Honda HR-V [EU] (2016)

Honda's designers paid attention to ensuring the new HR-V also exudes a reassuringly robust presence. Deeply sculpted lower body panels and the strong horizontal orientation of the front and rear bumpers convey the toughness, solidity and sure-footedness associated with larger SUVs.

A new class-leading aerodynamic performance is brought to the crossover segment by new HR-V. Beneath the vehicle, three covers (under the engine, front floor and rear floor) help to smooth and optimise air-flow, boosting fuel efficiency. They also enhance noise insulation for improved interior refinement. Aerodynamic development work focused on optimising front and rear aerodynamic lift to further improve vehicle stability at speed.

Kobayashi adds: "For the exterior we are very pleased with its dynamic shape, the high quality of the surfaces and the intricate but seamless detailing. I can say that when the whole team first saw the prototype vehicle together, we felt proud and special that we were able to realise our targets with this new car. I believe that the HR-V possesses the elegance to look attractive in any scene and yet exudes toughness at the same time."

The all-new HR-V will be available from launch in four metallic (Brilliant Sporty Blue, Alabaster Silver, Modern Steel, Ruse Black) and three pearlescent (Morpho Blue, Crystal Black, White Orchid) paint finishes, as well as solid Milano Red. The newly-introduced Ruse Black and Morpho Blue are available exclusively for the new HR-V.

Class-leading and versatile interior space

The all-new Honda HR-V's interior design was tailored to the dynamic and demanding preferences of the modern and discerning consumer.

The aim of Honda's designers was to balance class-leading interior space, ease of use and storage space with dynamic and emotional design. In order to achieve this, the space and layout of the HR-V was determined ahead of Honda's designers bringing the overall concept to life. Accordingly, HR-V boasts an interior packed with functionality but also with a sense of personal space and fun. Roomy and incredibly versatile, the HR-V's cabin brings the virtues of an MPV into the crossover segment for the first time while providing a driving position which engenders a sense of agility and dynamism.

HR-V owners will enjoy a feeling of security and confidence when driving thanks to an eye-line 100 mm higher than the average sedan or wagon, together with a wide field of vision. The raised floor and correspondingly higher seating position contribute to improved cabin access.

The foundation of the HR-V's spacious and versatile interior is Honda's centre-mounted fuel tank layout. This space-efficient innovative packaging mounts the low profile fuel tank under the front seats, which frees up the underfloor space beneath the rear seats. This enables the platform to accommodate Honda's Magic Seat system, a popular feature on many models in the Honda range.

The Magic Seat system allows each of the 60:40 split second-row seats to adopt numerous configurations to maximise the people and load carrying versatility of the cavernous interior. The Magic Seat system can adopt one of three 'modes' from the standard seating position.

Utility mode - the rear seat back folds forward as the seat base itself lowers into the rear passenger footwell, creating a maximum 1,845 mm-long flat floor.

Tall mode - the front of the rear seat base rises up and back and is locked in a vertical position to leave a cargo height of 1,240 mm from floor to ceiling, allowing tall objects to be placed behind the front seats.

Long mode - the front passenger seat back folds back to a horizontal position, while the rear seat back folds forward, forming a 'tunnel' to accommodate items up to 2,445 mm long.

Occupants will appreciate the class-leading cabin space, with headroom, legroom and shoulder room in the front and rear so generous that they match the dimensions more commonly found in larger vehicles.

The cargo bay also offers impressive space, challenging for best-in-class honours with a capacity of 453 litres with the rear seats upright. The new HR-V's wide tailgate opening (1,180 mm) and low loading height (650 mm) ensure that the capacious cargo space is easily accessible.

Travelling long distances in the new HR-V will be a comfortable and fatigue-free experience for the driver and passengers thanks to Honda engineers' determination to provide this model with class-best levels of refinement.

A new, highly efficient acoustic insulation package was developed for the new HR-V, featuring a top quality, non-woven underlay and sound-absorbing carpets of a type usually found only in high-grade sedans. The front and rear inner wheel arches have been treated with sound-absorbent material, while the floor carpet, underfloor cover and dashboard acoustic pad inserts all contribute to achieving a refined and relaxing atmosphere throughout the cabin. At a constant speed of 100 km/h, occupants can enjoy a whisper-quiet 65 dB of cabin noise.

Refined and sophisticated cabin with high quality materials

Honda's designers sought to marry conflicting themes in the new HR-V's interior, striving to achieve spaciousness, reassuring solidity and - for the driver - a cockpit with the wraparound feel of a coupé.

The expansive, airy cabin is fitted with high quality, soft-touch surfaces, subtly accented with brushed chrome highlights and sophisticated stitching lines to provide a premium ambience. The dashboard design combines a solid feel with premium detailing, including a piano-black feature panel that emphasises the sense of quality, class and refinement.

Sensual colour and texture coordination options will enable customers to express their youth, intelligence and maturity through their personal choices while giving the new HR-V's interior a feeling of high fashion.

Facing the driver, a three-dial instrument binnacle features 'floating' illumination rings and Honda's ECO Assist function, which changes the backlight colour of the speedometer from white to green during fuel-efficient driving.

Facing the front seat passenger, the new HR-V's interior features a new 'wide flow' air outlet with three adjustable air vents across the dashboard, resulting in a comfortable airflow for all passengers. The air flow volume settings are optimised to deliver: high volume for the outlet nearest the side window; low volume for the centre outlet; and medium volume for the air outlet closest to the centre panel.

The new HR-V will be available in three grades. Depending on the grade and market, buyers will have a choice of high quality fabric, half-leather or full-leather upholstery, each in a classic black finish. The sense of spaciousness is amplified on top grade models in the new HR-V line-up by the availability of a unique-in-class opening panoramic glass sunroof. With one-touch opening tilt and slide operation, the 846 mm-long panoramic sunroof features a sliding sunshade that opens automatically with the roof and can be closed manually to block sunlight. The front section - which tilts to a height of 27.5 mm at its rear - measures 475 mm in length.

Honda's new 'Smart Touch Interior' will enable operation of certain functions with the smallest movement and effort. These functions include: Electric Park Brake, Touch Panel Climate Control and One-Touch Indicator.

Advanced new infotainment system

Advanced connectivity and infotainment is provided in the all-new HR-V by the Honda Connect in-car infotainment system, first seen in Europe on the 2015 CR-V. It is fitted as standard on the mid and upper grade HR-V, and as an option on the base model.

Honda Connect has an app-based user interface with 'pinch, swipe and tap' functionality identical to that of a modern smartphone. Running on Android, the world's most popular mobile operating system, Honda Connect gives fast access to internet-based services such as web browsing, real-time traffic information, news and weather, social media, and internet music stations.

The Honda Connect system comes with pre-installed apps, with others available for download from the Honda App Centre for owners to personalise their connected experience. The pre-installed 'Aha' app allows effortless access to thousands of audio stations - spanning music, news, podcasts and audio books - as well as social media feeds and location-based services.

Easy and intuitive to use, the system is accessed through a seven-inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash. The display can be customised to suit individual preferences, with two different 'skins' to choose from, allowing users to make the system their own. Colour-coded icons ensure navigating through menus is quick and simple.

The Honda Connect touchscreen also displays vehicle information - such as trip information and fuel economy - and images from the rear-view parking camera (depending on model).

In addition, the Honda Connect system features extensive options for syncing with smartphones and other personal multimedia devices: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, and MirrorLink - which 'mirrors' the screen of a connected compatible device, allowing it to be operated through the in-dash touchscreen.

Also available as standard on the upper grade and as an option across the range, Honda offers HR-V buyers the award-winning Garmin satellite navigation system. The system is fully integrated with Honda Connect and packed with pre-loaded maps, allowing users to navigate even in areas without mobile data reception.

Spoken turn-by-turn directions are complemented by advanced guidance features to navigate drivers through the most challenging situations with ease, while photo-real junction views make it easier to identify selected junctions and exits. The system also features real-time traffic avoidance, speed limit indications, lane guidance, sign-view, 3D building and terrain views, and Eco Routing. Free map updates will be provided for five years, a benefit unique to Honda.

HR-V base models are fitted as standard with a five-inch LCD colour display screen in the centre of the dash and a 160-watt AM/FM/CD Audio system with four speakers. Mid and upper grade models are fitted with a 180-watt six-speaker audio system.

An engaging drive coupled with efficient performance

Honda's all-new HR-V will be available with choice of highly efficient 130 PS (96 kW) 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol and 120 PS (88 kW) 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel engines, driving the front wheels. Both four cylinder engines are part of Honda's Earth Dreams Technology series, engineered to deliver responsiveness performance together with high levels of efficiency. Both engines comply with the stringent Euro 6 emissions standard.

Combining a high output with low fuel consumption, the 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine produces 130 PS at 6,600 rpm and maximum torque of 155 Nm at 4,600 rpm. Honda's VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) and VTC (Variable Timing Control) technologies combine with direct injection, strong tumble intake ports and an optimised piston shape to provide benefits in output and efficiency. Weight savings are made through a reduction in weight of the crankshaft and the adoption of independent bearing caps.

With this 1,498 cc petrol engine, the new HR-V powers from 0-to-100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.7 seconds (manual) and 11.2 seconds (CVT ). Fuel economy can be up to an impressive 5.2 l/100 km (combined cycle) with CO2 emissions from as low as 120 g/km - both achieved using the highly-efficient CVT transmission.

The 1.6 litre i-DTEC engine is unique to Honda vehicles on sale in Europe. The common rail turbo-diesel unit incorporates extensive technologies that reduce friction, improve emissions and increase fuel economy. The 1,597cc engine features a small, high-efficiency turbocharger, low-pressure EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system and a high-intake flow, high-swirl cylinder head port. A new high-strength, lightweight slender crankshaft and all-aluminium, open-deck, high-pressure, die-cast engine block reduce the engine's weight.

Powered by the diesel engine - which generates 120 PS at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm - the new HR-V can accelerate to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 10.0 seconds, placing it among the most dynamic vehicles in its class. With manual transmission, fuel economy is an impressive 4.0 l/100 km (combined cycle) with CO2 emissions of 104 g/km.

Both the petrol and diesel engines are equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, featuring several improvements for their application in the new HR-V. Optimisation of the physical gear width and layout arrangement allowed engineers to shorten the gearbox, while a lightweight and higher-rigidity shaft improves overall efficiency. The feel and quality of the gear shift is enhanced, improving the oblique shift operation and achieving a smoother, one-movement shift pattern. The effort required to engage reverse gear is reduced and the gear noise when driving in reverse is minimised.

Fitted to the new HR-V, Honda's popular optional CVT is available with the 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine. An all-new CVT control logic was developed specifically for European markets to deliver the direct and linear feeling expected of a manual transmission. This results in vehicle speed matching accelerator pedal position more closely for a more direct feel, while engine speed increases proportionately to accelerator pedal position for a more linear feel.

The CVT's driveability is given a more natural 'multi-gear' feel through the use of new control software exclusive to Europe which simulates seven speeds and provides optimised gear change mapping. Two new additional programmes provide situation-specific enhancements.

Early Downshift During Braking (EDDB) utilises the engine to assist the driver during braking. When the system recognises a deceleration, downhill, or cornering situation initiated by the braking system, EDDB automatically increases the engine speed to provide engine braking. This then allows for quick re-acceleration after slowing or quick acceleration after cornering.

Fast Off measures how quickly the driver releases the accelerator pedal and maintains engine revs to provide engine braking in situations where the driver has released the pedal quickly. This system has been extensively tested for Europe's high speed, multi-lane roads. For example, Fast Off recognises when the driver has prepared to pass a vehicle in front, but is unable to complete the manoeuvre due to a vehicle in the next lane. As the driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal to let the vehicle behind pass by, Fast Off maintains a high engine speed in preparation for completing the overtaking manoeuvre.

This newly-developed CVT unit delivers impressive fuel economy in conjuction with these significant improvements to driveability. The CVT gearbox allows the engine to operate within its most efficient range more of the time by continuously varying the gear ratio instead of adjusting the engine throttle opening. Automatically managed by the engine management system, the CVT gearbox selects the optimal ratio within the simulated seven speeds depending on engine speed, throttle position and driver input. Economy is boosted further by the transmission's wider ratio range and reduced weight, the result of a rationalised design with reduced pulley pressure. Reductions in friction have been achieved through an optimised oil pump capacity, reduced oil resistance, a low friction reverse brake and a reduced friction from the rotational sliding parts.

The new HR-V is one of the global compact series that Honda has developed to deliver a sophisticated, fun, sedan-like driving experience, while also engendering a feeling of security.

The platform and bodyshell of the new HR-V form a highly rigid structure, with 27% of the body made of high-strength steel and featuring improved frame joint rigidity. The stiff bodyshell gives the suspension (MacPherson struts at the front and an H-type torsion beam at the rear) a solid foundation, which - together with a low centre of gravity and minimised body roll - delivers a reassuring solidity and inspires a feeling of security when driving.

The feeling of agility is augmented by a new motion adaptive electric power-assisted steering system with a brushless motor. To minimise understeer, the front suspension features a lower front roll centre to enhance stability and the rear suspension has a raised roll centre. The result is exceptionally linear driving behaviour making new HR-V one of the most confidence-inspiring cars in the crossover segment, especially when driven enthusiastically.

Powerful and stable stopping power for the new HR-V is assured with an all-disc braking system, featuring 293 mm ventilated front discs and 282 mm solid discs at the rear. Electronic aids which boost braking power and enhance vehicle stability include: Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stablity Assist and Hill Start Assist.

Every new HR-V in Europe is fitted with alloy wheels. base and mid grades feature 16-inch wheels with 215/60 R16 tyres, while upper specification models are equipped with 17-inch wheels shod with 215/55 R17 tyres.

Compehensive suite of advanced safety features

As with all new Honda vehicles sold in Europe, the HR-V is fitted with a wide range of active and passive safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer, while maximising occupant and pedestrian protection.

Every new HR-V sold in Europe will be equipped with Honda's City-Brake Active System. Specifically designed to help avoid or mitigate low speed accidents, the system uses laser radar technology to scan the road ahead, automatically applying the brakes if an imminent risk of collision is detected. The system is designed to operate at speeds below 32 km/h (20 mph). If the system identifies a risk of collision then pre-braking as well as audible and visual warning will occur, eventually followed by full autonomous braking to bring the car to a stop.

Mid and upper grade models will feature Honda's Advanced Driver Assist System, which uses radar sensors, plus forward and rear facing cameras, as standard. This comprehensive suite of active safety technologies includes: Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and High-beam Support System.

Forward Collision Warning

Forward Collision Warning detects the risk of collision by recognising the vehicle (car or truck) directly in front, using the multi-purpose camera. The system operates when the car is at a speed of 15 km/h (9 mph) and above. On detecting the risk of collision, it will offer visual and audible warnings. The warning distance can be adjusted to the driver's preferences and the system can be turned off by the driver.

Traffic Sign Recognition

Traffic Sign Recognition uses the multi-purpose camera to detect road signs whenever the vehicle is moving forward. The system automatically recognises and displays the signs in the instrument binnacle screen once the vehicle has passed the sign.

The system is designed to detect circular road signs displaying speed limits and 'No Passing' information. Two road signs can be displayed at any one time - the right side of the display only shows speed limit signs while the left shows 'No Passing' signs and speed limits with additional information; such as weather conditions, for example.

Intelligent Speed Limiter

Intelligent Speed Limiter combines two otherwise independent safety systems - Adjustable Speed Limiter and Traffic Sign Recognition system - resulting in an advanced safety assistance feature. The Adjustable Speed Limiter system -standard on every Honda car on sale in Europe - regulates the maximum speed of the vehicle at a level set by the driver.

With Intelligent Speed Limiter activated, the maximum speed of the vehicle is automatically determined by the prevailing legal speed limit detected by the Traffic Sign Recognition system. When the vehicle passes a sign indicating a lower speed limit, the vehicle will gently and automatically slow, through a reduction in power, to a maximum speed that does not exceed the speed limit. An alert sounds and the displayed speed limit blinks if the vehicle speed exceeds the limit by 3 km/h (2 mph) or more. The vehicle's maximum speed - regardless of the accelerator input by the driver - will not exceed this limit. When the vehicle passes a sign indicating a higher speed limit, it will allow the driver to accelerate until the vehicle reaches the new maximum permitted speed, at which point it will prevent the vehicle from exceeding the new speed limit. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Lane Departure Warning

Lane Departure Warning uses the multi-purpose camera to track lane markings on the road. If the car deviates from its current lane without indicating, Lane Departure Warning alerts the driver with audible and visual warnings. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

High Beam Support System

High Beam Support System works at speeds of more than 40 km/h (25 mph) to switch High Beam head lights on or off automatically depending on oncoming or preceding vehicles (cars, trucks and motorcycles), bicycles and environmental brightness. The system can be turned off by the driver at any time.

Passive-safety engineered into the structure

Every all-new HR-V incorporates Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology to form the foundation for excellent passive-safety performance, enhancing occupant crash protection.

A network of connected structural elements distributes crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE also helps minimise the potential for under-ride or over-ride situations that can happen during head-on or offset frontal impacts with a larger or smaller vehicle.

Every new HR-V sold in Europe is equipped with a total of eight airbags, maximising occupant protection. The front, side and full-length curtain airbags are all advanced 'intelligent' designs and are triggered only when absolutely necessary. The front seat head restraints are designed to reduce the effects of whiplash injury.

The new HR-V is designed and engineered to achieve a top scoring five-star safety rating in the latest and toughest Euro NCAP crash tests.

Accessories and option packs add style, technology and functionality

The all-new HR-V is available with a wide variety of accessory packs and individual accessories allowing owners to enhance or adapt their car to suit their personal requirements and tastes.

Chrome Pack

The elegant appearance of the HR-V can be enhanced by adding chrome accents to the car. This accessory pack includes a front bumper garnish, rear bumper garnish, door lower garnish and rear license garnish, all in a chrome finish.

Robust Pack

The Robust Pack gives the HR-V a stronger, more rugged look and includes items that combine aesthetic appeal and protective function. The pack includes a front lower garnish, rear lower garnish and side lower garnish.

Aero Pack

The Aero Pack gives the HR-V an even more sophisticated appearance. It enhances the exterior of the car by using colour-match accessories. This pack includes a front aero bumper, rear aero bumper and running boards.

Illumination Pack

The Illumination Pack creates a sophisticated interior atmosphere through subtle ambient lighting whilst providing extra visibility to the exterior. It includes puddle lights and illuminated doorstep garnishes.

Convenience Pack

Designed to help keep the HR-V looking great for longer, the Convenience Pack provides a combination of accessories designed to protect the car from scrapes, scratches, mud and sand. The durable doorstep garnishes, front and rear mudguards and side body trims will protect the car from weathering and surface wear and tear.

Cargo Pack

The Cargo Pack is for those who regularly need to transport luggage or specialised equipment for work or leisure. It includes a boot tray with dividers, a cargo space garnish and a rear boot step protector to upgrade the function and aesthetics of the car's boot area.

Milano Red Pack

This pack combines Milano Red accents in the mirror caps and the 18-inch alloy wheels to give the car a stylish yet playful look. It includes door mirror covers in Milano Red and 18-inch Ignis alloy wheels with Milano Red spokes.

Single option accessories

The HR-V is also available with a range of single options, such as Honda 3D Sound.

This audio upgrade faithfully reproduces music by adding a compact DSP (digital signal processing) unit to the standard Honda sound system in the car, enhancing the listening experience to give a live concert hall feeling.

A tablet holder provides an opportunity to keep passengers entertained. The holder's different positions provide a comfortable space to watch a movie, read emails or play games.

A detachable trailer hitch that matches the bodywork, performance and towing capacity of the car is available. It has a maximum towing capacity of 1,400 kg for diesel cars, 1,000 kg for petrol cars and a maximum vertical load of 70 kg. Thanks to a foldable socket plate it becomes invisible when not in use. A fixed trailer hitch is also available.

The dog guard will keep pets and luggage safe and secure within the luggage compartment area of the car while driving. It divides the passenger compartment from the luggage compartment between the rear seat back and roof interior.

A waterproof, anti-slip boot tray can be selected that is perfectly formed to the car's boot shape and has raised edges to protect the car's finish from any dirt and scratches. It also includes dividers to keep everything neat and tidy.

Three exciting alloy wheel designs are available that provide the perfect accompaniment to the HR-V's rugged style. The 18-inch Fortis design features a diamond cut Rombo Silver and gloss clear coat. The 18-inch Ignis has a two-toned Gunpowder Black, Milano Red and matte clear coat, while the 18-inch Potis has a diamond cut Proud Silver and gloss clear coat.

Strong, secure cross bars can be selected to be used with the existing roof rails to expand the HR-V's carrying capacity. A choice of attachments allows everything from skis and snowboards to bicycles and extra luggage to be carried, creating more space and comfort for passengers within the car. The cross bars can carry loads up to 75 kg or a maximum of two bicycles and includes four locks for additional security.

The dynamic looks of the HR-V can be enhanced with front and rear aero bumpers while Honda genuine running boards can be selected to make getting in and out of the car even easier. These smoothly integrated running boards also add design and functionality and can be combined with puddle lights. These LED lights are fitted underneath the car on the driver and passenger sides and provide better visibility for getting in and out of the car in the dark.

For an extra aesthetic touch, exchangable covers for the side mirrors can be added, available in matte silver and Milano Red. Inside, high tech speaker rings that appear as chrome when not illuminated and give a cool blue glow when illuminated can add a look to match the sound of the system when selected.

The car's bodywork can easily be protected from irritating scrapes and scratches when loading or unloading the boot by adding the cargo step protector. Similarly, the Honda genuine windshield cover helps to protect the car's windshield and mirrors from heavy weather when parked outside.

Also on offer is the guaranteed protection and comfort that Honda genuine childseats provide for children of all ages, from babies to twelve year-olds. Two types are available, with ISOFIX attachments.

Illuminated doorstep garnishes are attractive and sporty accessories that give the car a personal touch while protecting the door sills. Crafted from stainless steel, two designs can be selected: one with an etched HR-V logo and one that features a blue illuminated HR-V logo in the front and rear door sills.

For a final flourish, black Elegance floor carpets with black woven binding and embroidered emblem can be chosen to bring an additional element of HR-V to the footwell.