Hey guys! Are you wondering if the 2016 Honda HR-V is a good car? You've come to the right place. Let's dive into a comprehensive review of the 2016 Honda HR-V to help you make an informed decision. We'll explore its performance, reliability, safety features, interior, and overall value to determine if it's the right fit for you.

Overview of the 2016 Honda HR-V

The 2016 Honda HR-V marks the entry of Honda into the subcompact SUV market, offering a blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and Honda's renowned reliability. This vehicle is based on the Honda Fit platform, which is known for its flexible interior space and clever packaging. The HR-V aimed to attract young urban dwellers and small families looking for a versatile and economical vehicle. It came at a time when the subcompact SUV segment was gaining traction, and Honda sought to capitalize on this trend by providing a vehicle that was both functional and stylish. The HR-V distinguished itself with its Magic Seat system, allowing for various cargo configurations, a feature borrowed from the Fit. It also boasted a suite of available technology and safety features, making it a competitive option in its class. From its launch, the 2016 HR-V was seen as a practical and efficient choice, appealing to those who needed the utility of an SUV but preferred the smaller footprint and better fuel economy of a subcompact car.

The HR-V's design was intended to be modern and appealing, with a coupe-like profile and hidden rear door handles to give it a sporty look. Inside, the HR-V offered a well-designed cabin with quality materials and an intuitive layout. It was available in three trim levels: LX, EX, and EX-L, each offering increasing levels of features and amenities. The base LX model provided essential features such as a rearview camera and Bluetooth connectivity, while the EX and EX-L trims added features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, and a sunroof. Under the hood, all 2016 HR-V models were powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a six-speed manual transmission (on the LX model with front-wheel drive) or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT was the more common choice and helped the HR-V achieve impressive fuel economy ratings. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V was designed to be a versatile, efficient, and stylish subcompact SUV that offered a lot of value for its price point.

Performance and Handling

When evaluating whether the 2016 Honda HR-V is a good car, performance and handling are critical aspects to consider. The HR-V is equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a lot, it's generally adequate for city driving and everyday commuting. However, when fully loaded with passengers and cargo, or when tackling steep inclines, the engine can feel a bit strained. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), which is the more common transmission option, prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. This means that while the HR-V can achieve impressive gas mileage, the acceleration can sometimes feel sluggish, especially when trying to merge onto a highway or pass another vehicle.

In terms of handling, the 2016 HR-V offers a comfortable and composed ride. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate through urban environments. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a relatively smooth ride for both the driver and passengers. However, it's important to note that the HR-V is not designed for sporty driving. The focus is more on comfort and practicality rather than sharp handling and cornering performance. Some reviewers have noted that the HR-V can exhibit some body roll in corners, but overall, it remains stable and predictable. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction in slippery conditions, making it a good choice for those who live in areas with snow or rain. Ultimately, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a balanced driving experience that prioritizes fuel efficiency and comfort over outright performance. It's well-suited for daily commutes and city driving, but may not be the best choice for those seeking a more engaging or sporty driving experience.

Reliability and Maintenance

Reliability is a key factor when determining if the 2016 Honda HR-V is a good car. Honda has a long-standing reputation for producing reliable vehicles, and the HR-V generally lives up to this expectation. According to various sources, including consumer reports and reliability surveys, the 2016 HR-V has above-average reliability ratings. Owners have reported few major issues, with most complaints centering around minor electrical problems or issues with the infotainment system. The engine and transmission are generally considered to be robust and dependable, contributing to the HR-V's overall reliability.

Maintenance for the 2016 HR-V is also relatively straightforward and affordable. Honda vehicles are known for their ease of maintenance, and the HR-V is no exception. Routine maintenance tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tire rotations are typically inexpensive and can be performed at any reputable mechanic. The HR-V also benefits from Honda's extensive dealer network, making it easy to find qualified service technicians and genuine Honda parts. One thing to keep in mind is that the CVT transmission requires specific maintenance, including regular fluid changes, to ensure its longevity. Failing to properly maintain the CVT can lead to premature wear and potential issues down the road. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V is considered a reliable vehicle with reasonable maintenance costs, making it a good choice for those seeking a dependable and hassle-free ownership experience. Regular maintenance and adherence to the recommended service schedule will help ensure that the HR-V remains in good condition for years to come.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is paramount when considering any vehicle, and the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a range of safety features and respectable safety ratings. Standard safety features on the 2016 HR-V include anti-lock brakes (ABS), stability control, traction control, multiple airbags (including front, side, and curtain airbags), and a rearview camera. These features work together to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Higher trim levels, such as the EX and EX-L, 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.

In terms of safety ratings, the 2016 Honda HR-V performed well in crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA awarded the HR-V an overall safety rating of five stars, the highest possible rating, indicating a good level of protection in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. The IIHS also gave the HR-V good ratings in several crashworthiness categories, although it's important to note that the HR-V did not receive the IIHS's top safety pick award due to marginal performance in the small overlap front crash test. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a solid set of safety features and respectable safety ratings, making it a safe and reliable choice for drivers and passengers alike. While it may not have all the latest advanced safety technologies, it provides a good level of protection in the event of a collision.

Interior and Comfort

The interior and comfort of the 2016 Honda HR-V are significant factors to consider. The HR-V's interior is designed with practicality and functionality in mind. One of its standout features is the Magic Seat system, which allows for a variety of seating and cargo configurations. The rear seats can be folded flat to create a large, flat cargo area, or the seat bottoms can be folded up to accommodate tall items. This versatility makes the HR-V incredibly practical for hauling a variety of items, from luggage to sports equipment to furniture.

The front seats are generally comfortable and supportive, although some drivers may find them lacking in lumbar support for long trips. The rear seats offer decent legroom for adults, although taller passengers may feel a bit cramped on longer journeys. The HR-V's cabin is well-designed with quality materials and an intuitive layout. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with easy-to-reach controls. The infotainment system is straightforward to use, although some reviewers have noted that the touchscreen can be slow to respond at times. In terms of comfort, the 2016 HR-V offers a relatively quiet and smooth ride, although some road noise can be noticeable at higher speeds. The climate control system is effective at maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the cabin. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a practical and comfortable interior with a focus on versatility and functionality. The Magic Seat system is a standout feature that sets it apart from many of its competitors, making it a great choice for those who need a vehicle that can handle a variety of cargo and passenger configurations.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is a major selling point for the 2016 Honda HR-V. The HR-V is designed to be an efficient and economical vehicle, and it delivers impressive gas mileage in both city and highway driving. According to EPA estimates, the front-wheel-drive HR-V with the CVT transmission achieves 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 31 mpg. The all-wheel-drive version is slightly less efficient, with EPA estimates of 27 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, for a combined rating of 29 mpg. These fuel economy numbers are among the best in the subcompact SUV class, making the HR-V a great choice for those who want to save money on gas.

In real-world driving, many owners have reported achieving fuel economy numbers that are close to or even exceed the EPA estimates. The HR-V's efficient engine and CVT transmission work together to maximize fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for daily commutes and long road trips. One thing to keep in mind is that driving habits can have a significant impact on fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking can decrease fuel efficiency, while smooth and steady driving can help maximize gas mileage. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers excellent fuel economy, making it a practical and economical choice for those who want to save money on gas without sacrificing versatility and functionality. Its impressive gas mileage, combined with its affordable price and low maintenance costs, make it a great value for budget-conscious buyers.

Price and Value

When evaluating the 2016 Honda HR-V, price and value are essential considerations. The 2016 HR-V was positioned as an affordable option in the subcompact SUV segment, offering a lot of features and versatility for its price point. The base LX model started at around $19,000, while the top-of-the-line EX-L model with all-wheel drive could reach around $26,000. These prices were competitive with other vehicles in its class, such as the Mazda CX-3, Jeep Renegade, and Chevrolet Trax.

In terms of value, the 2016 HR-V offers a lot for its price. It comes standard with a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and Honda's Magic Seat system, which provides a high degree of versatility and functionality. Higher trim levels add features like a touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, a sunroof, and Honda's LaneWatch blind spot monitoring system. The HR-V also boasts impressive fuel economy, which can save owners a significant amount of money on gas over the long term. Additionally, Honda's reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs further enhance the HR-V's value proposition. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V offers a compelling combination of affordability, features, versatility, and fuel efficiency, making it a great value for budget-conscious buyers. Its competitive price, combined with its low operating costs and Honda's reputation for reliability, make it a smart choice for those seeking a practical and economical subcompact SUV.

Conclusion: Is the 2016 Honda HR-V a Good Car?

So, is the 2016 Honda HR-V a good car? Based on our comprehensive review, the answer is generally yes. The 2016 HR-V offers a compelling combination of practicality, fuel efficiency, reliability, and affordability. It's a well-rounded subcompact SUV that's well-suited for city driving, daily commutes, and small families. While it may not be the most exciting or sporty vehicle to drive, it excels in terms of versatility and functionality, thanks to its innovative Magic Seat system. The HR-V also boasts impressive fuel economy, making it a great choice for those who want to save money on gas. Additionally, Honda's reputation for reliability and low maintenance costs further enhance the HR-V's value proposition.

However, the 2016 HR-V is not without its drawbacks. The engine can feel a bit strained when fully loaded or when tackling steep inclines, and the CVT transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency over outright acceleration. The interior, while practical and well-designed, may not be as luxurious or refined as some of its competitors. Additionally, some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system can be slow to respond at times. Overall, the 2016 Honda HR-V is a good car that offers a lot of value for its price. It's a practical, efficient, and reliable subcompact SUV that's well-suited for a variety of needs. If you're looking for a versatile and economical vehicle that's easy to drive and maintain, the 2016 Honda HR-V is definitely worth considering.