1999 Honda HR-V Sport review from Japan
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Nothing so far.
General comments?
A VERY classy little car. It's not quite a compact hatchback, not quite an SUV and not quite a wagon ... but it is VERY good.
Engine performance is good for city work and not too shabby on the freeway - a VTEC option with, say an extra 20kw (25hp) or so under the gas pedal would be great!
Handling on-road is very good, the steering is light and direct and the HR-V can be manuvered very easily around the obstacles city dwellers face. The on-demand Four Wheel Drive system is excellent for slippery roads and muddy dirt tracks. It's not for hardcore off-roading though.
The presentation of the car is first class - it's ergonomics are light years ahead of some of its rivals (e.g. Toyota RAV4, Kia Sportage) and Honda's famous attention to detail and build quality is evident everywhere.
Storage space inside is everywhere - Honda claims there are 24 storage compartments. One thing that stuck me as slightly odd - it seat four people but has FIVE cupholders! Go figure ...
Overall, the HR-V is a fantastic vehicle for folks that want a solid compact car that's just a little bit different - or for those who want the safety and stability of all-wheel drive but don't like Subarus. Well done, Honda!
Recommended reviews
  | All show and no go |
  | Just brilliant! I wish I didn't have to part with it. :( |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 10/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Date of Entry | 25th January, 2000 |