Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2016 Honda HR-V? You're in the right spot. We're going to dive deep into what makes this subcompact SUV tick, so you can decide if it's the right ride for you. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2016 Honda HR-V

The 2016 Honda HR-V marked the debut of this subcompact SUV in the North American market, and it quickly became a popular choice for those seeking a versatile and fuel-efficient vehicle. It slots in below the CR-V in Honda's SUV lineup, offering a smaller footprint while still providing a surprising amount of cargo and passenger space. The HR-V is based on the Honda Fit platform, known for its clever packaging and efficient use of space. This translates to the HR-V having a remarkably roomy interior for its size, making it a practical option for small families, urban dwellers, or anyone who needs a flexible vehicle for various tasks. Its design is modern and sporty, with a coupe-like profile that sets it apart from more traditional SUVs. Available in three trim levels – LX, EX, and EX-L – the 2016 HR-V offers a range of features to suit different budgets and preferences. The base LX trim is well-equipped with essential features, while the EX and EX-L trims add more convenience and luxury items. One of the standout features of the HR-V is its Magic Seat system, which allows for multiple cargo configurations, making it easy to transport items of various shapes and sizes. The HR-V's fuel efficiency is another major selling point, offering excellent gas mileage for both city and highway driving. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V is a well-rounded subcompact SUV that offers a compelling combination of space, fuel efficiency, and versatility. Its thoughtful design and practical features make it a strong contender in its class, and a popular choice for those seeking a small but capable vehicle.

Performance and Fuel Efficiency

When we talk about performance and fuel efficiency, the 2016 Honda HR-V strikes a nice balance that appeals to a wide range of drivers. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a lot, it's perfectly adequate for daily commuting and city driving. The HR-V isn't designed to be a speed demon, but it provides enough power for confident acceleration and merging onto the highway. The engine is paired with either a six-speed manual transmission (available only on the LX trim with front-wheel drive) or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is the more common choice and contributes to the HR-V's impressive fuel economy. Speaking of fuel efficiency, the 2016 HR-V really shines in this area. With the CVT and front-wheel drive, it achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. Even with all-wheel drive, the fuel economy is still respectable, at 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. These numbers make the HR-V one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class, helping you save money at the pump. The driving experience is comfortable and easy, with light steering and a smooth ride. The HR-V is also relatively nimble, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and park in crowded urban areas. While it's not the most exciting vehicle to drive, it's certainly practical and efficient, which are important qualities for many buyers. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a balanced combination of performance and fuel efficiency that makes it a great choice for daily driving and commuting. Its fuel-sipping engine and comfortable ride make it a practical and economical option for those seeking a small SUV.

Interior and Features

Let's step inside and explore the interior and features of the 2016 Honda HR-V. One of the first things you'll notice is the spaciousness of the cabin, especially considering the HR-V's small footprint. The interior design is modern and functional, with a clean and uncluttered layout. The materials used are generally of good quality, although there are some hard plastics in certain areas. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample headroom and legroom for both the driver and passenger. The rear seats are also surprisingly spacious, with enough room for adults to sit comfortably on shorter trips. However, the real highlight of the HR-V's interior is its Magic Seat system. This innovative feature allows you to fold the rear seats in multiple configurations, creating a variety of cargo-carrying options. You can fold the rear seats flat to create a large, flat cargo area, or you can flip the rear seat cushions up to create a tall, narrow space for carrying items like plants or bikes. This flexibility makes the HR-V incredibly versatile and practical for hauling all sorts of cargo. In terms of features, the 2016 HR-V offers a decent array of amenities, depending on the trim level. The base LX trim comes standard with features like a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. The EX trim adds features like a touchscreen infotainment system, automatic climate control, and Honda's LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring system. The top-of-the-line EX-L trim includes leather upholstery, heated front seats, and satellite radio. While the infotainment system is fairly easy to use, it can feel a bit dated compared to more modern systems. However, it does offer smartphone integration via HondaLink, allowing you to access certain apps and features from your phone. Overall, the interior of the 2016 Honda HR-V is well-designed and functional, with a focus on maximizing space and versatility. The Magic Seat system is a standout feature that sets it apart from its competitors, and the available features offer a good balance of convenience and comfort.

Reliability and Safety

When considering a car, reliability and safety are paramount. The 2016 Honda HR-V generally scores well in these areas, offering peace of mind to owners. Honda has a long-standing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the HR-V is no exception. According to various sources, the 2016 HR-V has average to above-average reliability ratings, with few major issues reported by owners. Some common complaints include minor issues with the infotainment system and occasional problems with the CVT transmission, but overall, the HR-V is considered to be a dependable vehicle. To further enhance reliability, it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Following the recommended maintenance schedule can help prevent potential problems and keep your HR-V running smoothly for years to come. In terms of safety, the 2016 Honda HR-V also performs well. It received good crash-test scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave the HR-V an overall safety rating of five stars, while the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick. These ratings indicate that the HR-V provides a high level of protection for occupants in the event of a crash. The HR-V also comes standard with a variety of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Higher trim levels offer additional safety features like Honda's LaneWatch blind-spot monitoring system, which displays a live video feed of the passenger-side blind spot on the infotainment screen when the right turn signal is activated. While the HR-V lacks some of the more advanced safety features found in newer vehicles, such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist, it still offers a solid level of safety for its class. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V is a reliable and safe vehicle that provides peace of mind to owners. Its good reliability ratings and strong crash-test scores make it a smart choice for those who prioritize safety and dependability.

Potential Problems and Things to Consider

Alright, let's keep it real – no car is perfect. With the 2016 Honda HR-V, there are a few potential problems and things to consider before you make the leap. While the HR-V is generally reliable, some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system. The touchscreen can sometimes be slow to respond or glitchy, which can be frustrating. Additionally, the infotainment system lacks Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which may be a deal-breaker for some buyers. Another potential issue is the CVT transmission. While the CVT contributes to the HR-V's excellent fuel economy, some drivers find it to be less engaging than a traditional automatic transmission. The CVT can also exhibit a rubber-band-like feel during acceleration, which some drivers may not like. It's worth noting that some owners have reported problems with the CVT, such as shuddering or hesitation, so it's important to have the transmission inspected if you're considering a used HR-V. In terms of performance, the HR-V's 1.8-liter engine is adequate for most driving situations, but it can feel underpowered when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, or when climbing steep hills. If you frequently carry heavy loads or drive in mountainous areas, you may find the HR-V's performance to be lacking. Another thing to consider is the HR-V's road noise. Some owners have complained that the cabin can be noisy at highway speeds, which can make it difficult to have conversations or listen to music. This is a common issue with subcompact SUVs, but it's something to be aware of. Finally, the HR-V's rear visibility can be limited due to the small rear window and thick rear pillars. This can make it challenging to back up or change lanes, so it's important to use caution and rely on the rearview camera and side mirrors. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V has a few potential problems and things to consider, but these are relatively minor compared to its many strengths. By being aware of these issues, you can make a more informed decision about whether the HR-V is the right car for you.

Is the 2016 Honda HR-V a Good Car? - The Verdict

So, is the 2016 Honda HR-V a good car? After taking a comprehensive look at its various aspects, the answer is generally yes. The 2016 Honda HR-V offers a compelling combination of versatility, fuel efficiency, and reliability, making it a strong contender in the subcompact SUV class. Its spacious interior and Magic Seat system provide ample cargo-carrying options, while its fuel-efficient engine helps you save money at the pump. The HR-V also boasts good safety ratings and a reputation for reliability, giving you peace of mind on the road. Of course, the HR-V isn't perfect. It has some minor drawbacks, such as a sometimes glitchy infotainment system, limited rear visibility, and a less-than-thrilling driving experience. However, these shortcomings are relatively minor compared to its many strengths. For those seeking a practical and efficient small SUV, the 2016 Honda HR-V is definitely worth considering. It's a great choice for small families, urban dwellers, or anyone who needs a versatile vehicle for various tasks. If you're in the market for a used HR-V, be sure to do your research and have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that it's in good condition. Also, compare prices and features to find the best deal. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V is a well-rounded and capable subcompact SUV that offers a lot of value for the money. Its versatility, fuel efficiency, and reliability make it a smart choice for those seeking a practical and economical vehicle. So, if you're looking for a small SUV that can handle a variety of tasks, the 2016 Honda HR-V is definitely worth a look!