Top selling Honda HR-V is a lesson in low-engine-tech buyer appeal
Back in 2014 when I first reported on the car show concept reveal of Honda’s compact HR-V crossover, readers told Torque News that they loved the idea of a Fit-sized crossover with all-weather driving attributes. Pointing back to the slightly underpowered, yet fun to drive Fit 5-door compact hatchback, the hook that was HR-V, wasn’t greater horsepower and torque, but the ease and maneuverability afforded by a compact sport-UTE restyled with coupe-like cabin environment and cutting edge good looks. I compare the Mazda CX3 and Honda HR-V here. Who came out the winner?
Since the introduction of HR-V, the auto industry follows suite with an ever expanding compact crossover offering. Yet, Honda HR-V remains one of a very few offering AWD, and no turbocharged engine. Yet, HR-V ia a Honda best seller for 2017, with 86,491+ units sold year to date, an increase of 18% over 2016 *November 2017.
There is a demand for 4-cylinder simplicity in modern automotive engineering
While attending Honda HR-V’s media event in Miami, way back in 2015, Honda’s Jeff Conrad rightfully informed Torque News that HR-V would be a sales leader based on projected consumer wants and needs. HR-V’s first production year would be subdued (a bit) by teething pains at Honda’s newest North American manufacturing facility in Mexico -- where HR-V would roll off of a common production line with the then reinvented Honda Fit.
Today, HR-V, although slightly underpowered by Honda’s new found turbocharged engine standard, surpasses Honda’s initial sales projections for the 1790cc normally aspirated, CVT shifted, FWD, or AWD 5 passenger compact crossover. We’re seeing many Honda HR-Vs on the road in Oregon, as buyers lineup to purchase what I consider to be a great compact utility package. It’s fun to drive, affordable, and maneuverable in town. Read our HR-V camping adventure here. Watch Parks take Honda HR-V on a freeway run. Impressive, under all road and weather conditions.
Do you own a Honda HR-V? What's your ownership experience with Honda's compact crossover. Please comment bellow and then share. Thanks.o