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HONDA HR-V

SUV Eruption: 2018 Hyundai Kona

May 24, 2018 by admin 14 Comments

Hyundai’s smallest SUV is big on surprises.

2018 Hyundai Kona
The 2018 Hyundai Kona brings sportiness to the small SUV range.

Let it be known that Hyundai arrived late to the subcompact SUV game. Let it also be known that despite its late entry, the 2018 Kona ranks up there with the very best models available.

Indeed, the 2018 Hyundai Kona may have been a long time coming, but the result is a model that matches well against the competition. And not only that, the all-new Kona is stylish, relatively affordable and offers available fun-to-drive characteristics.

2018 Hyundai Kona

Hyundai offers the 2018 Kona in four trims: SE ($19,500), SEL ($21,150), Limited ($24,700) and Ultimate ($27,400). Add $980 for the destination charge. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive (with a multi-link rear suspension) is a $1,300 option. Hyundai offers two engine choices and two transmission options.

The Kona arrives as Hyundai shakes up its utility vehicle offerings. Slotting beneath the compact Tucson, the Kona is joined by a pair of midsize models: Santa Fe Sport (5 passengers) and Santa Fe (7 passengers). Beginning in 2019, the two models will be known respectively as the Santa Fe (5 passengers) and Santa Fe XL (7 passengers).

2018 Hyundai Kona

From Kona, With Love

As implied, the little Hyundai is named for the Kona community on the west side of the Big Island. Interestingly, the Kona’s arrival to the market coincides with the eruption of the Kilauea volcano, which resulted in Hawaii’s most powerful earthquake in decades, never mind the intense lava flow and the destruction it has caused.

Pele is mad and maybe offering a Hyundai Kona sacrifice will appease it. Is it worth a shot?

Stylish, Modern Exterior

As for the model at hand, it has an unmistakable sporty flair in its design. Its front fascia reminds me of the previous-generation Jeep Cherokee with its narrow LED daytime lights at the top with separate headlamps and fog lights below. The Hyundai grille has a distinct crown shape and the hood offers multiple creases.

Along the sides, you will find deep sculpting, contrasting wheel wells and an upswept belt line. I especially like the touch at the rear roof pillar with the ribbed design meeting the liftgate spoiler. At the rear, you will find narrow wraparound tail lamps and puzzle-like combination lamps.

Standard equipment includes automatic headlights, LED lights, 16-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Among the upgrades, you will find LED headlights and taillights, front fog lights, cornering lights, roof side rails, a power tilt-and-slide sunroof, power heated side mirrors, and 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels. You can also order a contrasting roof color — light gray or black — on select trims.

2018 Hyundai Kona

A Playful Cabin

Small SUVs mean correspondingly tiny cabins. But at least with this Hyundai, space is used wisely. It also makes for a usable rear seat, something the Ford EcoSport barely offers. I found the driver’s seat quite comfortable and very good sight lines present.

On paper, Hyundai shows room for five. Four is more like it. Cargo space measures 19.2 behind the second-row 60/40 split bench seat. Fold the seat down and you will find 45.8 cubic feet. That’s less than what the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3 offer, an arrangement that benefits seating room in the Kona. Hyundai supplies a temporary spare and a storage compartment under the floor starting with the SEL trim.

I will describe the Kona’s interior as “playful,” as in fun. My test model came with eye candy in the form of lime accents circling the vents and ignition button and the transmission shifter. Lime piping graces the seats as well. You will also find an instrument scoop, a large open area at the base of the center stack and ample in-door storage areas. The Kona is definitely geared toward youth who might toss camping gear inside or fit a surfboard on top.

Standard equipment includes power windows and door locks, cloth seats, a tilt-and-telescopic steering column and air conditioning. Options include a power driver’s seat with lumbar support, leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, illuminated vanity mirrors and an automatic dimming rearview mirror.

2018 Hyundai Kona

Safety & Technology Highlights

Customers want tech features and Hyundai is very accommodating. The standard audio package includes six speakers, USB ports, an auxiliary audio jack, a seven-inch touch-screen display, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, and Siri and Google Now support. The connectivity features are at the top of their game — some luxury manufacturers still do not offer them or, as in the case of BMW, charge extra for them.

Options include HD Radio, satellite radio, wireless phone charging and an eight-speaker Infinity audio system. Blue Link connected car services come with the Ultimate trim exclusively.

On the safety front, all models have a rearview camera. Blind spot collision warning with rear cross-traffic assist is standard on all but the base trim. An available SEL Tech package adds Hyundai Smart Sense with forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane keeping assist and driver attention warning. The Ultimate model adds a head-up display, high beam assist and reverse parking distance warning.

2018 Hyundai Kona

A Matter of Performance

Hyundai supplies two engine choices with the 2018 Kona. The first engine is a 2.0-liter inline-four with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque. This one is also found in the Elantra and works with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The Limited and Ultimate models have a turbocharged 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine, generating 175 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. Hyundai pairs this engine with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

My test Ultimate came with the hotted-up engine. I’ll reserve my comments about the base engine, which I’ve experienced in the Elantra. Suffice to say, it will get you where you’re going, but not with much excitement.

As for the turbo…oh, yeah! Once you get past the attendant turbo lag, the engine takes over with authority. Step-off acceleration is decent, but full-on power is a blast. My test model had all-wheel-drive and a multi-link independent rear suspension. This combination means the Kona is playful and tossable — take it on a twisty road and you may forget you are driving a utility vehicle. That the Kona sits relatively close to the ground is a benefit too — body roll was virtually non-existent. The transmission shifts gears with precision, serving up the right gear for the moment.

The last time I had as much fun with a tiny SUV as I did with this Hyundai Kona was five years ago. That is when my youngest son and I made the trek through the Appalachians in a Nissan Juke with a manual transmission. The little SUV bobbed and weaved, but it held its own.

I’m thinking the Kona would have performed just as well on that trek, especially when pulling out of switchbacks. It acquitted itself nicely when cornering, something not a lot of small cars are able to do. Mark my words: the turbo all-wheel-drive Kona will make a name for itself.

2018 Hyundai Kona

Parting Thoughts: 2018 Hyundai Kona

The 2018 Kona is more than it has to be, going beyond simply filling a hole in Hyundai’s product line. The new model provides an affordable entry point to the brand and supplies a performance-oriented model when combining the turbo engine with all-wheel drive.

A Kona EV joins the lineup this fall, supplying approximately 250 miles of range on one charge. That’s about 100 miles further than the Nissan Leaf I recently drove and should appeal to consumers in markets where the charging network is strong and the incentives generous.

You will pay about $27,000 for the Kona Limited with all-wheel drive, reflecting the higher price point for utility vehicles. The smaller storage compartment may be its most significant demerit, but that is partially offset by a larger passenger seating area. In all, the Hyundai Kona does more than the new Nissan Kicks and makes the Chevrolet Trax seem downright dated.



2018 Hyundai Kona Specifications

Hyundai 2018 Kona
Segment Subcompact Crossover SUV
Base Sticker Price $20,480 (including $980 destination fee)
Price as tested $29,805 (Ultimate AWD)
Standard Engine 2.0-liter, inline-four
Horsepower 147 @ 6,000 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 132 @ 4,500 RPMs
Transmission Six-speed automatic
Optional Engine 1.6-liter, turbo I4
Horsepower 175 @ 5,500 RPMs
Torque (lb.-ft.) 195 @ 1,500 to 4,500 RPMs
Transmission Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic
Seating 2+3
Curb Weight (pounds) 2,890 (SE FWD); 3,344 (Limited AWD)
Wheelbase (inches) 102.4
Length (inches) 164.0
Width (inches) 70.9 (without mirrors)
Height (inches) 61.0
Headroom (f,r — inches) 39.6, 37.8
Legroom (f,r — inches) 41.5, 34.6
Shoulder room (f,r — inches) 55.5, 54.5
Hip room (f,r — inches) 53.3, 52.2
Storage (cubic feet) 19.2, 45.8
Gross vehicle weight (pounds) NR
Towing (pounds) Not recommended
Payload (pounds) 915/930
Fuel regular
Fuel Tank (gallons) 13.2
EPA Fuel MPG (city/highway) 25/30 (2.0L AWD); 28/32 (1.6L FWD)(
Manufacturing Plant Ulsan, Korea

See Also — Premium Compact: 2018 Hyundai Elantra Limited

Photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2018 SUVs, all-wheel drive, dual-clutch transmission, Hawaii, HONDA HR-V, Hyundai Kona, HYUNDAI TUCSON, MAZDA CX-3, turbo

IHS: Utility Vehicle Owners Drive Up Loyalty Rates

May 27, 2016 by admin 1 Comment

IHS Automotive analyzes 32 vehicle segments for auto trends loyalty.

2016 Honda HR-V

Subcompact CUV: Honda HR-V.

Keeping vehicle owners in the fold is a big deal for car manufacturers. With owner loyalty rates hovering just above 50 percent, that means there is nearly a 50-50 chance that consumers will move on to a competing brand the next time they buy new.

Losing customers can mean lost customers for life, especially if the replacement brand proves more appealing in the long run. GM, Ford, and Chrysler experienced this loss for much of the last century from the 1970s on as customers fled the Detroit 3 for products from Japan mostly.

Crossover Utility Vehicle Loyalty

But there is a bright spot manufacturers should take note of, one the IHS Automotive research firm recently noted. That bright spot has to do with sport utility vehicles — traditional SUVs and crossover utility vehicles (CUVs) alike. The IHS found loyalty rates among SUV and CUV owners in the United States has climbed to record levels.

Indeed, with a combined loyalty rate of 63 percent, CUV and SUV owners were much more likely to stay brand loyal than sedan owners, the latter coming in at a 53 percent loyalty rate for the same time. That timeframe covered the first quarter of 2016 (January-March). For all vehicle types, owner loyalty rates came in at 52.1 percent for the same period.

2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali.

Big SUV: 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali.

Utility vehicles are more popular than ever before. The IHS noted that the increased interest in the segment means manufacturers are responding in kind. As a result, showroom traffic is up as customers flock to the latest models.

In particular, manufacturers are rolling out more models, especially in the subcompact category. New arrivals in the past year include the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X, Mazda CX-3, and the Chevrolet Trax. These models joined the Nissan Juke, Subaru Crosstrek, and the Buick Encore already serving the segment. Models from Ford and Toyota are planned and will tip the balance further to all things utility vehicle.

Meeting Changing Consumer Demand

Manufacturers are also providing some overlap, to ensure that both off-road and leisure drivers are served. For example, Toyota remains the only manufacturer offering a midsize SUV (4Runner) and a midsize CUV (Highlander). Ford offers two midsize CUVs — the two-row Edge and the three-row Explorer. Other differences extend to convenience features, technologies, connectivity, and powertrain choices.

Of course, some of this may never have happened if gas prices remained high. Where fuel economy were once a big concern for car owners when gas prices were high, it is much less so today, thus consumers continue to shift away from cars to crossovers.

2015 Audi Q5

Luxury Crossover: Audi Q5

Vehicle Segment Trends

The IHS surveyed 32 vehicle segments, finding that the top three loyalty segments were for CUVs. Notably, utility vehicles comprised 35.2 percent of all new vehicle registrations in the first quarter of 2011, surging to 41.8 percent five years later. At the same time, new car registrations dipped from 48.7 percent in 2011 to 40.9 percent five years later.

“The high loyalty rates for SUVs and CUVs lend credence to the current shift from passenger cars to utility vehicles,” said Christopher Hopson, manager, North America light vehicle sales forecast at IHS Automotive. “We expect this shift to be sustained, even when fuel prices are expected to rise back above USD $3.00/gallon by 2020.”

Lighter and More Efficient

Another point of good news for consumers is that even as fuel prices eventually reach higher levels, utility vehicles are becoming more efficient. Manufacturers are employing various lightweighting strategies, including utilizing aluminum and certain grades of steel in an effort to shed weight. Smaller engines paired with more efficient transmissions are helping matters too.


See Also — Polk, Owner of Carfax, Acquired by IHS

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: AUTO TRENDS, crossover, HONDA HR-V, IHS AUTOMOTIVE, OWNER LOYALTY, sport utility vehicle, SUV

It’s a Buyers Market for Small Car Shoppers

April 12, 2016 by admin Leave a Comment

Some of the best deals are for small cars.

You might have your eye on that small SUV, but if you’re trading up from a compact car the incentives for small cars are very strong as we reach the heart of the spring selling season.

Consumers continue to shift their interest from cars to trucks and SUVs, and that means demand for the former has fallen, while interest in the latter is soaring. And if you know anything about the impact of supply and demand on prices, incentives follow the low-demand vehicles.

2016 Jeep Renegade.
2016 Jeep Renegade priced from $17,995.

Dodge Dart Discounted, Models Realigned

For example, sales of the 2016 Dodge Dart are down by about one-third year-over-year through the first three months of this year. Further, the entire segment is down by just over 5 percent and would be much worse off if Honda hadn’t updated the Civic. Notably, Civic sales are up 30.8 percent and have moved ahead of the previous category leader, the Toyota Corolla (down 7.1 percent).

To help move Dart sales, Dodge is doing a couple of things:

1. Incentives are strong, depending on region. Some models are marked down by up to $3,250. Low-rate financing is also available. Visit the Dodge website, enter your zip code, and check out the discounts in your area.

2. Three trim levels instead of five. Just past the halfway mark of the model year and the 2016 Dart now has two fewer trim levels. The three remaining trims were renamed and given engines to correspond to each level. Likewise, Dodge shuffled content, cut prices, and spread its package options across all three lines. All in all, the result should be a model better positioned to compete in a very tough segment.

2016 Honda HR-V.
2016 Honda HR-V priced from $19,125

Financing and Cash Back Incentives

Toyota incentives also vary by region. In my area (southeast USA), the current deal is 0 percent financing for up to 60 months or 0.9 percent financing for 72 months. But those incentives are better elsewhere, including in Los Angeles, where Toyota is offering $1,500 cash back or low-rate financing. Furthermore, attractive lease offers are in play as well.

Demand for small SUVs is up 6.3 percent year-to-date, a modest number. But the biggest gainers are found in the entry-level, subcompact SUV segment as those sales are up a whopping 78.7 percent. Of course, there are four new products in the mix and are driving sales. These are: the Fiat 500X, Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and the Mazda CX-3. The segment has expanded to accommodate the new models as customers shift their interest from small cars to SUVs.

Despite the strong sales, there are incentives on some of the smaller SUVs. At present, Jeep is offering 0 percent financing plus $1,000 cash back on 2016 Renegade models. The brand is also jockeying for market share, hence the discount.

Honda isn’t offering any special deals at the moment for the HR-V, but it is providing a lease deal on its hot-selling Civic. As for financing deals, Honda simply says “Please see your local Honda dealer for available offers.”

Incidentally, both segments offer comparable passenger and storage room, hence the comparison.

Dodge Dart.
2016 Dodge Dart priced from $16,995.

Sample Dodge Dart Savings

Using the Dodge build and price configurator, I spec’d out a mid-grade Aero model ($21,095). I then added the $1,250 6-speed automatic transmission and immediately that cost was fully offset by an “applied offer.” The net price came in at $22,090.

For a better deal, go to the next-level Dart GT and the discounts climb to $2,750 and the final price actually comes in lower at $20,340. You also get a larger and more powerful engine, while saving nearly $1,700 off the Aero price. With smart negotiating you can get the price down even lower, probably below $19,000.

Chevy v. Chevy Price Comparison

Of course, comparing models takes some theatrics, especially if the brand under consideration doesn’t offer both a subcompact SUV and a compact car such as Chevrolet and Honda do.

Chevrolet may offer the best example of the price differences between compact car (Cruze) and subcompact SUV (Trax). The 2016 Cruze is priced from $16,120 and the Trax starts out at $20,300.

With the Cruze, discounts of $1,000 and 1.9 percent financing apply to the LS Manual ($18,995) on up. Choose the Trax and you’ll get a $500 purchase bonus and you may qualify for 2.9 percent financing. Typically, you’ll pay about $4,000 more for a similarly-equipped Trax versus the Cruze. Add another $1,500 for all-wheel drive, available only with the Trax.

To sum up, similar-sized cars and SUVs offer significant price differences, especially after all incentives have been taken. If you really want an SUV, then by all means shop for one. But if you’re on the fence and money is a factor, bargaining down the price of a compact car can make a significant difference for your budget.


Sales figures courtesy of GoodCarBadCar.net.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: CASH BACK, CHEVROLET CRUZE, CHEVROLET TRAX, compact car, DODGE DART, FINANCING, Honda Civic, HONDA HR-V, INCENTIVES, JEEP RENEGADE, SUBCOMPACT SUV

Cute Ute: 2016 Honda HR-V

November 25, 2015 by admin 33 Comments

Honda has enjoyed much success with its first two utility vehicles. Notably, its compact CR-V leads in that segment, while its larger, three-row Pilot competes effectively in its own space. A third model, the subcompact HR-V, was introduced on May 15 and six months later it is tearing up an emerging segment.

Clearly, the automaker once best known for its Civic and Accord coupes, hatchbacks and sedans, has found its own place in the SUV market. A 2016 Honda HR-V EX-L AWD edition was a recent weekly test project, a model built on the Honda Fit’s platform.

Before we look at the model at hand, let’s take in some perspective first.

The HR-V name is not new — it was used on a wagon-like model from 1999 to 2006 and was sold in Japan. Variants of this vehicle were offered in New Zealand, Australia, and the Pacific Rim, but the first-generation HR-V was not offered in North America.

2016 Honda HR-V

Fast forward a decade and the mini SUV market in North America has changed. The current crop of small SUVs has been led by the Nissan Juke, but other models jumped in more recently, including the Chevrolet Trax, Jeep Renegade, Mazda CX-3, and the Fiat 500X. Other manufacturers will models following include Toyota with its C-HR, the Ford EcoSport and the Hyundai Kona. The Kia Soul might also be considered a competitor here.

As for the Honda HR-V, this model’s arrival comes as consumers continue to shift their purchase considerations toward utility vehicles. Brands such as Chevrolet, Nissan, Ford and Toyota are well represented in that department; the HR-V provides Honda with more solid footing in the marketplace.

The 2016 Honda HR-V is available in LX, EX and EX-L Navi editions. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available. The lowest cost model is an HR-V LX edition with a 6-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive. At $19,115 it sets a low price bar.

Choose the EX and you’ll pay from $21,165. Honda then prices the EX-L Navi from $24,590. And if you haven’t figured it out yet, Navi means a navigation system is standard.

2016 Honda HR-V

As delivered, an EX-L Navi AWD edition was my weekly driver and priced from $25,840 with a $26,720 sticker price. The $880 difference represents the destination and handling charge; there were no other add-ons tacked on. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is standard.

Despite sharing its platform with the Fit, the Honda HR-V is longer, wider and taller than the subcompact hatchback. In effect, Honda added 3.2 inches between the wheels and 9.1 inches overall. Also, the HR-V sits nearly five inches wider and is 3.2 inches taller than the Fit. The crossover has also put on the pounds, adding approximately 500 of them to top 3,100 pounds.

Beyond that, the HR-V is a model in its own right. This model flows from bumper to bumper, projecting a vehicle in constant motion.

2016 Honda HR-V

Up front, the signature Honda grille is present and is accented by large, wraparound lighting assemblies. Sculpting across the lower fascia and on the hood give this model a more polished look. Sporty pockets surrounding the lower grille opening house the fog lamps.

The HR-V’s profile is marked by a rising belt line and a sloping roofline that ends in a liftgate spoiler. Along the sides are character lines and more sculpting, including a pronounced swoosh design that begins near the front roof pillar and runs across the doors and ends at the rear pillar. Rocker panel skirting and aluminum wheels provide additional fetching highlights for this diminutive SUV.

To the rear, wraparound combination lamps, additional sculpting, and reflectors are present. This model comes with a singular exhaust tip.

Inside, the cabin is compact, but fairly roomy. Oddly, this is the first Honda model to pass through my test fleet — hundreds of Chevrolets, Toyotas, Hyundais, Fords, Nissans, and Kias joined a handful of Fiat Chrysler models, but no Hondas. Until now.

That meant familiarizing myself with the layout of vehicles I have ridden in, but seldom have driven. The interior is marked by hard touch materials across the dashboard with soft touch materials on the lower dash and surrounding the console. Brightwork accents and leather — on the seat and enveloping the steering wheel — give this particular edition a premium look and feel.

2016 Honda HR-V
2016 Honda HR-V

The front bucket seats are bolstered and supportive, providing an expected level of comfort for this class. What you won’t find are power-operated seats — manual adjustment is it and only the driver’s seat allows you to adjust the height level.

The rear bench seat is a 60-40 split fold design, what Honda calls its magic seat. The name seems appropriate as it allows you to adjust them to sit in a variety of positions, what Honda describes as tall mode, long mode, utility mode, and refresh mode.

With tall mode, you lift each section of the seat base, push the seat legs down and ensure they’re locked in place. Of special interest to sports-minded owners, tall mode makes it possible to place a bicycle within the cabin. Reverse the process by simply raising the seat legs and lowering the seat bases.

Choose long mode and you enjoy extra interior room with the rear seats folded. Simply remove the front passenger seat headrest and push the seat all the way back. By doing so you’ll provide enough room to carry a very long item, such as a floor lamp. Utility mode is achieved by lowering the rear headrests as far back as they will go before dropping the seat back into the rear passenger compartment. The HR-V’s low and flat floor provides excellent storage room. Lift the seat backs again and they can also tilt slightly back for added comfort.

One of the more intriguing seat positions is achieved through refresh mode. Here, you place the rear seats in tall mode before removing both front seat headrests, placing them to the side before lowering the seat back. Then, lower the rear seat back to connect to the front seat and you’ll have a pair of lounge chairs at the ready. Clearly, the seat gymnastics is a star point for this Honda, thus the magic connotation.

2016 Honda HR-V

The HR-V’s instrument panel is composed of a three-dial layout with the speedometer in the center, a tachometer to the left and digital information to the right. To amplify its “green” credentials — this model makes upwards of 35 mpg on the highway — the center dial rim shifts from a gray-colored light to green whenever you’re driving economically, which means nearly any time your foot isn’t on the accelerator or the cruise control isn’t raising RPMs in a bid to climb an incline.

The center console is a simple design with a 7-inch color display providing touchscreen control of the navigation system, your phone, audio system, and Link Connect — to connect your mobile device with Bluetooth. The system takes some getting used to, but I managed to plug in directions and have them returned to me accurately.

Below the color display is a panel for managing the climate control system — air conditioning, heat, front and rear defrosters, and the heated seats.

Between the front seats is the transmission stick, an electronic brake hold, two cup holders and a small arm rest with the tiniest storage area inside. Beyond the glove box, in-cabin storage seems limited, although there are bottle holders in each door. The center console is also a “floating” display and that means there is a storage area underneath with the attendant connectivity points. Side pockets on the console can hold your smartphones.

Behind the rear seats is a storage area with a cargo area light. Happily, underneath the floor is a full spare — no temporary spare or inflator to tide you over.

All Honda HR-V editions come equipped with air conditioning. A tilt and telescopic steering column, power accessories, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control are standard. Map lights, two 12-volt outlets, and a USB and auxiliary input port are included.

2016 Honda HR-V

Automatic climate control, Honda LaneWatch, push button start, and heated seats show up in the EX edition. Honda LaneWatch works by activating a camera on the right side of your vehicle and displays what it detects on the screen. Activation is automatic if you activate the right turn signal in preparation for switching lanes. There is also a switch on the stalk to give you a constant real-time display — as you might guess, lane changing accidents represents a high number of all car accidents. LaneWatch can help you avoid such a calamity.

All Honda HR-V models are powered by a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine making 141 horsepower. Although a manual transmission is available, most models come equipped with a CVT. Sorry folks, but automatic transmissions cannot deliver the efficiency of a CVT — expect to see more of them in the years moving forward.

Slip behind the wheel, adjust your seat and mirrors, put on your seatbelt and find the right position for the steering column and you’re ready to go. The engine is suited for this model, providing adequate oomph as you step on the accelerator. But the annoying CVT also becomes apparent as the sound emanating from underneath the hood gets progressively louder. Somewhere near 5,000 RPM it eases back even as you continue to accelerate to highway speeds.

If you’re not familiar with CVTs, these transmissions provide gearless “shifting” as power is sent to the wheels. Automakers love them because they’re typically at least 10 percent more efficient than gear-stepped transmissions. Auto enthusiasts detest them and avoid them like the plague. But then there is that overwhelming group of drivers who don’t know the difference or don’t care. So, turn up the audio system and keep driving.

To sum up, the HR-V is another winner for Honda, a model that outclasses the competition and makes the oldest model in the segment, the quirky Nissan Juke, seen really old. That makes for a difference, one that should help Honda maintain some space between it and Nissan for the fifth sales spot in the US market. At least for another year and maybe for as long as the crossover infatuation remains.


2016 Honda HR-V AWD

  • Sticker price from $25,840
  • Price as tested: $26,720
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine
  • 141 horsepower @ 6,500 RPM
  • 127 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,300 RPM
  • 3.19 inches bore by 3.44 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.6-to-1
  • Continuously variable automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 102.8 inches
  • Length: 169.1 inches
  • Width: 63.2 inches
  • Height: 74.1 inches
  • Passenger volume: 96.1 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 23.2/55.9 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: NR
  • EPA: 27 mpg city, 32 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 13.2 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 3,109 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Small overlap front & side: acceptable; moderate overlap front, roof strength, and head restraints & seats: good
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Celaya, Guanajuato Mexico

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2016 cars, all-wheel drive, crossover, CVT, front-wheel drive, HONDA HR-V, MAGIC SEATS, manual gearbox, NISSAN JUKE, SUV

Meticulous Product Changes Propel Honda

June 18, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

Help me Honda.

For much of the first two decades of Honda’s US marketing thrust, the brand relied on just three models and variants of the same for its business: Civic, Accord and Prelude. But by the late 1990s, Honda’s product line had doubled. Today, there are 10 lines of vehicles and more changes are in the offing. We’ll take a look at the most recent changes as well as what’s in store for the months and year ahead.

Honda HR-V

The all-new Honda HR-V is already a segment leader.

From Strength to Strength

No automaker is strong in every category, but if there is a weakness Honda finds a way to make the necessary improvements.

This year, Honda is releasing two all-new crossover utility vehicles. The Honda Pilot is its midsize SUV and has been completely redesigned for 2016. With room for up to eight, the Pilot now offers an available 9-speed automatic transmission paired with a direct-injected 3.5-liter, V-6 engine.

A new top-of-the-line Elite edition brings in LED headlights with automatic high beams and a blind spot indicator. All models provide a rearview camera, keyless entry and push-button start.

Honda’s strongest SUV is its CR-V, a compact model that is also the best seller in its class. Despite stiff competition from the Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, Chevrolet Equinox and the Nissan Rogue, this model continues to outpace its competitors.

The CR-V theme has now been applied to an even smaller model known as the HR-V. Based on the subcompact Fit platform, the HR-V retails for under $20,000 and offers LED brake lights, heated side mirrors, roof rails and keyless entry is standard equipment. Bluetooth audio streaming and a USB audio interface are standard. The interior is roomy, seats five and fuel economy comes in at 35 mpg on the highway.

With the HR-V, CR-V and an all-new Pilot in the mix, Honda’s SUV offerings are solid. Indeed, in its first month of sales alone, Honda sold 6,381 HR-Vs, more than double the sales of the Nissan Juke.

Honda Civic

The Civic was Honda’s first automobile model sold in the US.

Honda Ridgeline Pickup Truck

Clearly, the Honda Ridgeline pickup truck has not been a strong seller for this Japanese brand. It is sold in a market dominated by traditional, body-on-frame models such as the Toyota Tacoma, Chevrolet Colorado, Nissan Frontier, and the GMC Canyon. That being said, Honda believes that there is a market for this truck .

The original Ridgeline was sold for nine model years from 2006 to 2014. That’s a long time to keep a model without presenting a new one. Instead of maintaining the old model, Honda canceled it while developing plans for a new Ridgeline, a vehicle expected to debut in Fall 2016 for the 2017 model year.

We don’t know a lot about the upcoming model other than that it will maintain its unibody construction. Spy photos shown here and teaser photos shown here demonstrate that the new truck will assume a more traditional look. It will retail for about $30,000, a starting price higher than its competitors, but in line with the more upmarket trim levels Chevrolet, Toyota and the others offer.

Honda CR-V

Along with Civic and Accord, the CR-V is a top seller for Honda.

Alternative Fuel Vehicles

Honda has long operated in Toyota’s shadow, especially where sales numbers and alternative fuel vehicles are concerned. The dominant Prius has put the squeeze on certain Honda products, including the Insight, a hybrid model canceled last year.

But the entire electric vehicle market is weak in the face of lower gas prices that are far below the historic highs we have seen in recent years. That means demand for some models remains too low to sustain them, thus Honda has canceled its Civic Hybrid and Civic compressed natural gas (CNG) models after the current model year.

Honda’s retreat in this segment is not a surrender. Instead, the automaker will concentrate its resources on maintaining its Accord Hybrid, although the plug-in version will not return for 2016. Its CR-Z hybrid will also stay around.

Upcoming New Models

The cancellation of two Civic models comes as the 10th generation Civic rolls out this fall. That new model will include its first ever turbo engine. Further, Honda says that it will achieve “…EPA highway fuel economy a few ticks above 40 miles per gallon.” That fact may not be significant right now, but it does put Honda in a strong place once fuel prices begin to rise.

Yet another Honda model is slated for a major overhaul. About the same time that a new Ridgeline makes is debut, the next generation Honda Odyssey will also roll out. Not much is known about this model, although rumors that it will share its platform with the Honda Pilot have been mentioned.

Honda Odyssey

A new Honda Odyssey is on its way.

Honda: Looking Ahead

Honda has long stood on its quality credentials to attract and retain customers. The automaker may not have the most exciting products on the market, but the company is well represented wherever it operates. Only Toyota matches Honda in most quality and reliability surveys, critical considerations for consumers who trust these brands to deliver the industry’s most dependable products.


See Also — Tiny Crossover Segment Set to Explode

Photos courtesy of American Honda Motor Company, Ltd.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: CROSSOVERS, HONDA ACCORD, Honda Civic, Honda CR-V, HONDA CR-Z, HONDA HR-V, HONDA ODYSSEY, Honda Pilot, HONDA RIDGELINE, SUV

Slot This Tiny Ford EcoSport SUV

June 17, 2015 by admin 1 Comment

The Ford Escape is the smallest SUV sold in North America. In other markets, including India, the EcoSport serves the growing subcompact crossover utility vehicle segment. A Chennai manufacturing facility may soon produce a US-spec version in time for the 2017 model year.

Ford EcoSport
Is this Indian-built Ford EcoSport bound for the US?

“One Ford” represents a business strategy adopted by the Ford Motor Company in 2007. Part of that wide-ranging game plan was to accelerate the development of new products, including European-centric models for the US market. That blueprint has been successful as it has brought to America new models ranging from the subcompact Fiesta to the full-size Transit van.

There are still some models in the Ford portfolio that are not stateside. One model pickup truck enthusiasts are well aware of is the Ford Ranger. That truck is no longer sold in the US and the current generation Ranger now employs unibody construction for a car-like ride.

Sorry, fans — Ford continues to insist that the Ranger is for all markets except for North America. Ford wants you to buy an F-150 and nothing else.

Ford EcoSport

One model that Ford has in select markets that could very well make its North American debut in time for the 2017 model year is the Ford EcoSport. This crossover utility vehicle or SUV is tiny and would slot below the Ford Escape, a compact model. Auto Trends has learned that Ford is seriously considering importing the EcoSport from one of the four overseas factories where it is produced. Specifically, Ford India continues to crop up as the manufacturing source with its Chennai assembly plant producing same.

So, why would Ford be interested in adding the EcoSport to its product line? And what effect would the new model have on its other products?

First, the EcoSport is needed to enable Ford to compete with the emerging subcompact SUV segment largely founded by the Nissan in the Juke, but since joined by the Chevrolet Trax, Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade and the Fiat 500X. The Mazda CX-3 will arrive this fall and a next-generation Juke will follow in 2016. Based on the Juke’s past numbers, sales potential for the EcoSport is likely in the neighborhood of 10,000 units per month when production ramps up. That’s 120,000 models that Ford isn’t selling at the moment.

Second, top to bottom the Ford SUV lineup is solid, except for one model: the Ford Flex. The Flex has its following, but it’s a curious model crowded out by the five-passenger Edge and the seven-passenger Explorer. Its upscale twin, the Lincoln MKT is nearly invisible. Together, the two will barely account for 25,000 units sold this year. That’s too small of a number to invest in a new model that should hit the market by 2017. So, say goodbye to the Flex/MKT and hello to the EcoSport.

Ford EcoSport

Low-Priced Indian Product

Bringing a model such as the EcoSport to the US market is not a simple process as emissions and crashworthiness requirements must be met. Its an investment Ford will make, one that will add thousands of dollars to the sticker price. But that shouldn’t make the EcoSport uncompetitive as it retails for 675,000 Indian Rupee (INR) or just $10,532.58 in US currency. Most models in this segment start somewhere around $18,000 to $19,000.

Like other Ford products built abroad, the EcoSport has a variety of gasoline and diesel engine choices. But neither the 1.0-liter three-cylinder or a diesel seems reasonable for the US market, but the 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine does. For the US, the 5-speed manual transmission seems unlikely, but a 6-speed automatic would be spot on. Offer a 6-speed manual too and you may have some additional takers.

This five-passenger model offers standard front-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. It also has all the convenience features that Ford fans want, including fog lamps, roof rails, running boards, alloy wheels, Ford Sync telematics, and a rearview camera. Some things would need to change, including updating telematics to Sync 3, adding in the required safety features and probably benchmarking the Honda HR-V. Just as Honda is the sales leader in the compact SUV market with is CR-V, it intends to do likewise in the HR-V.

Ready for Export?

Producing the Ford EcoSport for the North American market would be a boon for the Chennai plant. It might also cast a positive light on the automaker’s efforts to make a dent in this emerging market. And Ford needs more than just a dent as it sells just 12-15,000 new vehicles per month, giving it just 3 percent of the Indian new car market.


See Also — Tiny Crossover Segment Set to Explode

Photos copyright Ford India.

Filed Under: Special Tagged With: CHENNAI, crossover, FORD ECOSPORT, Ford Escape, FORD FLEX, FORD INDIA, Ford Motor Company, HONDA HR-V, JEEP RENEGADE, SUV

Tiny Crossover Segment Poised to Explode

June 16, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

It wasn’t all that long ago when Nissan introduced its Juke crossover, what had some analysts scratching their heads in wonder. Sure, the styling itself was polarizing, but the segment the diminutive Nissan occupied was virtually nonexistent. Until now.

Nissan Juke Crossover SUV

Nissan got the subcompact SUV segment growing,
but now it needs an updating to compete against multiple newcomers.

One year after the Juke’s 2011 arrival, Chevrolet introduced the fleet-only Captiva. You could rent it, but you could not buy it. At least not new.

The following year, an upscale Buick Encore rolled out and was quickly embraced by consumers. As interest in the smallest of all crossovers grew, other manufacturers were paying close attention and began planning their own responses.

The subcompact SUV segment is now poised to explode as more manufacturers have jumped in and others are expected to follow. Indeed, just this spring we saw the introduction of the Jeep Renegade, Fiat 500X and the Honda HR-V. These three models will soon be joined by the Mazda CX-3 and the Chevrolet Trax, but the market expansion won’t end there.

New Crossover Models on the Way

Screen Shot 2015-06-15 at 1.02.00 PMIn particular, two additional manufacturers have models that may yet be rolled out. Yesterday, Auto Trends mentioned one such model as a possible entrant — the Ford EcoSport — a vehicle currently built in India and under consideration for US export by fall 2016. Yet another model, the Hyundai Creta, is also under consideration with the Korean manufacturer providing a sketch recently to show what it might look like.

Absent in all this is Toyota, but not for long. Quite frankly, the world’s largest automaker simply won’t sit on the sidelines for much longer. Except for sport coupes such as the Dodge Challenger, Toyota competes in every segment.

And with Nissan readying an all-new Juke set to arrive sometime in 2016, Toyota’s absence should come to an end sooner rather than later. As of this publication, Toyota is mum about its plans. With this in mind, keep an eye on the auto show circuit come fall — will it be a Toyota-derived product or will the automaker tap its Mazda partner to supply a new model?

Value in the Tiny Crossover Segment

Chevrolet TraxThere is a good reason why the subcompact crossover SUV market is booming. These vehicles are built on car platforms that normally retail for $15,000 on up. At prices that begin just below $20,000 and push up to $25,000, manufacturers are able to squeeze more profits from them. And as consumers continue to switch from cars to SUVs, the more expensive crossovers simply are replacing lower profit volume models lost elsewhere.

Likely, the segment is no flash in the pan either. May 2015 sales of the aged Nissan Juke came in at 2,625 units, down 31 percent for the month. However, sales of the new models got off to a strong start. For instance, 6,381 units of the Honda HR-V were delivered in its first month of availability. Furthermore, Jeep sold 4,416 Renegades and Chevrolet sold 5,707 of its Trax models according to Good Car Bad Car.

Honda seems poised to control the segment as it currently does with its compact CR-V. The new HR-V is priced from $19,115 and puts a big emphasis on versatility and technology. All models come with LED brake lights, heated side mirrors, roof rails and keyless entry.

A long list of comfort and convenience features are included, such as: power accessories, cruise control, a tilt and telescopic steering column, map lights, an LED pocket light, two 12-volt, and a cargo area light. All HR-V models come with Bluetooth and a USB audio interface. Both the EX and EX-L editions add a 180-watt, 6-speaker audio system with Pandora. the EX-L NAVI edition brings in navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio and HD radio.

Equipped, Not Stripped

honda-hr-vCompeting models are also generous with amenities, ensuring that all such vehicles come equipped, not stripped. Moreover, interior room is large enough to hold five and storage capacity is upwards of 60 cubic feet with the rear seat folded. These models are likely to be perceived as relative bargains and in a market where the average cost of a new car is approaching $33,000, the segment has its share of bargains.

One important factor that isn’t getting much attention in these days of lower fuel prices is gas mileage. For instance, the Mazda CX-3 with two-wheel drive is EPA-rated at 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. That number compares favorably with the small cars that consumers have long favored and could very well ensure this segment’s success once gas prices return to the previous highs experienced just a few years ago.


See Also — Compact Performance: 2017 Nissan Sentra NISMO

Chevrolet Trax, Honda HR-V and Hyundai Creta crossover photos and sketch copyright the respective manufacturer.

Filed Under: Commentary Tagged With: BUICK ENCORE, CHEVROLET TRAX, crossover, FIAT 500X, FORD ECOSPORT, HONDA HR-V, JEEP RENEGADE, MAZDA CX-3, NISSAN JUKE, SUV, Toyota

About the 2015 Chevrolet Trax

March 9, 2015 by admin 3 Comments

The subcompact sport utility vehicle segment is expanding rapidly as new products from Honda, Fiat, Jeep and Mazda enter the fray. Joining the current Buick Encore and Nissan Juke is another small SUV, the Chevrolet Trax, a five-passenger model that gives the bow-tie brand its fifth utility vehicle.

The 2015 Chevrolet Trax is just now entering showrooms, the third crossover and fifth overall utility vehicle for GM’s headmost brand. The Trax arrives just as the subcompact SUV segment receives an infusion of new products, including the Honda HR-V and the Fiat 500X.

Pricing Essentials and Strategy

The Chevrolet Trax is based on the Buick Encore, a premium model with the price and content to go with it. To effectively compete in a segment where a base price of $20,000 will be common, GM established a $20,120 base price for the Trax or $20,995 once the delivery charge is included.

This front-wheel-drive model is also available in all-wheel drive and is sold in LS, LT and LTZ trim levels. All-wheel drive adds $1,500 to the price. Chevrolet says that the Trax has the utility of an SUV and the agility of a compact car. Likely, that statement is true because it aligns with my impressions of the similar Buick Encore. Stay tuned for a hands-on review once one passes through my press fleet rotation.

For a small vehicle, there is a lot to discuss beyond its standard 1.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Indeed, its standard Chevrolet MyLine infotainment system, 7-inch diagonal screen, Wi-Fi hotspot, standard rear view camera, and standard 10 airbags should pique the interest of the intrepid shopper.

2015 Chevrolet Trax

Room for Five; Compartments Galore

Technically, the Chevrolet Trax seats five, but is best suited for four. Its 60-40 spilt, flat-folding rear seat and fold-flat front passenger seat to enable owners to maximize storage space. Chevrolet is quick to note that the Trax’ storage space eclipses the Nissan Juke and is in line with competitors, such as the Jeep Renegade and Kia’s Soul. By extension, you can associate the Volkswagen Golf SportWagen with this segment, a wagon-like model with its own utility vehicle inclinations.

SUVs typically have multiple storage compartments, including a sundry of nooks, crannies and crevices. The Chevrolet Trax does not disappoint in this department as it has 15 of them, including one to the left of the steering wheel and a pair encompassing the center stack. Furthermore, double slots in all four doors run up that tally nicely.

One technological feature that is sure to please beyond the Wi-Fi hotspot is Siri Eyes. Siri Eyes Free works with compatible iPhones and like devices to augment connectivity, through voice control. Specifically, drivers can keep their phones stored and their hands on the wheel, effectively eliminating a distraction point. To point out, Chevrolet will be the only subcompact SUV to offer this feature.

A Profusion of Safety Components

Speaking of safety, the Chevrolet Trax comes with driver and front passenger knee airbags as well as the segment’s only rear-seat-mounted thorax airbags. Furthermore, the expected and mandated safety features common to all vehicles — such as anti-lock brakes, stability control, electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist — are present. This model also comes with cornering brake control; rear park assist is standard on the LTZ edition and is available with the LT.

Will buyers make the trek to the Chevy Trax? That’s no slam dunk considering the competition that is also reaching the segment now and in the coming months. At the same time, the Trax will have some in-house competition from the Buick Encore while some buyers may simply prefer the capaciousness of the Equinox, the previous of the smallest utility vehicles in the Chevrolet portfolio.


See Also — SUV Eruption: 2018 Hyundai Kona

Photos courtesy of the General Motors Company.

Filed Under: New Models Tagged With: 2015 MODELS, all-wheel drive, AWD, BUICK ENCORE, CHEVROLET TRAX, GM, HONDA HR-V, Siri Eyes Free, SUBCOMPACT SUV, TURBOCHARGED ENGINE

Honda Beats Nissan With a CR-V Stick

December 16, 2014 by admin 2 Comments

Battling it out for US sales positioning.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance makes for one of the largest car manufacturers in the world, but when it comes to selling new cars in the US, Honda continues to trump Nissan. No Renault models are sold stateside, leaving Japan’s No. 2 manufacturer to battle that country’s third-largest manufacturer for US sales positioning.

Nissan easily outsells Honda globally, but in two markets — Thailand and the United States — Honda is still ahead. Though beating Honda in Thailand may be important, shedding its mostly four-decade deficit to Honda in the US seems like a never-ending quest.

2015 Honda CR-V.
2015 Honda CR-V.

Refreshed Honda CR-V

Unfortunately for Nissan, its attempt to move past Honda and to stand behind Toyota will have to wait another year. The Accord and Civic certainly are having something to do with that, but Honda’s CR-V crossover utility vehicle is what continues to keep Honda positioned just ahead of Nissan.

The Honda CR-V may not be the most spectacular compact crossover utility vehicle, but it is the segment leader, easily outselling the Toyota RAV4, Ford’s Escape and the Nissan Rogue. The CR-V is everything and more than what 300,000 annual buyers want — a highly dependable, five-passenger front- or all-wheel drive model with good fuel economy, competitive utility and strong resale values.

Earlier this year, it appeared that Nissan would finally overtake Honda on the strength of its excellent first quarter sales. However, an updated CR-V arrived later in the year and with it came a strong boost in Honda sales.

The 2015 edition represents a mid product cycle refresh, one that updates the front and rear fascia, brings in a revised engine with 11 percent more torque, and adds several new interior and safety features.

Of the CR-V, Honda called it the “…most significant mid-model cycle refresh in its history.” Essentially, it gave the CR-V a much needed tweaking, buying Honda some time as it readies a new model.

2015 Nissan Rogue
2015 Nissan Rogue.

Surging November Sales

The refresh has stoked interest in Honda’s “cute ute” with November sales surging by 37.7 compared with Nov. 2013. Honda sold 32,378 CR-Vs and has already sold 302,650 units through the first 11 months of the year for a 10 percent year-to-date gain over last year.

The comparable Nissan Rogue is seeing even greater sales increases than the Honda CR-V, but at 184,320 units sold through November 2014, it can’t make up the overall brand sales difference alone.

Through November, Honda has sold 1,253,557 units to Nissan’s 1,164,254. Honda not only reversed its 36,000-unit first quarter deficit, but it is now ahead of its Japanese rival by more than 89,000 units during this final sales month of the year.

Temporary Victory, Elusive Rebound

Nissan’s second place to Honda market position hasn’t always been an exercise in futility. In 1995, Nissan outsold Honda for the year, but quickly lost its footing the following year.

This year, Nissan’s sales are up by 12 percent through Nov. to Honda’s 1 percent increase, but it will need both new product and perhaps a Honda slump to enable it to move up once again. That battle is also going on in the premium segment where Honda’s Acura continues to outsell Nissan’s Infiniti division.

2016 Honda HR-V.
This upcoming 2016 HR-V may help Honda keep its distance from Nissan.

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Photos courtesy of Honda North America and Nissan North America.

Filed Under: Automotive News Tagged With: ACURA, crossover, Honda CR-V, HONDA HR-V, INFINITI, Nissan Rogue, RENAULT-NISSAN ALLIANCE, US SALES

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