Reliable, having a good quality, practical, presentable enough even nowadays
Weak sound isolation, solid chassis
Year: 2003
Engine capacity, l: 1,6
Fuel Type: Petrol
Gearbox: Mechanical
Body type: SUV
Car description
It is not SUV, but useful enough in the cities. It is not worth going off the road, but once in a while activating rear axle helps driving up the mountains, on the snow or gravel. In normal situations only the front works. This car is maneuverable, has good visibility, a precise steering wheel mechanism and good brakes. The transmission works fine, although the chassis is a bit solid but the stability of this vehicle is really satisfying. The interior is simple and I’d say a bit boring tough made of high-quality. The dashboard reminds 90s style: minimal electronics, a few buttons and handles. Simple and reliable. Sound isolation could be slightly better especially because too much noise is heard when driving in the highway at 120 km/h or more. Luggage compartment is small, but if rear seats are folded down, a bicycle or a washing machine will fit in.
Performance
1.6 SOHC VTEC will disappoint sport lovers. Firstly, the car is quite heavy and the moment of motor torque prevents from any kind of dynamics. Secondly, VTEC system is adapted to the fuel economy, so there’s no point for the speed lovers to buy it – it will never become a HR-V bolide. If you change gears before reaching 2500-3000 rpm, this engine won’t consume much fuel. Average fuel consumption is approx. 8-8.8 L/100 km; in the city – less then 10 L/100 km; on the highway – up to 7.5 L/100 km (due to aerodynamics, and if speeding not less than 120 km/h it might consume even more). The engine itself is very reliable; of course, its durability will depend on your driving habits and the awareness of the car care.
Reliability, running costs
Since it has the reputation of a very reliable car, you can hardly ever expect for the price to go down. The mileage of my car – 115.000 km. The only thing I‘d change is a hydraulic clutch cylinder.
Recommendations to buyers
If you are thinking to buy Honda HR-V have in mind that CVT transmission is its weak spot. So, it‘s better to choose the manual type of transmission.