Louth Motors: Honda's New HR-V Lands in Ireland
Space, Style, Safety and Smarts
Honda invited me to Mondello Park racing circuit to see their new HR-V model and take it for a spin locally. They also had their entire range of cars on show and then spoiled us with an opportunity to take a Honda Civic Type-R around the racing track. In the Type-R I got a chance to drive it first on the track and then swap to be a passenger with a proper racing driver at the wheel.
Let's just say the experience was as different as night and day. Oh, did I mention that it is a truly awesome and complete car. The HR-V launch coincides with Honda marking 25 years since its pioneering hybrid, the Insight, was launched in Europe, with this new HR-V embodying Honda's quarter-century of hybrid evolution.
The HR-V competes in the premium compact SUV sector, targeting buyers who value efficiency, advanced technology, and flexible space without sacrificing any style. Its hybrid-only powertrain appeals strongly to eco-conscious drivers and urban dwellers seeking a lower-emission car. Its pricing, starting at €41,750, reflects this but Honda’s reputation for reliability and cutting-edge safety features cost money and is highly valued and so it should be. Target buyers are young families and active minded buyers.
The new HR-V features Honda’s two-motor e-hybrid powertrain, combining a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, lithium-ion battery, and two compact electric motors for a combined output of 131 PS and 253 Nm of torque, delivering a claimed 5.4 l/100km. While the e-HEV system is efficient, the HR-V's 131 PS (96 kW) power output and 0-100 km/h time of 10.6 seconds are, let’s say, modest.
Because the fuel tank is positioned centrally under the front seats, the HR-V offers versatile rear "Magic Seats," allowing for both fold-flat and flip-up configurations to maximize cargo capacity. Honda focuses a lot of attention on safety and the HR-V is no exception with systems like 360-degree Multi View Camera System,Traffic Jam Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking System, and Road Departure Mitigation. You get a nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay but cable-based Android Auto - why?
The design has a coupe-inspired look with a sculpted front bumper, high-gloss black trim, and a full-width LED rear light bar. My picks from the colours are Sage Green Pearl and Premium Crystal Red Metallic. There was no mention of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) option which could be a drawback for those who need extra traction. Equally, while hybrid engines align with Honda's electrification goals, the lack of non-hybrid engine choices, or should I say ICE engines, might limit appeal for buyers who still prefer traditional petrol or higher-powered engines like that wonderful one fitted to the Civic Type-R.
Full review coming soon in Democrat Motoring