Honda HR-V – Back to Basics

Honda HR-V 1.5 Hybrid Elegance – €34,360

The car that comes closest to the new hybrid Honda HR-V is probably the also fresh Toyota Yaris Cross. That car is even available as a hybrid from €26,495, although there is a real, white basic version ready with hubcaps and halogen headlights. At Honda, things are a little different. The simplest HR-V is admittedly much more expensive, but is equipped with LED headlights and is simply on 18-inch light metal. The paint is also nice, because the beige-like ‘Sand Khaki Pearl’ looks anything but ‘basic’. For the five other colors Honda asks an additional cost of €810.

The simplest HR-V is called ‘Elegance’ and that is a name that we previously saw with more expensive versions. Perhaps that is why the interior already looks very ‘finished’. Honda also installs a 9-inch touchscreen with navigation, DAB radio, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay in the simplest HR-V. One-zone automatic climate control is standard, as are heated seats and even keyless entry and start. The key no longer needs to be taken out of the pocket or bag to be able to drive away. Of course, every HR-V also gets the Magic Seats in the back, so that the rear seat seat can be folded against the backrest for a large, high load space. Parking is made easy with front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

There seems to be little reason to opt for one of the two more expensive versions. However, they do stand out. For example, the second step, the Advance, has a more extensive audio system with tweeters. This trim level is also equipped with a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, a heated windscreen, an automatic tailgate, a second zone for the climate control, more USB ports fog lamps and half-leatherette upholstery. Top version Advance Style gets even nicer upholstery and distinguishes itself mainly with appearances, although the even more extensive audio system with subwoofer is a nice side effect for this version.