Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a 2019 Honda HR-V in Australia? You've come to the right place. This review dives deep into everything you need to know before making a decision. We're talking performance, features, reliability, and whether it stacks up in the competitive Aussie market. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2019 Honda HR-V

The 2019 Honda HR-V is a subcompact SUV that combines the practicality of a hatchback with the elevated driving position and rugged looks of an SUV. It's aimed at city dwellers and small families who need a versatile vehicle that's easy to park and fuel-efficient. The HR-V stands out for its clever use of space, thanks to Honda's Magic Seat system, which allows for various seating configurations and cargo-carrying options. In Australia, the 2019 HR-V was available in several trims, each offering a different level of features and equipment. Under the hood, you'll typically find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While it's not the most powerful engine, it provides adequate performance for daily driving. Let's take a closer look at what makes the 2019 HR-V tick.

Exterior Design

The HR-V's exterior design is modern and sleek, with a coupe-like profile that sets it apart from more boxy SUVs. The front fascia features a bold grille and sharp headlights, while the rear boasts distinctive taillights and a sporty bumper. The overall look is youthful and appealing, making it a popular choice among younger buyers. Depending on the trim level, you might find features like alloy wheels, roof rails, and fog lights. The HR-V's compact dimensions make it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, while its elevated ride height provides good visibility.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the 2019 HR-V offers a comfortable and well-designed cabin. The dashboard is simple and functional, with easy-to-reach controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. Higher trim levels come with features like a touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a rearview camera. The Magic Seat system is a standout feature, allowing you to fold the rear seats flat or flip them up to create a tall cargo area. This versatility makes the HR-V ideal for hauling everything from groceries to bikes. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on longer drives. However, some reviewers have noted that the rear seats can be a bit cramped for taller adults.

Performance and Handling

Okay, let's talk about how the 2019 HR-V actually drives. The 1.8-liter engine provides adequate power for city driving, but it can feel a bit strained when accelerating or climbing hills. The CVT transmission is smooth and efficient, but it can sometimes drone under hard acceleration. The HR-V's handling is nimble and responsive, making it easy to navigate through traffic. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes. Overall, the HR-V is a comfortable and easy-to-drive SUV, but it's not the most exciting vehicle on the road.

Engine and Transmission

The 2019 HR-V is powered by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces around 105kW of power and 172Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT transmission that sends power to the front wheels. While the engine is not particularly powerful, it's fuel-efficient and reliable. The CVT transmission is designed to maximize fuel economy, but it can sometimes feel a bit sluggish. Some drivers may find the lack of a traditional automatic transmission disappointing, but the CVT is generally smooth and responsive.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the HR-V's strong points is its fuel efficiency. The 2019 model is rated to achieve around 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers on the combined cycle. In real-world driving, you can expect to see similar figures, making the HR-V a frugal choice for daily commuting. The CVT transmission plays a key role in achieving these impressive fuel economy numbers. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient SUV, the HR-V is definitely worth considering.

Ride and Handling

The HR-V's ride and handling are well-suited to city driving. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The HR-V is also relatively quiet inside, with minimal wind and road noise. Overall, the HR-V is a comfortable and refined SUV that's easy to live with.

Key Features and Technology

The 2019 Honda HR-V comes packed with a range of features and technology, depending on the trim level. Some of the key features include:

• Touchscreen Infotainment System: The HR-V features a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, allowing you to access your favorite apps and music on the go.
• Rearview Camera: A rearview camera is standard on all models, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces.
• Magic Seat System: The Magic Seat system allows you to configure the rear seats in various ways, creating a versatile cargo area.
• Climate Control: Automatic climate control keeps the cabin comfortable, regardless of the weather outside.
• Cruise Control: Cruise control makes it easy to maintain a constant speed on the highway.
• Safety Features: The HR-V comes with a range of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags.

Reliability and Safety

When it comes to reliability, the Honda HR-V has a good reputation. Honda is known for building reliable vehicles, and the HR-V is no exception. However, like any car, the HR-V can experience problems from time to time. Some common issues include:

• CVT Transmission Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission, such as hesitation or jerking.
• Air Conditioning Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the air conditioning system, such as weak airflow or failure to cool.
• Electrical Problems: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system, such as malfunctioning sensors or lights.

Despite these potential issues, the HR-V is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle. Regular maintenance and servicing can help to prevent many of these problems.

Safety Ratings

The 2019 Honda HR-V has been tested by various safety organizations and has received good ratings. The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) awarded the HR-V a 5-star safety rating, indicating a high level of safety for occupants. The HR-V comes standard with a range of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels may also include advanced safety features such as forward collision warning and lane departure warning.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear picture, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2019 Honda HR-V:

Pros:

• Fuel Efficiency: Excellent fuel economy makes it a budget-friendly choice.
• Versatile Interior: The Magic Seat system provides unmatched versatility.
• Compact Size: Easy to park and maneuver in the city.
• Reliable: Honda has a reputation for building reliable vehicles.
• Good Safety Ratings: The HR-V has received good safety ratings from various organizations.

Cons:

• Engine Power: The engine can feel underpowered, especially when accelerating or climbing hills.
• CVT Transmission: The CVT transmission can be noisy and unresponsive at times.
• Rear Seat Space: Rear seat space can be cramped for taller adults.
• Basic Features: Some features are only available on higher trim levels.

Alternatives to the Honda HR-V

If you're not completely sold on the HR-V, there are several other subcompact SUVs that you might want to consider. Some popular alternatives include:

• Mazda CX-3: The CX-3 is known for its sporty handling and stylish design.
• Toyota C-HR: The C-HR offers a distinctive look and a comfortable ride.
• Hyundai Kona: The Kona is a fun-to-drive SUV with a bold design and a range of features.
• Mitsubishi ASX: The ASX is a practical and affordable SUV with a spacious interior.

Is the 2019 Honda HR-V Worth It?

So, is the 2019 Honda HR-V worth it? The answer depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient, versatile, and reliable subcompact SUV, the HR-V is definitely worth considering. Its Magic Seat system and compact size make it ideal for city dwellers and small families. However, if you need a more powerful engine or more spacious rear seats, you might want to consider one of the alternatives. Ultimately, the best way to decide is to take the HR-V for a test drive and see if it meets your needs.

Hopefully, this review has given you a comprehensive overview of the 2019 Honda HR-V in Australia. Happy car shopping, guys!