Those searching for a vehicle that features compact-car type elements but rides at a higher elevation should take a closer look at the 2019 Honda HR-V. This amazing little SUV comes with more trim choices than in previous year models. Even better, it really delivers in the fuel economy department as well as in overall drivability!
A Few Changes for 2019
For 2019, Honda decided to give the vehicle a major makeover. This makeover includes new interior and exterior styling, a few more trim options (Sport and Touring), and technological advancements like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The company has also added a volume knob to the touchscreen audio system. Now drivers will once again be able to reach out and adjust the volume with a slight hand rotation.
Driving It
Prospective buyers should not expect a ton of speed when you get behind the wheel this SUV. What they can expect is still a fun driving experience. The vehicle is equipped with a 1.8-liter engine that produces roughly 141 horsepower. It accelerates and passes slower moving vehicles just fine. Honda tweaked the engine a bit, so the new one doesn’t have to work as hard as older engines. This ease is due to a modified continuously variable automatic transmission. This feature uses stepped gear changes, mimicking the operations of a traditional transmission.
The HR-V comes with nicely weighted steering and a stiff suspension. Together, these two elements make the compact SUV a blast to take on winding roads. In all, the vehicle provides a comfortable ride that doesn’t feel overly soft.
Those focused on the steering response should check out the Sport trim. Honda is equipping it with variable-gear-ratio, electric-power steering. This feature gives drivers a varied steering response that’s based on the speed at which they’re traveling. It will firm up the steering when they increase their speed, and provide more assistance when they’re in the city going a bit slower.
This SUV really shines when it comes to fuel economy. Those bringing home a new HR-V can expect roughly 28 miles per gallon in the city and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. The combined numbers are 30 miles per gallon.
Handy Amenities
A feature of the 2019 update that users are bound to appreciate is the Magic Seat flip-up rear seat option. This feature allows for the transport of taller items like a standing lamp or a nightstand. The subcompact offers 60 cubic feet of cargo, making it one of the most accommodating small SUVs on the market today.
Honda also added a few driver aids to the EX and higher trim levels, such as a road-departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, and collision avoidance. Customers can also get the car company’s LaneWatch system, which uses a passenger-side camera to show vehicles that are alongside the HR-V when the driver activates the turn signal. This feature is standard.
Other Standard Equipment
The HR-V 2019 model comes with standard equipment like a rearview backup camera, Bluetooth, and cruise control. The audio system is a four-speaker setup that has USB inputs and a 5-inch display. The upgraded EX trim level provides amenities like heated front seats, a moonroof, and push-button start. This model also comes with a six-speaker audio system, 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and touch-sensitive climate control system.
What’s Optional?
As with every vehicle out there, you can upgrade your Honda HR-V with optional equipment. Choices include 18-inch alloy wheels with the Sport trim and leather interior with the Touring model. The Touring trim also offers an 8-way-power driver’s seat, making it easy to adjust a seat to the most comfortable position. The Touring trim features LED headlights and fog lights along with navigation. Potential customers can upgrade any model to include all-wheel drive and Honda’s RealTime program. The RealTime system automatically activates the rear tires if they’re needed. It also determines how much power the tires need.
Exterior Styling
This 2019 Honda SUV displays a streamlined, sporty exterior that is likely to retain a modern, current appearance for years. With its sloped hood and attractive grille, owners will love walking up to this vehicle in the parking lot. Color options for the HR-V are traditional: silver, black, red and white.
Plenty of Bang for the Buck
While most subcompacts struggle to give consumers the practical benefits that full-size SUVs offer, the 2019 Honda HR-V does a great job of managing its size limitations. This gives consumers plenty of bang for their buck! The carmaker used its ingenuity to provide as much space as possible and being a fun vehicle to drive.