Looking for an affordable crossover? The all-new 2017 Honda HR-V is a strong contender. It makes the most of its small dimensions thanks to the innovative second-row seat that offers a lot of cargo-carrying flexibility.
The new HR-V uses on of Honda's clever innovations, the so-called Magic Seat that the automaker also used in the Fit hatchback. The seat comes with a flip-up rear seat cushion that, when raised, creates a tall and cargo area between the front and back seats that's great for things like a bicycle or a flat-screen TV. And aside from the HR-V's flexibility, the car also benefits from high fuel economy and an unobstructed outward view.
For 2017, the HR-V also returns essentially unchanged from last year and also continues to be available in LX, EX, and EX-L trim levels with choices of front- or all-wheel drive and depending on configuration, either a 6-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
On the inside, the 2017 Honda HR-V is a nicer place to be compared to the Fit, thanks to added noise insulation, top-quality materials, and finer details. The dual-screen clutter of bigger Hondas is not present in the HR-V, but it's fine with just one infotainment system.
Under the hood, the new HR-V is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission comes standard on LX and EX models, and a continuously variable automatic transmission is optional.
For the LX trims, standard feature highlights include 17-inch wheels, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 5-inch central display screen. Other features include a configurable 60/40 split folding rear seat, Bluetooth, a four-speaker sound system with a CD player, a USB port, and an auxiliary jack.
The EX trim adds a sunroof, automatic head lights, keyless entry and ignition, rear privacy glass, dynamic guidelines for the rearview camera, heated mirrors, and fog lights. Other features of this trim level include a passenger-side blind spot camera, a 7-inch touchscreen display, a six-speaker sound system, and HondaLInk smartphone apps and integration. The top of the line EX-L Navi adds roof rails, a navigation system with voice recognition, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and satellite and HD radio.
The 2017 Honda HR-V will come with a three year or 36,000 miles warranty. The estimated price for this advanced SUV will be the same price of its predecessor, which is currently at $20,000 for the base model.
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