Honda HR-V
Pitched as the new urban SUV set for European shores, the HR-V was revealed last week at the Paris Motor Show to much acclaim. Combining the versatility of an SUV with a coupe-like design, it is expected to be a popular addition to UK roads next summer.
The bodywork is sleek with powerful lines, reflecting those common with leading coupes without compromising the practicality demanded from a modern SUV. Sitting on stylish dual-colour diamond-cut alloys, the striking sporty nature of the HR-V impacts immediately, with flowing creases and gloss-black body cladding. Both the 1.5 litre i-VTEC petrol engine and the 1.6 litre i-DTEC diesel offer excellent performance blended with green efficiency. Both benefiting from a 6 speed transmission, the HR-V remains responsive around urban landscapes as well as physically apt for more challenging terrains. Both engines are the product of Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology series, showcasing a revolutionary approach to combustion engines. Featuring a fuel tank that’s centred, one of the most spacious cabins in the segment is achieved, for both head and leg room. Capitalising on this versatility, the Honda Magic Seats offer almost limitless seating configuration options, including the ability to fold the second row for a flat cargo space.
Honda Jazz
Introducing the new European Jazz, this fresh, sleek and modern design announced Kia’s future intentions for this successful supermini.
A longer wheelbase and centre fuel tank maximise cabin space and create a roomy feel, improving versatility and interior practicality. This is accentuated by Honda’s own Magic Seats, offering countless seating positions that can be adjusted to suit whatever you are transporting. The rear seats are also fixed further back and can be fully folded flat, offering amazing storage capabilities.
The engine has been developed under the tutelage of the Honda Earth Dreams Technology team, benefiting from improved fuel efficiency and higher performance. The new 1.3 litre i-VTEC petrol engine is matched to a 6-speed manual transmission, improving gear range compared to the previous 5-speed limit.
Honda Civic Range
Perhaps the most exciting development for motor enthusiasts at the Paris Motor Show 2014 was the extensive additions to the Civic range, including the standard Civic, Tourer, Sport and Type R.
Benefiting from a fresh front exterior design, both the Civic and Civic Tourer feature a new sporty appearance with a sleek bumper leading to daytime running headlights. The hatchback version also features a new rear bumper, LED rear lights, side skirts and rear black-finished spoiler. Reflecting the quality enhancements on the exterior, the interior has also seen numerous upgrades, including new seat fabrics, stitching detail, chrome handles and a metallic black finish control panel. The Civic range is also proud to premiere an all new Honda Connect in-car audio and info system. Delivering an unrivalled level of connectivity and convenience, this class leading system includes numerous features such as DAB radio, Bluetooth, SATNAV and rear-view parking assistance. Powered by an Android system, the 7” display screen features the functionality of a smartphone and subsequently is amazingly responsive. Standard to all Honda’s from 2015, the City Brake Active System is designed to avoid low speed accidents, scanning the road ahead and applying the brakes if a collision is detected below 20mph. From a practical perspective the Civic’s 477 litre boot and the Tourer’s 624 litre capacity remain the best in the segment.
Coming in either a 1.6 diesel or 1.8 petrol engine the Sport version sets the tone for the eagerly anticipated Type-R. A racing front mesh bumper, 17” alloy wheels and a rear spoiler add some spice, with the black roof lining providing a touch of class to the interior.
Set to go on sale in 2015, the 290bhp 2.0 litre i-VTEC turbocharge Type R is ready to redefine hot hatch enthusiasts expectations nationwide.
Honda CR-V
Refreshed and ready to deliver an optimum driving experience, the CR-V is Honda’s latest success at blending SUV practicality with city efficiency. The brand new 9-speed automatic transmission cuts CO2 emissions to less than 135g/km, 20% less than its predecessor. A 6-speed alternative delivers a class leading sub 130g/km. The four wheel drive is powered by a 1.6 litre i-DTEC four cylinder diesel engine, providing one of the best power-to-efficiency ratios in the segment. Considering the 2 wheel drive version, a 1.6 litre i-DTEC engine offers plenty of power and emits just 117 g/km of CO2. The exterior benefits from a complete makeover, with new headlamps, front grille, bumper and skid-plate for an aesthetic overhaul.
