The Honda HR-V: Redefining quality and comfort in the world of hybrid B-SUVs

2023-08-11 15:23:17

With dimensions that are already far behind those of the C-category compact vehicles of not so long ago, the B-SUV is positioned as the alternative to consider for many families looking for a practical model. for everyday use, but without great claims in terms of performance. The commercial reference with hybrid engines in this segment is the Toyota Yaris Cross. However, there is an alternative that does almost everything better.

It also comes from Japan and is none other than the Honda HR-V. The Japanese SUV has evolved over the years into a hybrid SUV whose best assets lie in its high interior quality, a strong hybrid configuration and a more solid design than the best-selling models in its segment.

Its high bodywork and square proportions work in its favor aesthetically.

In fact, in terms of dimensions, it is a model close to the position of the smallest C-SUVs. It is 4.34 meters long, nearly 20 centimeters longer than its nearest competitor, the Toyota Yaris Cross. It is now common for Honda to launch cars slightly longer than the usual length in each segment, as is the case with the Civic and CR-V.

Mechanically, the car is powered by a 1.5 liter three cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated gasoline engine produces 131 hp on its own. In addition, a 131 hp electric motor located on the front axle assists the engine block. Performance isn’t stellar, but it’s good: 0-60 in 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 170 kilometers per hour. The best, on the other hand, is the fuel consumption, which is rated at 5.4 liters per 100.

The interior design isn’t exceptional, but the perceived quality and build quality are much better than usual.

The interior design isn’t exceptional, but the perceived quality and build quality are far higher than usual.

On a practical level, it offers good roominess and a trunk volume of 340 liters, which is not exceptional, but sufficient for a family and its daily life, although the Yaris Cross has a larger trunk ( 397 liters).

The most affordable version of the HR-V is called Elegance and, as usual from Honda, it starts with a level of equipment that means that, if you prioritize price over all other aspects, it higher trim levels should be discarded.

It’s not an affordable car, though (hence the quotes in the previous paragraph). Launched with a starting price of 30,500 euros, the model saw its price gradually increase to 34,340 euros. It’s almost 5,000 euros more for the same car than two years ago, although in reality it’s a very similar cost to that of, for example, the Hyundai Kona hybrid, which is another of its direct rivals.

It looks bigger than it actually is.

The Japanese model is protected by a much higher level of equipment than its rivals from its basic range, a better finished interior with an almost premium car feeling and a more muscular and solid exterior design, typical of higher segments.

The most affordable Yaris Cross is available from 26,900 euros. It is 9,000 euros less, but it is also less powerful (116 hp), smaller (4.19 m) and less well equipped. The Hyundai Kona, meanwhile, starts at 33,400 euros before discounts and promotions, develops 141 hp and is a similar size, but is not as well equipped.

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