2016 Honda HR-V: ‘Built for the joy of living’

2016 Honda HR-V's body contour and well integrated sloped top and hatch design will place a smile on the face of the most hardened automotive skeptic. In-fact, HR-V may change the way that you measure sub-compact styling and performance. Yes, we've driven HR-V and walked away more than impressed by its interior comfort, spaciousness and standard safety features. HR-V lives larger than it looks.

While HR-V is unmistakably Honda, the maker takes this sub-compact CUV to a higher level of styling and performance by incorporated the latest Civic Si inspired coupe interior design cues, with a spirited 1.8 liter i-4 engine, CVT transmission(6 speed manual transmission option in FWD model) and Honda CR-V-like real time all-wheel-drive. Packaged in an economical, fun to drive hatchback of awe inspiring good looks and measurable quality, HR-V breaks the mold by taking the cubed look out of the sub-compact hatchback segment.

As reported here, HR-V is assembled in Mexico utilizing a Fit-World-Car platform, yet HR-V lives larger than Fit in several aspects while retaining near-Fit fuel economy and 2nd row Magic Seat ™ transformability. When released (sometime) in late spring 2015, HR-V will be the logical purchase for the Honda Fit fan looking for just a bit more power and coupe-like styling. For those that have driven 2015 Honda Fit Tech, you have an idea as to HR-V performance and safety features, now step on it!

Although Honda hasn't released final sales price figures, we estimate MSRP somewhere in the neighborhood of $19,150 to $24,900. HR-V crossover will take first time and returning Honda buyers to the next level in affordable, fuel efficient performance and utility without breaching the household budget; we like that!

As to exact date of release, price, specifications and ride impressions, there coming from American Honda Motors sometime in April 2015. According to our source at American Honda Motors, the short wait will be well worth the angst, as Honda insures the quality, technical superiority and safety of their next “happy customer,” success story.

Looking to HR-V interior and exterior styling, rim design, wind tunnel tested head and tail light body integration, lower cowlings, fog lights, and cool rear hatch design; a picture says a thousand words. Take a look at the photo above and let the imagination be your guide. You won’t be too far off target as to styling impressions and drive performance when it comes to 2016 HR-V, “Built for the joy of living. ™ “

Take a look at this Japanese Vezel Video. Fascinating!