Honda HR-V Review: 2015 VTi Petrol CVT Auto
What’s Hot: Sophisticated, comfortable on-road, and spacious (with versatile 'Magic seat system')
What’s Not: Clunky infotainment, awkward rear door handles
X-FACTOR: A step ahead of other compact SUVs, a real segment-defining car.
Vehicle Style: Compact SUV
Price: $24,990 (plus on-roads)
Engine/trans: 105kW/172Nm 1.8 petrol 4cyl | CVT auto
Fuel Economy claimed: 6.6 l/100km | tested: 7.8 l/100km
OVERVIEW
Compact SUVs are the ‘new black’ this year; manufacturers are falling over each other in the rush to join this fast growing segment.
Some, like the Holden Trax and Ford EcoSport make a good show of the 'utility' part of SUV, but lose a bit of appeal in the driving.
Others, like the fashion-forward Renault Captur and Mazda CX-3 aren’t too fussed with the utility side of things at all.
Somewhere in the middle, Honda’s reborn HR-V aims to be a bit of everything. A lifestyle accessory that’s easy on the eye, versatile, but still compact enough to survive the city.
The HR-V is firming up as something of a favourite around the TMR watercooler.
We’ve spent some time in the upscale VTi-L model and came away impressed, but wanted to know if the more budget-friendly VTi could do the same.
THE INTERIOR | RATING: 4/5
- Touchscreen climate control, trip computer.
- Cruise control, electronic park brake.
- Honda Display Audio infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, USB input.
- Cloth upholstery, ‘Magic’ folding rear seat.