2016 Honda HR-V Review

The 2016 HR-V crossover is an all-new Honda vehicle that blends the styling of a coupe, the toughness, space and utility of an SUV, and the quality and refinement of a Honda in one sporty, personal and versatile multi-dimensional vehicle. The well-equipped HR-V enters the fast-growing entry crossover market with dynamic yet refined exterior styling, fun-to-drive performance, class-leading fuel efficiency ratings and one of the most spacious and versatile cabins in its class. The HR-V is available in three trim levels: LX, EX and EX-L Navi.

Developed on Honda’s Global Compact Series platform, the HR-V utilizes a center-mounted fuel tank layout and reconfigurable 2nd-Row Magic Seat® to deliver voluminous interior space along with a flexible cabin featuring multiple seating/cargo modes. With 100.1 cu.-ft. of passenger space and 58.8 cu.-ft. of cargo volume (LX FWD) with the 2nd-Row seats folded down, the HR-V has space to rival some competitors’ midsize SUV offerings.

The HR-V’s dynamic appearance and sporty, solid stance is aided by its coupe-like cabin shape and bold and powerfully tapered face. Distinctive side contours, including a sharply upswept character line and deeply sculpted lower body flow into a tapered rear fascia that adds to the visual appeal. Concealed rear door handles further enhance the HR-V’s coupe-like appearance.

The equally sporty and sophisticated interior features an expansive, airy cockpit with an abundance of soft-touch materials and premium detailing punctuated by precise bezels, sophisticated stitch lines and up-market brushed chrome and piano black highlights – all fitting its mission as a youthful yet refined personal crossover vehicle. The three-meter driver’s instrument cluster features “floating” illumination rings and Honda’s ECO Assist feature, wherein the speedometer illumination changes from white to green depending on current fuel efficiency.

Interior

The all-new 2016 HR-V’s interior is designed to offer welcoming comfort for up to five passengers with surprising roominess and upscale details. The key to the HR-V’s remarkable versatility is the clever second row Magic Seat® that offers unmatched cargo carrying adaptability. The interior boasts a number of standard “class-above” features and optional premium features that make it more comfortable, convenient, and keep its occupants informed, connected and entertained. The spacious cabin features plenty of useful storage features, including a high deck center console with generous internal storage space and a sliding armrest. Upgrades include an available leather trim package, and available premium features such as Smart Entry with Push Button Start and the 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio system.

Key Interior Features

• 100.1 cu.-ft. of passenger space (96.1 cu.-ft. in EX and EX-L Navi)
• 2nd-row Magic Seat®
• Steering wheel-mounted audio controls
• 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio (EX, EX-L Navi)

Styling

The interior of the HR-V has an open airy feel with large glass area for excellent outward visibility. Soft touch surfaces give the interior a rich feel highlighted by bright chrome and deep piano black accents. The high-deck center console offers abundant storage, coupled with the personal feel of a sports coupe. The sporty, backlit three-dial instrument panel includes a Multi Information Display (MID), 5-inch color LCD screen (LX) or the 7-inch Display Audio (EX and EX-L Navi). Comfortable and supportive seats with high-quality fabric are standard on the LX and EX trims and the upscale luxury of a leather-trimmed seats and upper door linings is standard in the EX-L Navi. In addition to the leather trim on the seats, the HR-V EX-L Navi includes a leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob as well as heated front seats.

Interior Colors

The HR-V’s interior palette is sophisticated and coordinated. Seating is offered in gray or black – fabric in the LX and EX, leather in the EX-L Navi, with matching door panel accents. The instrument panel and carpet are black in all HR-V models.

Packaging

The 2016 HR-V is designed to offer the maximum interior space for passengers and cargo inside an exterior package that’s compact and easy to park. The HR-V offers the convenience of wide-opening doors and easy step-in with an eye point about four inches higher than that of typical passenger cars. With 100.1 cubic feet of passenger space (LX trim; 96.1 cubic feet in EX and EX-L Navi) the sensation of spaciousness is further enhanced by a large, airy greenhouse (upper section of body and glass area). Contributing to the HR-V’s remarkable interior roominessare clever packaging, thoughtful storage features, and the multi-position 2nd-row Magic Seat®, first seen in the Fit, that is easily reconfigured for maximum cargo- and passenger-carrying utility.

Driver Interface

The HR-V’s fresh new interior has been centered on the needs of the driver, with instruments and controls oriented for quick readability and easy, natural access. The large speedometer is placed in the center of the instrument pod that has Eco Assist lighting, which changes in color to help the driver achieve greater driving efficiency. A tachometer is positioned to the left, and an MID on the right, can cycle through various informational displays. The instruments and displays provide critical and useful information including current estimated fuel efficiency, time, outside temperature, fuel gauge and more. The 5-inch color LCD screen (LX) or new 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio (EX and EX-L Navi) are conveniently positioned for either the driver or front passenger to control. New-style steering wheel-mounted controls with easy functionality provide quick access to various functions and information without the driver having to remove hands from the wheel.

Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls

All HR-V steering wheels have three sets of controls, including new-style radial controls. There are two left-hand sets: one operates the audio system or the Display Audio system, if equipped; the other controls the Bluetooth®1 HandsFreeLink® and, if equipped, the navigation system. The right-hand set operates the cruise control.

The left-hand set of radial audio controls includes four controls on one ring – like the four points on a compass – to simplify the layout and provide for intuitive toggling between functions. A short push on the MENU button engages the Display Audio system. All controls are positioned ergonomically where they are easy to reach and operate with minimal distraction for the driver. They also offer a pleasant tactile feel.

Progressive Instrument Illumination

The HR-V’s instrumentation uses a progressive illumination sequence when the driver enters the vehicle. When the door is opened, the instrumentation is illuminated at 10 percent of its full brightness. When the key is put in the ignition (encircled with an illuminated ring) or when the push-button start button is depressed, the instrument illumination ramps up to 100 percent. When the ignition is turned on, the illuminated instrument needles and enunciator lights come on, indicating all systems are ready.

Interior Storage

Though compact in size, the HR-V offers surprising utility in its cleverly engineered interior. The center console offers a deep internal storage compartment topped by a padded sliding armrest. Farther forward, dual cup holders top the console. A lower open tray near the front of the console is accessible from either side and is designed for phone storage. In LX trims, a USB port, auxiliary input jack and 12-volt power socket are positioned in the tray. In EX and EX-L Navi trims, the auxiliary input jack is replaced by an additional USB port and an HDMI display audio interface that can be used for direct connection to and streaming from compatible smartphones.

Numerous storage areas are sized to hold common personal items, and they’re also conveniently located for easy use. They include a 427.2 cubic-inch, lighted glove box, convenient door bins in front and rear, and a passenger-side seatback pocket. Beverage holders are located on the center console in the front row, with an additional holder positioned on the rear of the console for rear seat use. Additional beverage holders are positioned in all four doors.

Cargo Area

Opening the HR-V’s large rear hatch provides access to a remarkably spacious and accommodating cargo area. With a low lift-over height, four dedicated seat modes and dozens of configurations, the HR-V offers remarkable functionality and utility. Fold the 2nd-row Magic Seat® forward and it provides an enormous 58.8 cubic feet of cargo space (57.6 when equipped with AWD) on the LX trim. Other configurations allow long and tall items to be carried or even for two people to relax with their feet up when the HR-V is parked.

2nd-Row Magic Seat®

Like the Fit, the HR-V features the exceptional utility of the 60/40 (right/left), split 2nd-row Magic Seat®. The Magic Seat® can be configured in multiple ways to adapt instantly to a wide variety of circumstances and needs. In the standard seatback-up/seat bottom-down position there is ample room for three passengers to sit comfortably. As the seatback is split 60/40, one or two passengers can still be accommodated while extending the cargo-carrying capacity by folding down one side or the other. And since the HR-V offers exceptional rear-seat legroom, the rear passenger area can also accommodate a good-sized pet kennel or crate. The Magic Seat® can easily be folded into any of its positions with levers accessible from the rear of the car or the rear doors.

Utility Mode

With both 2nd-row seats folded down, the Utility Mode allows for maximum cargo capacity – a cavernous 58.8 cu-ft (57.6 in AWD model) on the LX trim. The flat floor and regular shape of the area allow for the most efficient use of the space. Also, due to the low lift-over height of the hatch and low floor height, large and heavy items can be easily loaded. Four tie-down points make it easy to secure cargo.

Long Mode

If long items such as lumber, a stepladder, or even recreational items such as surfboards or musical instruments need to be carried, the Long Mode accommodates. Extra long items can be carried with the rear seat on the passenger side folded down and the front passenger seat tilted all the way back. The HR-V’s Long Mode accommodates bulkier items without the need for a roof rack.

Tall Mode

The Tall Mode is another useful cargo-carrying configuration for tall items that need to remain upright, such as a large plant. This would also be useful for bringing an uncrated dog along, since the side-door entry is even lower than the rear entry of the vehicle, making it easy for most dogs of any age to get in or out. The space can even accommodate two mountain bikes with their front wheels removed. This is a better alternative than laying one bike on top of another in the back, which risks damage from protruding pedals and handlebars.

Front Seats

The HR-V features contoured, supportive front seats that are manually adjustable. The driver’s seat also offers manual height adjustment. LX and EX trims have soft, durable cloth upholstery, while the EX-L Navi features leather-trimmed seats.

Exterior

The HR-V represents an entirely new generation of subcompact crossover vehicle for Honda that blends the styling of a coupe, the toughness, space and utility of an SUV, and the quality and refinement of a Honda in one sporty, personal and versatile multi-dimensional vehicle. The exterior design matches the HR-V’s fun and sophisticated driving character, with three defining principal design characteristics: large 17-inch diameter wheels and tires, a high seating position that results in a high “eye point” for the driver and passengers (about four inches higher than in a typical subcompact sedan or wagon), and high road clearance to handle rough roads.

Styling

With sleek coupe-like styling and the stance and utility of an SUV, the new HR-V styling is equal parts athletic, sophisticated and functional. The aerodynamic front end features a prominent black grille with chrome trim and multi-reflector headlights, all integrated with an uplifting “wing” motif. A wide track imparts a feeling of strength while also contributing to surefooted handling. Fog lights on the EX and EX-L Navi trim levels are recessed into the black lower fascia.

The windswept aero influences continue along the HR-V body sides, which are defined by an uplifting character line that sweeps upward from behind the front wheel arch to converge at the sloping C-pillar. The effect is dramatic and unique, and imbues the HR-V with a sense of motion even while parked. The wheel arches and lower sills are trimmed with black finishers, adding a look of toughness while also helping to protect body panels from damage from road debris. Another unique HR-V feature is the rear door handles, which are integrated high in the C-pillars. This smoothens the rear door lines for a coupe-like style while also positioning the handles in an easy-to-grasp location. Standard 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels add a premium look.

At the rear, the HR-V’s styling melds the clean, continuous roofline and rear window of a coupe with the utility of a crossover vehicle’s hatchback and the ruggedness of an SUV. In keeping with the sweeping appearance of the front end and body sides, the rear fender edges and hatch likewise have uplifting character lines that add lightness and energy visually. And finally, the black lower rear bumper fascia integrates with an aerodynamic diffuser for an intriguing look of ruggedness and efficiency.

Lighting

The front light arrays include multi-reflector halogen headlights with an auto-off feature, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and turn signals with clear lenses and amber bulbs. The rear light arrays include LED taillights, LED brake lights, and LED center high-mounted stop light . The EX and EX-L Navi add fully automatic headlights with an auto-on/off feature, halogen front fog lights, and LED turn signals integrated into the side mirror housings. One-touch turn signals are standard on all HR-V models.

Power Side Mirrors

The shape of the two-tone, black and color-matched side mirrors compliment the HR-V’s exterior styling and were specifically designed for low aerodynamic drag to improve fuel efficiency while reducing wind noise. The mirror base and mounting point was designed for the new HR-V to optimize visibility around the mirror. A “break-away” folding design significantly reduces the chance of damage if the mirror should strike or be struck by an object.

Easily adjustable, the power mirrors include Honda’s unique Expanded View Driver’s Mirror, which expands the visible area. In addition, EX and EX-L Navi trims feature heated mirrors for all-weather driving convenience and include integrated LED turn indicators for added visibility in traffic. The EX and EX-L Navi passenger-side mirror also includes an integrated Honda LaneWatch®1 camera. (See Safety and Driver Assistance section for more information.)

Visibility and Glass

The 2016 HR-V has a large glass area for excellent driver visibility and sense of space for all occupants. Excellent outward visibility is a hallmark of Honda design and a key feature for the HR-V, which offers excellent front and rear sight lines for the driver, as well as a commanding eye point level. The EX and EX-L Navi trim levels add rear privacy glass for improved passenger comfort.

One-Touch Open/Close Power Moonroof

The EX and EX-L Navi trims feature a one-touch power moonroof with tilt feature that will fully open or close with a single touch of the switch. The moonroof also has a sliding sunshade that opens automatically with the roof and can be closed manually to block sunlight. The moonroof can also tilt to provide ventilation. Special attention was given to the design of the moonroof mechanism to provide ample headroom.

To tilt or slide the moonroof, the driver or front passenger needs only to fully press the ceiling-mounted switch once (instead of pressing and holding it for several seconds). The moonroof then fully opens or closes automatically. However, if the operator wishes to only partially open or close the moonroof (such as to achieve partial ventilation), a lighter touch yields fully manual control.

An auto-reverse feature is built in, helping to ensure that the moonroof will not fully close if it encounters sufficient resistance from an obstruction, such as someone’s hand or arm. If sufficient resistance is detected, the auto-reverse mechanism will reopen the moonroof.

Tailgate

The HR-V’s manual tailgate features twin gas-charged hydraulic struts that ease opening and a single pull-down handle located on the right side. The tailgate can be unlocked by pressing the remote twice (first for driver’s door only, second for all other doors and the tailgate) or by pressing a button inside the driver’s door. The power latch is located directly under the tailgate handle. A 360-degree seal surrounds the tailgate opening for a tight seal against the intrusion of water, dirt and wind noise. The tailgate automatically locks whenever the HR-V is locked.

The tailgate opening dimensions are generous in size, allowing easy stowage of large or bulky items, including mountain bikes, which can be stored vertically with their front wheels removed. The opening width is 46.5 inches, with an opening height (from bottom tailgate sill to top sill) of 35.3 inches. As well, a low lift-over height of 25.7 inches makes stowing heavy or awkward items easier.

Storage Area

Inside is a spacious 58.8 cu-ft of total storage space (LX FWD with 2nd-row seat folded down) complimented by a flat floor that simplifies and improves the HR-V’s cargo-carrying utility. Two chrome tie-down rings are positioned at the front of the storage area, which is illuminated by a light positioned at the left side of the opening. The storage area is nicely trimmed in high-quality carpeting that matches the HR-V’s passenger compartment. The spare tire, wheel and jack are located under a lift-up floor panel at the rear. And finally, a retractable cargo cover provides a visual screen to hide cargo left in the vehicle when parked.

Storage versatility is further improved via a 60/40 split 2nd-Row Magic Seat®.

Windshield Wipers

The HR-V’s windshield wipers are 2-speed/intermittent on the LX, with the EX and EX-L Navi trims adding a variable-intermittent function. The wipers are positioned out of the airflow over the hood to reduce turbulence that can contribute to aerodynamic drag and interior noise. For pedestrian safety, the wiper arm pivots are deformable. A reverse-linked intermittent rear window wiper/washer is standard equipment on all trim levels.

Operation of the windshield wipers is intuitively simple using the stalk positioned next to the steering wheel; pushing the stalk up or down operates the front windshield wipers, and twisting the outside part of the stalk operates the rear windshield wiper.

Roof Rails

The HR-V EX-L Navi trim adds roof rails to the HR-V lineup. Designed for low aerodynamic drag and turbulence, the rails extend from just behind the windshield all the way to the C-pillar, conforming to the graceful arch of the HR-V’s roofline. Each rail has four anchor points for attaching cross rails or an accessory rack.

Exterior Colors

A total of eight stylish exterior colors help the HR-V express its youthful appeal and intelligent design and functionality. Three are unique to the HR-V and new to the Honda lineup: Mulberry Metallic, Deep Ocean Pearl, and Misty Green Pearl. For the best overall HR-V presentation, certain colors are exclusively coordinated with a Gray or Black interior.

Powertrain and Drivetrain

Power comes from a highly refined and responsive 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with i-VTEC® valvetrain, producing a peak 141 horsepower at 6,500 rpm1 and 127 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,300 rpm2. The engine is mated to a sporty and fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT) with Honda “G-design” shift logic, or a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission (LX and EX FWD only). The HR-V is available with front-wheel-drive or with Honda’s Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System™ for outstanding all-weather traction and control.

Body and Chassis

The HR-V utilizes a unique center-mounted fuel tank layout that enables the second row Magic Seat® to fold completely flat into the floor, creating a more spacious and versatile interior package. Driving efficiency, handling performance and cabin quietness are further aided by an aerodynamic shape and a lightweight yet rigid body structure with significant noise-insulating materials and design features. The body utilizes Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for enhanced frontal collision protection, and 27 percent of the body is composed of advanced ultra-high strength steel for improved rigidity that enhances collision-protection, handling response, ride quality and a quiet cabin environment.

Fully independent front and torsion-beam rear suspension systems with amplitude reactive dampers maximize rear seating and cargo space while also providing outstanding handling characteristics and ride quality. Electric Power Steering (EPS) provides a refined and sporty steering feel while minimizing energy requirements. All models feature power-assisted four-wheel disc anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and Hill Start Assist, an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Automatic Brake Hold, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels and 215/55R17 all-season tires.

Safety and Driver-Assistive Technology

Utilizing advanced safety technologies and design features, including Honda’s next-generation ACE™ body structure, the HR-V is expected to achieve top-class collision safety performance ratings – a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), including a GOOD rating in the rigorous IIHS small-overlap frontal collision test.

Standard safety and driver-assistive features include four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®4 electronic stability control system; an Expanded View Driver’s Mirror; a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera5; dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; driver and front passenger SmartVent® side airbags; side-curtain airbags for all outboard seating positions; and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)6. Honda LaneWatch®7 display is included with EX and EX-L Navi trims.

Features and Trims

The HR-V offers a high level of standard equipment for an affordable crossover vehicle, along with a long list of available premium features to accommodate a wide variety of consumer needs. LX and EX trims with front-wheel drive can be equipped with either the 6-speed manual transmission or sporty continuously variable transmission (CVT), and all models can be specified as front-wheel-drive or equipped with Real Time AWD™. Models with Real Time AWD™ are available only with a CVT.

LX comfort and convenience features:

• 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels
• Electric parking brake
• Rearview camera with guidelines
• Tilt and telescoping steering wheel
• Cruise control
• Steering wheel-mounted controls for audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth®8 HandsFreeLink® phone interface
• 160-watt, 4-speaker AM/FM/CD
• USB input9
• Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone interface
• Audio with 5-inch color LCD screen
• Auto-off headlights
• Auxiliary jack
• Cargo area light
• ECO Assist with ECON mode
• Extendable sunvisors
• 12-volt power outlets (front/second row)
• LED taillights
• One-touch turn signals
• LED pocket light
• Rear heater ducts
• Two-speed intermittent windshield wipers
• Reverse-linked intermittent rear windshield wiper
• 60/40 split 2nd-Row Magic Seat®
• Speed-sensitive audio volume control
• Power windows and door locks
• Expanded View Driver’s Mirror
• Floor mats

EX additions:

• 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio11 telematics interface
• Honda LaneWatch® Display
• 180-watt, 6-speaker AM/FM/CD
• Pandora®10 radio
• Heated front seats
• One-touch power moonroof with tilt feature
• Smart Entry and Push-Button Start
• Steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters (CVT only)
• Auto-on/off headlights
• Fog lights
• Multi-angle rearview camera with dynamic guidelines
• Second USB jack
• SMS Text Message functionality
• Automatic climate control system with air filtration
• Rear privacy glass
• Heated body-colored side mirrors with turn indicators
• Variable intermittent wipers
• Lighted vanity mirrors
• Chrome interior door handles, speaker rings and air vent trims

EX-L Navi additions:

• Leather seats
• Leather steering wheel and leather shift knob
• Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™12
• SiriusXM®13 radio, HD Radio™14 and Honda Digital Traffic
• Auto day/night rearview mirror
• Roof rails

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