Confidence. That was the message I took away from the Honda HR-V media test drive event recently held in Langkawi.
Popularity breeds confidence. In four months, Honda Malaysia has racked up 15,000 bookings of the crossover, which has a waiting period of four to six months if you want one today. But the company wasn’t just touting numbers; everything radiated confidence, from Honda Malaysia’s choice of rival SUVs for the HR-V and their presence at the event, down to the mood of company personnel.
What’s behind the confidence? Real ability or pumped-up hype? We drive the HR-V on local roads for the first time to find out.
The Sport Utility Vehicle market is booming, and growth is not confined to a particular SUV size or region. It’s not just in Malaysia that more and more carbuyers are opting for the high-riding hatchbacks over traditional shapes – we’re looking at a global wave. Reasons vary, but here at least, the SUV is loved by ladies, who either buy the cars themselves or have a big say in the choice of family car.
The higher ride height and larger size/tough outlook of these cars are main draws, but the supermini-based B-segment SUV adds affordability to the equation, bringing the SUV entry point down to meet buyers shopping in the compact family car class.
The HR-V is priced from RM99k to RM118k, compared to RM93k to RM104k for the Ford EcoSport and RM120k for the Peugeot 2008, cars that are technical rivals of the Honda. It’s priced close to smaller C-segment SUVs like the Mitsubishi ASX (RM115k for 2WD, RM129k for 4WD), Kia Sportage (RM138k) and Hyundai Tucson (RM116k to RM135k), overlapping some lower spec variants. The popular Mazda CX-5 starts from RM126k.
The latter group cast make up the HR-V’s real-world rivals in Malaysia, not the Ford and Peugeot. The French brand hacked open a new B-SUV trail when it launched the 2008 in January 2014, a path that Ford joined later in the year with the EcoSport.
Early they may have been, but both have struggled to make an impression with mainstream carbuyers, many of which don’t even know of their existence, much less consider one. How many EcoSports and 2008s have you seen on the road?
No machete for Honda, which is bulldozing its way through. Now, the sub 4.3-metre HR-V may be smaller in footprint compared to the Tucson/Sportage and CX-5, and obviously so; but Honda’s packaging expertise has given it a cabin to not only match, but beat them in space and practicality. Also, the choice of equipping the HR-V with the biggest available engine, a 1.8 litre (a 1.5L is sold in Japan and Indonesia), means it’s closer to the class above than the 1.5L Ford and 1.6L Peugeot, power wise.
Based on the Jazz/City platform, the HR-V has a 2,610 mm wheelbase, 10 mm longer than the sedan’s. Not quite C-segment SUV length, but not an inch is wasted with Honda. The HR-V’s boot holds 437 litres and is expandable to 1,032 litres with the rear seats folded flat, but it’s not just about absolute volume; the shape of the cave matters too, as illustrated by my Nikon above.
Honda brought along the Tucson, Sportage and some random cargo for a demo, and the HR-V’s cabin space advantage is clear to see. Further aiding the Honda’s cause is a low load lip and the multi-folding Ultra Seats that made its name in the Jazz. With a rear bench base that can fold up, the car’s floor-to-ceiling height can be maximised and tall items can be ferried upright. It’s all very simple to operate, too.
For human cargo, there’s adequate headroom at the back for regular sized adults, although the Jazz’s airy and spacious feel is not to be found here, while legroom isn’t as generous as the City’s. Big brother CR-V and Nissan X-Trail aside, mid-size SUVs aren’t really known for rear passenger space, so we doubt that many will be complaining.
Honda makes some coupe noises about the HR-V and despite them penning in a mildly sloping roofline and Alfa 147-style hidden rear door handles, we can’t quite see the coupe connection. Not the most visually arresting thing on the road, but as the figures show, a safe and inoffensive design is what the masses want. Those yearning for something edgier would have already looked up the soon-to-arrive Mazda CX-3.
For this writer, it’s inside that the coupe flavour is stronger. The HR-V’s driving position is good; not too upright and although one is perched higher than in a Jazz, the shallow glass area and high centre console gives the impression of a sporty car, and this comes from a guy who drives an actual Honda coupe. A high front seat divider can detract from comfort (Peugeot 3008 comes to mind), but there are no such issues here.
The boxed-in cockpit feel works well with the minimalist dashboard design, which in our range-topping Grade V test car is further simplified with touch screen head unit and air con controls. The effect is less strong with the lower spec radio and manual AC panel, but the clean centre console with electronic parking brake is standard across the board. The centre stack is angled towards the driver.
Another unique design cue is the placement of a long strip of air vent on the passenger side in place of regular double central vents, an arrangement that’s not too dissimilar to the Honda CR-Z’s layout. Not a problem for selfish single drivers like myself in a car not designed for rear passengers, but backbenchers used to having direct blasts of cold air might complain.
The cabin design is pleasing, but Honda has also worked hard to impress in cabin quality. Attention has been paid to areas within sight and reach – the soft touch dash panel facing the occupants, centre console sides and cushy padded material on the door cards all feature stitching; while thin chrome borders on the air con vents and steering buttons add a subtle touch of class.
The materials, coupled with the fresh dash design, gives the HR-V cabin a special feel that’s intangible, but important. It’s also a clear upgrade from the City and Jazz, further strengthening the HR-V’s positioning as a standalone model as opposed to being a “Jazz SUV”. That also sets it apart from the EcoSport and 2008, which between them leave plenty of clues leading to their origins.
The HR-V’s cabin design may be unconventional, but it won’t take a long drive before the familiar Honda vibes creep in. Mass-market modern Honda, we must add, before your R-rated mind starts wandering off to big VTECs and red badges.
Not the most communicative, but the steering is light and easy, which it should be in such a car. The HR-V is agile enough when you find some switchbacks to test its footwork, and grip from the touring Bridgestones are decent (we drove it in the rain, too) despite their squeal-happy nature. The latter would be a pretty effective natural warning for Mr Joe Regular (or Ms Jen Regular in this case) to tone it down, but the HR-V’s dynamic reserves should comfortably outlast the bravery of its target drivers.
Never mind the handling; what stood out more was the HR-V’s ride comfort, which did both body control and bump absorption well. Granted, Langkawi’s roads are in much better shape than Klang Valley’s warzone-like tarmac, but Honda Malaysia’s decision to opt for modest 16-inch alloys seems to be an inspired one. The HR-V also avoids being too softly sprung, a good comfort intention that works if roads are smooth and even.
Working in conjunction with the fluent drive and ride is the HR-V’s good refinement. Just like with the impressive current Jazz, the low NVH levels will surprise one who’s stepping in from a previous-generation Honda. A significant part of that is due to the CVT gearbox.
The stepless automatic didn’t have the best start in life. In fact, it was Honda who tried to popularise the CVT with the City back in 2003, and that mixed impression (downright bad for enthusiasts) has stuck to the transmission like a leech. After reverting to torque converter automatics, Honda is now back with a second attempt, and like the latest CVTs from Nissan and Toyota, it’s good.
Smooth and responsive, the HR-V’s transmission could be palmed off as a regular auto ‘box and I’d wager that many showroom test drivers wouldn’t notice. A slightly too excitable throttle at low revs produces unnecessary vroom vroom for me, but otherwise the CVT works well with the 1.8 litre SOHC i-VTEC four-pot, which 142 PS and 172 Nm endows the SUV with a good turn of speed. With a smaller and lighter body, the 1.8L HR-V has no problems mixing it with the 2.0L gang.
Of the lot – Tucson, Sportage, ASX and CX-5 – only the Mazda feels more sporting to drive, with a racier engine note, snappy gearbox response and the best steering of the group. The ASX is let down by poor refinement and cumbersome steering. The Hyundai-Kia sisters? Well, they’re stylish options. Not much of a contest with the EcoSport and 2008, and we shall leave it at that.
Of late, the phrase “game changer” has been thrown around rather freely, but Honda has truly changed the SUV game with HR-V, the confident small guy punching above its weight.
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As a car, the Honda is really impressive.
How Honda engineered all that space, beats me. Its feels bigger than the Civic and probably the Corolla as well!
Its also really well packaged, looks, decent performance, safe and should be pretty worry free. In fact, why buy a Civic or Corolla when you can get the HRV for 120k with all the toys, and space….
Seriously, it is a game changer, cause the EcoSport feels downright cheap – and nasty. Plus that PowerShift transmission….
The 2008 is not bad, but its tight and the 1.6VTi with 4 speed auto is sorely dated.
Now… On to the Hybrid with the DCT – that should be fun.
So it’s cheaper in Langkawi?
Now I realize we all are living in Langkawi, let’s buy this HR-V without any duty!!!
*sarcasm*
So what its price in Langkawi?
I live in Sabah, can kadajawa buys it for me and bring it to Sabah?
I have many friends in Peninsula, can kadajawa buys manages for them too?
Space wasted around the gear knob area. Should have more cup holders there
Why should he buy for you? If you want to buy cars other than Proton then prepare to pay extra. Langkawi people are smarter and are not sohai like you. No matter how much earthquake you experience, you cannot shake off Proton’s protection
Somebody are living in 2 places at same time. that’s insane. No wonder cannot think properly, still buy moving coffin p2 and Toyota.
Hahahahaha
This car is good. Got VSC. That is why sales are so good. Toyota sales dropping because all their cars got no VSC.
VSC is so so vital that driving a car without VSC is suicide.
http://paultan.org/2012/06/27/esp-stability-control-is-a-must-malaysian-motorists-deserve-better-active-safety-in-their-cars/
Read how important VSC is. Thank you Honda!
Goodbye Toyota!
Saga, where is your VSC? People rather buy expensive Honda HRV than Proton Saga because no VSC and crap engine.
VSC is so vital that driving a car without VSC is suicide.
Thank you Honda! Goodbye Proton!
OMG you compare dated car with new SUV?
Are you high?
As I said, you won’t go wrong with sushi cars. Honda has again proved it. We aren’t affected much by this HRV. Still a lot booking on our Rush.
Talking of reliability and product quality, you knew Toyota does better.
Congrats Honda anyway.
Honda sales is going up while Proton sales is going down, more Malaysians are choosing Honda as their first choice of car and not Proton. Why not cheaper national car? Honda offers better quality cars, better engine then lousy quality, crap engine, fuel hungry Proton. Most importantly, Honda has put VSC in the new City while Proton is still selling dated car like Saga which is based on old Savvy more than 10 years ago! Proton kereta rakyat pun tak sayangkan nyawa rakyat, you expect other companies to put more safety in their cars? Better close down Proton, let Honda take over
Buying sushi can still go wrong too coz got Takata airbags inside, later kena recall. Wasting time and if accident happens before getting repair, how?
Now this HRV here, the Altis and Vios is completely dead. Already 1 year launched, you hardly see any Altis on the road because Malaysians are fed up that to get an Altis with VSC, you got to buy the RM139k Altis model.
In UK, Toyota is highly respected. But in Malaysia, Toyota now has become a laughing stock. If you buy one, people secretly laugh at you thinking you are the dumbest person in town cause the Toyota is heavily stripped of its safety features.
Malaysians already now know how Toyota has been cheating people. Until today, even RM150k Camry got no VSC and only 2 airbags. Paultan already wrote long article how vital VSC is 3 years ago and yet UMW don’t care a damn for our lives.
Global price of Camry with 10 airbags and VSC is US$22,000. Besides VSC and 10 airbags, the global Camry has about 20 other safety features that is NOT in our Camry. These features are standard and free on the global Camry.
UMW don’t care about your life. you die or vegetable, they don’t care, janji untung lebih. they take out safety features to save cost. Yet, they charge us 3x the global price of US$22k. We buy for RM180k a heavily stripped down car. Same with Altis. Same with Vios.
Worse still, it is CKD and Made in Malaysia. The price is even cheaper. If US Toyota is sold at US22k and still make a profit, you can bet that UMW will get this car at country distributor price of US15k. CKD it, it will be US$12k (about RM40k). But they sell to Malaysians for RM180k.
Camry Hybrid even better. US$26k. Come to Malaysia no tax. But sold for RM175k
Sam Loo busy dislike the truth. I wonder why UMW staff are so free.
Bravo honda for giving VSC. Toyotaik, even RM150k also got no VSC
OMG!!!! I just checked Mudah. 2013 Toyota Altis 1.8 accident free now selling RM68k.
Aiseh. This is a shocking shock!
Sam Loo is on overdrive. In this post alone he has gone overdrive condemning Korean.
No wonder why people hate you and Toyota.
Sam encourages more sorhai tai lan ngongs to buy kimchis new.
We love it when these rotten cabbage owners gets shown the Hilux after they are denied promotions, looked down by colleagues, having to park far far away at family gatherings, being given a funny look by relatives and most of all, ditched by GF/Spouse
Where do you park your saga then?
I hereby admit, this HRV has killed all my sales. Toyota is bleeding now. 2nd hand sales also bleeding. Go to Top Mark and see, showroom always empty.
Life is hard. Sorry guys. Really sorry kimchi owners. Sorry I kutuk you guys for years out of malice.
It’s that too obvious…
Now I know why Toyota sales are so low and their used car sales also dying. One word…. VSC.
UMw pls close down Toyota. Even kimchi does better than Toyota
You just say the right word…
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Yes, people rather buy foreign cars than Proton even though more expensive. National car project only menyusahkan rakyat. Better remove Proton and let Honda be the ‘National Car’
Then remove moving coffin p2 too
What so fuss about protection? Many countries have it, USA, Japs, Korea, even in China got sort of industrial protection
Honda is great. Nearly all their cars got VSC. Even Proton Preve also got VSC.
But now, nobody wants Toyota. All their cars come without VSC.
Go tell everyone about this. People should know
Toyota now sales are ZERO. UMW staff now got time to come here and thumbs down all Honda postings
Please buy Honda than Proton. Proton sales are so low that are becoming ZERO and will soon close shop. Do you know that Proton’s sales are the lowest for the last few months? When Proton’s sales goes down, Honda sales goes up. Proton salesman are so butthurt and give nonsense comments because they are going to get lay off. My advise is to leave the dying Proton and jump ship to Honda while you can
This Honda HRV is good. The height is just about right. I am about 180cm tall but i don’t need to bend a bit to get into the car. Accelaration is okay, fuel comsumption also low too. I can’t describe all, this car is just brilliant. If you consider to buy a new car, this mini SUV could be one of the better choice.
How about fuel consumption, can beat Vios?
Hahaha not vios shit big time and Proton any model can easily out bit the fuel consumption…
Proton Campro still the fuel efficiency car in Malaysia.
P2 macai stop asking silly and kindergarten questions !!!!
It can beat myvi lagi best FC?
Your kancil anytime can beat HR-V FC
Myvi can save fuel as as Yamaha LC?
Is it free from Takata airbags?
Free or not free, Toyota got no VSC. Your car sure roll over.
Why don’t you get the cheapest model from P1 or P2? Best deal is get a bike. No airbag, any major accident kaput on the spot, no worries.
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Man, can you get your facts straight before you cut and paste your mistakes over and over again?
First off, the Toyota Camry sold in the USA is built/manufactured in the USA. IT IS NOT a CBU model. The American Camry has up to 80% of its parts sourced from the US. And the price of US$22K? In your DREAMS! That may have been the price of a Camry ten years ago in the US. AND its for a stripper model…
And as I have cut and pasted before… Toyota does not sell the Altis in the USA. There is no equivalent version sold in the USA. The closest US Toyota model is the Corolla which just a generic C-segment car in the USA like the Proton Persona is in Malaysia. Just check the Toyota USA website for the truth.
Which is better Camry, CKD USA made Camry or CBU Japan Camry?
Hello, In the US, Corolla is Altis la. I check the price on its website, its 22,970 for a Camry. Even base spec is so much hgher than our High spec.
Kenapa tipu Rokuth?
Both also better than Malaysian made. Here all tidur and makan nasi lemak. Where can work? Halfway welding also, the welder go and sleep in the store room.
Forgive those that has been shown the Hilux and on the verge of jumping off the edge
I know our cars got no VSC. Pls help me. I need more sales. Now sales are so down for me.
Bro, anything can beat Vios. Vios is so tiny inside, even the Myvi is far bigger.
Yes, cannot compare with Saga
Yup Saga is more frugal than dino tech Vios
Saga more frugal? Hahahahahahaha…
Supporters mmg bodoh, Myvi lagi best pun can beat Saga
Bodoh la, Myvi is much lighter than Saga and Vios, because of that it drinks lesser fuel.
But how about safety? New Myvi still no VSC.
1 year old Vios now going for less than rm45k. nobody wants it cause got no VSC
Vios can beat EX5?
No, but Saga can beat EX5
Why drag in p1?
Nowadays Iriz lor, 5 star ANCAP vs Vios only 4 star
Toyota is a suicide car in Malaysia.
Proton is better than Volvo or BMW. Our ministers says so.
Proton is a suicide car in Malaysia.
P1 suicide car? Never heard of that
You talk as though vios is the benchmark for fuel efficiency. Even driven’s test already show city thrashing it in FC test. Only thing Vios is the benchmark is for being the laughing stock. People around are all secretly laughing at how stupid the buyer is.
Saga is the new benchmark
But Vios is godcar, remember?
Its is beyond obvious that this sorhai has been shown the Hilux many times over
What a liar. Come here and lie lie lie. Now everybody in PT know what a joke you are and what a joke Toyota is.
2nd hand market, Toyota sales have also sunk like new cars. People want VSC now. Everybody demands VSC
Apa yang nak sombong kalau anak you pakai proton saga juga?
As long as its not a kimchi, it will have RV
It its a KIA, start writing a will
As long as it is your son saga. It will have RV
We all know his son use Saga.
I give support to my boss Sam. https://m.facebook.com/SamLooRV
He needs all the support. Toyota salesman now begging people like dogs to buy their cars.
Now kimchi got more demand than suicide no VSc Toyota.
the worst part of the interior for me is the lower tier central storage space. Understand it was awkward as they need to accommodate the old-fashioned shifter (eu models get those fly by wire shifter thus more space for the lower tier storage space)
shift by wire is only available to hybrid variant
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HRV better
H – Higher
R – Resale
V – Value
Honda and Nissan always better RV. Toyota has now the worst RV. Go to Mudah and see yourself. Toyota Altis 2013 1.8 model, done only 30k km, now selling RM68k. I call up, bargain a bit, already get RM65k.
This car, hardly 2 years old cause registered in October 2013.
Where is the RM65k 2013 Altis? I searched through mudah -13 altis it is selling at RM95k. Why did you lie to us? =(
Got, 68k / 69k
I also just search. RM68k got.
I think I remembered showing this sorhai the Hilux 2 month back.
This bugger drives an Elantra, red colour
https://m.facebook.com/SamLooRV i support my very rich boss
Such a loser this Sam Loo. Do you know it is because of you alone that UMW sales are so bad? You open a can of worms and everybody now dig dirt on Toyota for all to read and know
I just searched mudah. There is a black Altis for RM68k 2013 model 1.8
A – Always
L – Lie
T – Talk kok
I – Idiotic
S – Salesman
In “my” opinion,
HRV
H=HIGH
R=RISK
V=VEHICLE
the car is so light, engine is so powerful. And honda is design for crash “absorption” no boron steel sad.
Latest trade in value for kimchis :-
K5=RM20k (18-24 months)
K5=RM28k (6-18 months)
Sonata=RM27k (18-24 months)
Sonata=RM35k (6-18 months)
Elantra=RM32k (18-24 months)
Elantra=RM37k (6-18 months)
Not accepted are the following :-
Tucson
Santa Fe
Celaka
i10
Picanto
Sportage
Sorento
Starex
Sour grape. Sales are so bad, now, UMw salesman are coming online again to play dirty. nobody buys Toyota anymore brader
Consider a used Tucson.
RM55k selling
Unfortunately, will not accept anymore trade in
I check, dont have also. Tipu again UMW staff?
wait till you own one….you cry!
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V – Very
I – Idiot
O – Oppresive
S – Salesman
Absolutely wrong.
Consider a used 12 month old Tucson.
Consumers can get from used car yard for around RM55k
Very dai mai
Hilux 12 months from used car yard can get for around RM30k? Hilux can be hailat too you know
don’t lie bro. I check 12 month old tucson all over 100k. Mudah does not lie. But it shows Toyota cars huge drop in RV.
That is right. All those vios fellers asking out of this word pricing. They are only day dreaming. In the end they all have to come to me and I offer 1.2k only.
I export the cars to zimbabwe and make few thousand % profit. Pity those sohai sacrifice their lives and family’s lives thinking RV can save them when they crash. Today a feller came to my yard in a stretcher. I offer him RM200 more for RV of his junk vios trd.
Sorhai will forever be a sorhai.
Fellas selling direct will ask for the world.
When they fail, they come to me.
I buy at RM30k, sell at RM60k+
Low life Sam Loo. Because of him, Malaysians now boikot Toyota.
Actually, please buy Elantra, Sonata or K5. Not the other kimchis as they can no loner be traded in
Currently HrV v spec owner. Very satiesfied the power and space
Why no third row seats?
You think it’s a stupid Exora ah?
Hahaha even X-Trail, Alza and Rush got 3rd row seats. Why not HR-V?
Because it’s not designed to have third row seats. That’s not the purpose. It’s the same as you asking how come a Yamaha motorcycle doesn’t come with a sidecar by default.
Then what’s the purpose of having 3rd row seat in SUV like X-Trail and Rush? Honda supposed to already think about people mover rather than off road usage / cargo mover
Then get an X-trail or a Rush and stop bitching about Honda not having 3rd row seats. What’s so hard about that?
Complaint so much then go buy your Alza, Rush or X-Trail then. Oh and please use the 3rd row seats only since its so important for you. See if you can fit into the 3rd row seat and take a drive to perlis and see how you fare. I just wonder, if 3rd row seat is so important for you means you gonna carry 7 people so i just wonder where you gonna put your luggage??
good…but will wait for cx-3
CX3 too crampy
In my opinion, cx3 is like a lifted version of kelisa size car while hrv is like a lifted myvi in size.
Congratulations Honda!
Sam Loo, in case you do not know..
HRV stands for High Resale Value
1.8-litre Engine, five speed automatic
Six Airbags as standard on all HRV
Vehicle Stabilty Control on all HRV
Five year warranty with unlimited mileage
All for RM98k
Smart Malaysians for choosing a good product!
But for the Money, I will go for the Subaru XV, it is 2.0, all wheel drive, five year warranty, comes with traction control but only two airbags. Heck it is a Subaru!
People that buys sushi new are smart and intelligent people. I don’t wanna talk about them.
I just want more sorhai tai lan ngongs to buys kimchis new so that they will sell it off within 12 months
You also smart because you bought proton saga for your son.
For years you have been lying about RV, now, Toyota sales have plummet because people know about how dirty Toyota salesman are.
Now, everybody thinks ALL Toyota salesman are like Sam Loo. Sam Loo has infact, solely, just by himself, just one man alone, has cause Toyota sales to plummet.
Everybody knows about Sam Loo. Even in other forums, everybody knows about Sam Loo and how dirty Sam Loo plays the game.
Better you continue selling bra and panties la bro. nobody listens to you anymore
Sam Loo is so bored, he likes his own posting like 50x each time. He is King of Refresh pages.
Loser likes his own postings. Bro, Toyota got no RV lah
Go buy a 2013 Altis 1.8 for RM63k. Now that is worth it even without VSC.
Toyota now got no RV
6 airbags is only for the top spec, but yeah, Honda’s back. Just see the FD Civic prices, amazingly well held up.
Sorry not 5-speed auto,
Even better… CVT transmission!
Eat that UMW Toyota and UMW Perodua
Axia 4 dinosaur speed auto
Myvi 4 dinosaur speed auto
Alza 4 dinosaur speed auto
AVANza 4 dinosaur speed auto
Vios 4 dinosaur speed auto
InnoVAN 4 dinosaur speed auto
Hilux 4 dinosaur speed auto
Fortuner 4 dinosaur speed auto
Previa 4 dinosaur speed auto
Sam Loo 4 dinosaur speed auto
Old 22 year old 1993 Proton Wira 4 speed auto
Malu beul Toyota. Malu betul!
Of course malu, even latest 2013 Vios dun have VSC, Saga of course it’s from old Savvy
Yes, Saga sell till 2023 still from old Savvy
Get your fact right, Iriz with VDC can be coming Saga sedan. Only Vios dun have until 2023
Yeah, why give 4 speed dino auto? Proton at least gives award winning advanced Punch CVT. No other automakers can give the same experience
ha ha ha ha Toyota dinosaur!!!!! Good choice of words.
I like “HRV stands for High Resale Value” part… hahaha
Habis la Same Lorrrr, punch line taken by Honda
Sam Loo’s only friend now is his dildo at night. Poor Sam Loo (ori1) and Same Lorrrr. Now everybody knows about their dirty game of condemning other cars RV.
In truth, Toyota has now one of the worst RV
Vios and Altis dead lah. You can see so many old Vios and old Altis but have you seen the 2014 Altis and Vios often?
Wow 6months waiting period..imagine..order now..people who order other cars already use 6 months then only you get your car..if you hv extra car then okla
I encourage you to buy a new kimchi then.
Don’t need to wait, stock available immediately
Such losers toyota salesman
Buy 2nd hand Toyota if you are short of money. 2013 Altis 1.8 going for RM65k in Mudah. I just checked and confirmed. I think he will even let go at RM60k cause nobody wants a car without VSC
But Honda Malaysia is part of Drb Hicom. The money Honda earn will just end up to Proton. Just buy other brand. We are smarter to choose a better brand.
What ur prob with DRBHicom….
owned by my enemy saied mocktar
Why he is your enemy? Care to explain?
The you better sacrifice you life and family by supporting UMW. Stupidest feller on earth
That is the reason why I stopped accepting Tucson.
They are not even wanted in Sri Lanka and Bangaldesh now
I hope your son saga is accepted there.
Sam Loo’s best friend in the night now is his dildo. This is because sales are so bad. ZERO sales. This what happens when you play dirty in the past and bad mouth other cars in forums. Lie about RV. We all know, RV for Toyota now is the worst. 2014 July Camry 2.5 selling now for RM98k, down RM180k. Accident free and done only 22,000km
One wonders why the Subaru XV was not brought along for the test. Now locally assembled, same price as the HRV, similar size. Boxer engine, symmetrical full-time AWD. Excellent handling, stylish, most fuel efficient 2.0 SUV, good reliability record…. hmm, wonder why Honda didn’t bring it along for comparison. Wonder why….
The boot space department has some issues and the XV safety department fails miserably compared to the HRV?
not really…the xv only fails against the top model. otherwise its airbag count is better than the cheaper 2 models…3 airbags for XV vs 2 airbags hrv’s
Samy value…Seancorr iz butthurt honda salesman n obviously thinks he knows better than the rest. To me the hrv rims n the back is fugly n safety wise well definately better vs stupit toyota… as for vsc id never force my car to engage vsc bec i don’t think you need it unless you are one if those myvi racing fanboy or speeding @ wet cond
If you don’t need VSC, why buy car with VSC? Isn’t that stupid?
XV fails miserably to HRV safety wise?
Both have VSC. HRV do not have AWD and reinforced bars in the doors from preventing it from getting stuck in a collision and not being able to be opened. XV only loses out on three airbags to the top spec HRV. What is miserably? You are miserable.
I was about to reply about the boot space and it has been pointed out by Sean.
Another point against the XV is, how many motor image service centers are there?
Honda HR-V is good. Best has not arrived.
still consider a lone ranger in the segment now.
thumbs up for CX3
thumbs down for HRV
Both suck
As long as its not a kimchi, it will have RV
If its a KIA, start writing a will
People are not buying Toyota because of you. You brought up so much dirt on the Toyota brand in Malaysia.
kimchi cars got VSC. That is why kinchi resale is very good. Toyota got no VSC. That is why resale value so low. Mudah does not lie. See how slow Toyota sales are.
Toyota salesman now all nangis like baby. Sales jadi kaput. Dont you feel ashamed Toyota salesman?
overrated.
my wife just bought one without even test drive it, now she is regret for not getting Subaru XV or Sportage.
but what to do, already bought.
Regret in what sense? Poor handling? Quality issues? Space? Brand? After sales service?
Same Lorrrr told him that HR-V value only 30k after 6 months
Sorry to hear you didn’t enjoy with your HRV much,
But you can sell your HRV, the car is very much in demand
And I am sure the resell value is high now.
I agree that the Subaru XV is more enjoyable and would be my pick at this price range. It is a lot of car for the money. Great if you live near their PJ Asia Jaya showroom, the building and the service equipments facilities looks fantastic.
XV = Extra Value?
XV= X Value
Wrong comparison on segment wise.
Mentality on purchasing are poor.
Your wife need to do more research before buy anything…
Or u can just sell it to me 2nd hand price and go get you new subaru or sportage !!!
wrong comparison? is still SUV bro..
he got the money, and he thinks money used on HRV = a regretted choice.
Sell to me.. I dun mind Considering 6 months waiting period.
Can tell that he is a kimchi owner that has been shown the Hilux.
If you happen to know him personally, do stay away as the suicidal thought always lingers in them after the 3rd selling attempt
Tbh now would be the best to pack it off. Waiting would just be a waste.
Having said that, the Sportage and XV is getting old. Sportage is now nearing end of life, plus the sister Tucson is getting replaced already in Korea. As for the XV, its not as safe…
Consider a 12 month old Tucson.
Very dai mai, usually around RM55k from used car dealers to consumers
At least the car got VSC. The owner can live life longer than a Toyot owner with no VSC
Saga got VSC? Proton owners can’t live longer either
Not same, Iriz is already out, safety feature is lightyears above Vios
what is overrated? what regret? tell la. is it the handling ke, performance ke, noise ke, seat too hard ke?
The hrv is the new body version of honda civic 1.8 ..torque,ratio,horsepower are the same..old engine withnew body..lol
Still much more worth it compared to getting a current gen Civic though! Plus its way more functional too! :D
Or you can say it’s oversized Jazz
You can get a truly AWD plus decent fuel economy MINUS sub 400l boot in XV. The Subaru don’t have upper hand in number of service centers nor luggage size BUT at RM104K it’s a steal especially if you’re looking at decent handling car though XV dashboard is nothing to shout for.
Badge wise Subaru also a Japanese automobile with great ride and handling pedigree and a huge discount from original price. RV is can’t be worse since the massive discount already happen.
Having said that, a clever package by Honda with really enticing pricing for the hardly picked entry level RM98K up to RM118K something that very tough for any brand to compete.
Even if you’re ardent Toyota fan l don’t thing 2016 Toyota C-HR crossover will have similar price bracket and a ‘complete’ car as HRV.
Pricing-wise is the Honda major forte since Malaysia pricing not much different than Thai’s merely a RM4K dearer. Using this benchmark though somewhat cannibalizing to some existing model namely Civic or City the HRV is the fastest unit for any none Malaysia cars.
agree with Karl. The HRV ticks many boxes esp. space and flexibility of the rear seat despite being a B-segment car. However, purely for driving I’d rather be steering the Subaru XV. The drive of the HRV is worse than that of the City.
correction:
good handling car doesnt come with good ride.
Conti p1 Ford have both, much better than normal Japs cars.
Are you sure? My Inspira has better ride and handling than a City. I own both.
The HR-V is actually a B-segment that competes with the 2008/Ecosport and not the C-segment Tucson/Sportage/ASX as indicated in the article.
That’s the reason why this article is aptly named “Honda HR-V punches above its weight”..
In reality, B segment sushis will send shivers to C & D segment kimchi owners because they know that their kimchis will have a lot lesser demand and value thereafter
As usual sam.thumb up his own comment. We also.thumb up when you bought your son sag.
Sam has many supporters, unlike you the sorhai
Sam has many dupes. Dildo is his only friend.
I already asked my zon hilux not to ame silly comment here. He.is happy with his saga so far.
I like to play with Ah Beng. We always play with each other. Ah Beng is my only friend
I have many suppoters here, we all like to talk coxk because we are a bunch of uncless sales men got nothing to do at showroom. I am happy my son sam hailat support me buying him the saga. We both need to work harf.
Actually Toyota RV is so bad now. Go to mudah and see for yourself. No secret. No VSC, nobody wants.
The Ford Ecosport isn’t a competitor. If you are brave enough to buy a Ford better have a spare car ready for the times it has to be stored in the SC waiting for parts which may take up to 3 months. If it is a major repair ans they miss out some parts be prepared for the repair period to be extended by another 2-3 months.
Dear Danny,
Is it advisable to change the stock rims to 17″ rims coupled with Michelin Primacy 3 (215/55/17) tyres. What’s the impact of 17″ rims on the HR-V’s handling & comfort level ? TQ.
Can’t comment as I’ve not tried it before
Compared with the test drive done earlier in Thailand in which the HR-V were fitted with 17″ rims ?
As an SUV, what type of offroad capabilities is available for this car? If no offroad capabilities, can we still call it an SUV? KL flash flood can go through ah?
Caaannnnnn if you want more flexible car, buy Vios. It can fly, if you dun believe me ask Same Lorrrr.
Another K5 owner walked into Sam’s yard today.
Offered only RM20k for a 2013 Nov unit.
The bugger almost fainted, had to get him Cap Kapak so that he won’t puke in the yard.
Dem ker lian, these sorhais
Vios 2013 can get how much? RM1k is it?
Where? Show me i want to buy OR i give you RM1k, you give me 2013 Vios, ok?
I give Rm 10k for 10 units…
Vios RV is really low nowadays!! Lesser than kimchi!!
His son saga got highest RV
Supporters can only tokok but cannot show
You know what is the meaning of trade in value or not? Vios trade in value is 1k but I will sell back in used car market for 35k.
Just like Sam the sohai Loo always claim that he take K5 for 20k and sell for 80k. You don’t see any used K5 selling for under 70k.
Sam Loo and SamShowedmethehilux are one and same loser. For 3 years play dirty and dishonest. Now Toyota sales collapse because people already know what big liars they are. Now even more people won’t buy toyotaik
Sam only trades kimchis.
Margin is high.
No point trading sushis as the transactional gap is small
Sam family must be felt very shameful of him. He is such a childish , no integrity uncle. He even expose himself as Sam loo RV at Facebook. You are just acting too stupid and yet he still feel very proud. People who read this forum see you as a piece of rubbish.
Trade in value of 2013 vios is Around RM1.2k. I export the cars to zimbabwe and make few thousand % profit. Pity those sohai sacrifice their lives and family’s lives thinking RV can save them when they crash. Today a feller came to my yard in a stretcher. I offer him RM200 more for RV of his junk vios trd.
this is about honda hrv… either you like it or hate it. why bash other maker’s car?
say something about what good or bad or improvement about the car that mentioned in the article…..
I encourage it go to every single Paultan’s page to say so in future.
You’re having a positive act. Keep it up.
Of course in PT they compare a car to other cars. They even compare Vios to Veyron. Lol
Proof?
Literally, isn’t a veyron IS a real godcar? They compare it with fake godcar Vios. It is a big shame
Having been into the Subang showroom next to the EnergyZ sport ‘park’, I find this car to have the weird Iriz aura.
In photos this car looks all kinds of awesome! The wide-jawbone like front, aggresive headlamps, Nissan Juke-like stance and side profile that makes all other competitors look porky by comparison.
In person…something about the front feels off from a standing height POV. The belt line feels flat in person (In photos its sleek) and the tail lamps are too small in proportion to the entire rear surface area.
In comparison, the Honda City in the showroom felt MILES ahead in value, interior quality and ambience. I won’t be surprised if the HR-V ends up as a first year wonder like the Nissan Almera :X… Because honestly, the Honda City looks to be the greatest car in Honda Malaysia’s current line-up.
I don’t think so.
For one, the Almera was flawed – it lacked the safety net of ESP and it looked…. like an Almari.
On the other hand, the HRV is not too bad la… For me I like the HRV’s look, each to it’s own I guess.
The City felt more/less the same as the HRV for me inside though. But I loved the added headroom in the HRV. For me, their greatest car has to be the City and the HRV. The Jazz almost made it, but the lack of LED headlights (available abroad) and cruise control was a no. Good car though, a very easy to drive car.
Never said the HR-V was bad, but i do feel betrayed from photos especially when ive seen quite a few on the roads of putrajaya and subang :X
(My almari looks worse than an Almera k) :p
I suppose my preference for sedan over cross/suv/mpv body styles is the reason why i find the City to be nicer, like how I find the 3 and 5 series to be better looking than the X5,X6 :D
Same goes to CX3 and CX5, good in picture, ugly in flesh
Yuck!!
The City’s rear is so disproportionate and ugly with the F30-wannabe lights that are simply overdone and out of place. For a broad and tall rear tail, they should use small and neat lamps so that the car looks wider from the rear.. look at how it’s done on the Polo Sedan. That’s understated elegance right there.
Our cars are overpriced. See in the US, even a CRV is US$23k
@Jonathan
Your weight is pretty much perfect at this point! You look utterly impressive coupled with that crystal clear speech! -From GF -_-;
@Jonathan
I agree though. But that bright shirt is sorta hiding your frame, maybe try wearing a darker color next time? (Just a suggestion).
Gregory on the other hand seriously needs to wear brighter shirts…
Why you get obsessed with shirts? It’s none of your business
It was just a suggestion my dear, sorry if it offended you :S
In terms of maintenance.. Subaru is a bit kepala sakit.
To access and change the spark plugs.
Have the remove the engine mountings and
lift up the engine about 3 inches.
I mean the Subaru XV
Mr steve kok…subaru warranty for 5 year + free service and parts for 5 years also ma..I own for 2 years the subaru xv..no pocket money keluar lagi when going for service..oil filter/engine oil/gear oil/etc semua free for 5 years…otherwise subaru xv rm109k on tbe road is an all wheel drive and a pure suv..the hrv not a suv with front wheel drive..just a bit a car with a high suspension..and when service very expensive on parts because only manpower service is free..parts sendiri bayar…compare with technology subaru gearbox is much advanced..only use D for drive, naik bukit,speeding same with new nissan x trail…otherwise hrv with old system gearbox with D for drive,L for naik bukit and S for speeding…can compare price and performance top speed/0-100km in youtube…honda still behind…just nama saja bikin kereta mahal..☺
Tak best la ada D je, macam kerata murah. Tengok setengah Honda ada adaptive suspension lagi
As long as its not a kimchi, it will have RV.
If its a KIA, start writing a will
The only will you need is when your Toyota skids or crashes because got no VSC
you not shy? You are the No 1 cause Toyota sales dropped. We talk about you in mamaks even. Because of you, we tell everybody also not to buy a car without VSC.
Thanks to you Sam Loo!
### Wise Suggestion.
this is a lone ranger, other brand is coming with a new b-segment SUV too, literally overpriced SUV.
waiting period is 6 months..
I rather wait 6 months later to choose again.
Tested my hrv 60mph 9.5 second with d~box,subaRu xv 60mph 11.6 second ,CX5 2.o 10.9 second,Nissan xtrail 2.0 10.5 second…..CX3 2.0 8.3 second…but CX3 rear legroom…make my leg pain Kena depan….very stress in this car
you tested already CX3?
RM100k for 2 airbags Honda HRV?
what on earth?
The top spec for HRV in malaysia is ripped off many things in it compare to other country top spec.
Top spec –
1. sunroof
2. full leather seat
3. lane assist
4. AWD
5. navi
honda ripped it off? or who?
Updated trade in value for kimchis (6pm Sun 7 June 2015)
K5=RM20k (18-24 months)
K5=RM26k (6-18 months)
Sonata=RM25k (18-24 months)
Sonata=RM33k (6-18 months)
Elantra=RM30k (18-24 months)
Elantra=RM35k (6-18 months)
Not accepted are the following :-
Tucson
Santa Fe
Celaka
i10
Picanto
Sportage
Sorento
Starex
1. Once it actually gets going, however, it starts to struggle in gaining momentum. A number of factors work against the HR-V here – the CVT is slightly hesitant in moving to a lower ratio under hard acceleration, and its insistence of using taller ratios to save fuel can sometimes catch it out, putting the engine out of its power band when it is most needed, such as when powering through a corner.
2.Some areas of the cabin do frustrate, however – the full-width air vents ahead of the front passenger seem little more than a gimmick, sometimes blowing too much cold air to the face (and not enough towards the rear occupants). The cubby hole underneath the tall transmission tunnel – incorporating the USB and HDMI ports – sounds like a great idea at first, but frequently used items can be hard to get to.
This HR-V is mere jacked up Jazz with Civic engine while CX3 is mere jacked up Mazda2 with azda3 engine.
Sam & I strongly encourage all potential buyers on Honda and Toyota to get Sonata, K5 or Elantra instead.
Don’t have to wait 6 months, you will get them within 1 business day after loan approval.
We need a steady supply of used kimchis 12 months later. Help us prime the supply
Just got my hrv v spec few days ago. 1 word – excellent.
Please do not buy Honda or Toyota.
Buy Sonata, Elantra and K5 new.
Need the supply 12 months on. Otherwise, export market will run dry
the unbelievable…HRV out sold Iriz!! How F up is Protong although both by HiCom.
Better buy great wall M4. Half the price of hrv
No, not the great wall.
Get a car instead of SUV.
Pick a new one, either Sonata, Elantra or K5
I need a steady supply of used units 12 months later
The Power of Dream
Just got mine today. The feeling is lagi best.
are you still enjoying?
Wind noise, break noise,absorber noise, “normal engine nosie’when driving at slow traffic…..enjoy!
are you still enjoying?
Wind noise, break noise,absorber noise, “normal engine
better just used what you have. Buying new car is like throwing away your cash. Plan for house or something that value does not drop too fast.
“lucky me” I owned one in Mar’15.
Unlucky 13,000 that booked! because they are going to cry like me!
never ending issues that the Honda Techline verified (but dare not admit) claimed NO Abnormalities even they recorded unusal noises in engine…..because many also have these disturbing cranking noises!!! Many more issues like replacing ne axile, stucture noise, wind noise, dashboard, sterring, doors that doest shut properly, gear shift issues, pneumatic nosie while driving…..all are no abnormalities! GOOD LUCK to the 13K!