Honda HR-V (2015–)

The HR-V is Honda’s take on the compact SUV. Although it revives a name from the early 2000s, this is a brand new model for Honda. Based on the clever Jazz, it packs practicality and features into a compact space, is good to drive and boasts affordable running costs. It makes a very strong case for itself as an all-rounder for small families.

The UK range is a simple one. The diesel option is the 1.6-litre i-DTEC - also found in the Civic and CR-V - which is powerful, smooth and on paper returns mid-50s mpg - a figure readers regularly beat, according to our Real MPG data. Impressive for a car of this size.

Petrol power is a 1.5-litre with or without a turbo. The standard 1.5 i-VTEC is available with a manual or CVT automatic gearbox and will suit most buyers with its satisfactory performance and early-40s mpg fuel economy.

The top-spec Sport model comes with a turbocharged version of the 1.5 engine. It's a weird combination, slightly at odds with the HR-Vs image as a sensible and practical crossover SUV. It's fairly quick, while fake noise piped into the cabin means it sounds sporty, too. But it's very low geared, meaning it's quite noisy at motorway speeds.

Practicality comes in the form of a generous 470-litre boot and the clever ‘magic seats’ from the Jazz, which have been its signature since it was first launched in 2002. Why magic? They fold flat like normal cars and also split, but you can also lift and secure the seat squabs themselves, freeing up space for all items like plants.

In the UK, the HR-V is only available with front-wheel drive. This will be fine for the majority of buyers, but those wanting to tackle unmade roads and farm tracks will need to look elsewhere.

Honda HR-V 2015 Range Road Test

Honda HR-V 1.6 i-DTEC Long Term Test

Honda HR-V 1.5 VTEC Turbo Sport Road Test