L trim level with navigation, Bluetooth phone and music compatibility, voice recognition, front-seat side airbags, curtain airbags, leather seats, heated front seats, 60/40 split folding rear seats, and 17-inch wheels.

 

The same 141-horsepower, 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine with a 6-speed manual transmission powers all HR-Vs. An optional CVT automatic transmission is available. All-wheel drive is available, but only with the CVT. The HR-V does not feel quick, but power is adequate around town and on the highway.

 

Exterior styling is unremarkable, and the car looks bigger than it actually is thanks to large windows. It’s nothing offensive or objectionable, but nothing memorable or inspiring either.

 

The HR-V interior looks good and delivers a roomy cabin for both occupants and cargo, but could use more and larger bins and cubbies to store phones, glasses and the like in the front seat. Visibility is excellent, but road noise is intrusive and the flat-panel touchscreen controls for audio and climate are inconvenient.

 

Overall Honda’s new subcompact, while delivering good fuel economy and a roomy interior, fails to make a strong impression and doesn’t distinguish itself from a crowded field of some pretty good competitors. It’s a perfectly acceptable vehicle, but not a memorable one.