Honda HR-V 2019

Looking for a ride that’s sporty, efficient, and packed with features? The Honda HR-V has you covered. With five variants, including hybrid options, you can choose what fits you best. Plus, the Modulo Honda Custom Performance upgrade lets you personalize your drive. Check out our review for details on performance, top speed, Honda Connect, security features, pricing, and more.

Introduction

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Honda HR-V stands out as a top choice for anyone looking for a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and modern features. Whether you’re navigating busy city streets or cruising down the highway, this SUV offers a smooth and reliable driving experience. And with a host of smart tech and safety features, the HR-V SE really knows how to make your daily drive both easy and enjoyable.

HR-V SE

Engine and Performance

Under the hood of the HR-V SE, you’ll find a 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine that’s all about balancing efficiency with just the right amount of power. Thanks to Honda’s clever i-VTEC technology, the engine delivers a solid 132 horsepower at 6,600 rpm, and with 156Nm of torque at 4,600 rpm, it makes sure you’re never left wanting when you need to get up to speed.

This isn’t a sports car, but it’s more than capable for daily commutes and weekend trips. And since it’s paired with Honda’s electronic fuel injection (PGM-FI) system, you get that smooth, reliable fuel delivery that keeps fuel consumption low. So you can get more miles out of every tank and still enjoy a responsive driving experience.

Dual-Clutch Transmission

One of the things I personally appreciate about the HR-V SE is its 7-speed Dual-Clutch Transmission (7DCT). This tech feels intuitive, shifting smoothly without that jerkiness you sometimes get in lower-end systems. It gives the car a more fluid feel, whether you’re accelerating or coasting on the freeway. Plus, with its 2WD system, it makes handling effortless, especially when you’re zipping through tight city corners or cruising along wide-open roads.

Fuel Efficiency

With its 50-liter fuel tank, the HR-V SE lets you cover more ground before you need to fuel up again. Honda knows how to make a car that stretches your fuel budget—its efficient engine and low-maintenance design work together to make it an ideal choice for anyone who does a lot of city driving or long road trips.

The Econ Mode is a nifty feature for anyone who really wants to make the most of their fuel. Just press the button, and the car adjusts its settings to optimize fuel efficiency without compromising too much on performance. It’s a simple feature, but when you’re trying to squeeze the most miles out of every gallon, it really makes a difference.

Tech and Comfort

Easy Connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Inside the HR-V SE, you’ll find a clean, intuitive cabin with a 7-inch touchscreen display that’s easy to navigate. And if you’re like me and rely heavily on your smartphone for navigation and music, you’ll appreciate that this SUV comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto right out of the box. It’s the kind of tech that makes life simpler—just plug in your phone, and you’ve got access to your favorite apps, maps, and playlists all in one place.

The 4-speaker sound system is solid for a compact SUV, and if you’re more into podcasts or audio books than blasting music, it does the job just fine. I’ve spent quite a bit of time listening to podcasts during my commutes, and the audio quality is more than decent for everyday driving.

Comfortable and Convenient Features

With auto air conditioning, the cabin stays comfortable no matter the weather outside. Plus, the tilt and telescopic steering wheel allows you to easily find a comfortable driving position, making longer trips a bit more relaxing. It’s the little things that count, right?

Design and Exterior

A Sporty Look with Practical Features

The HR-V SE has a sporty, modern look with 17-inch alloy wheels that add to its stylish exterior. Whether you’re parked in the city or cruising down the highway, the wheels give it a nice balance between performance and style. And with the 215/55R17 tires, the ride feels stable and controlled, even when you’re handling sharp corners.

As for color choices, I love how the HR-V SE comes in sleek shades like Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, and Modern Steel Metallic. Each option gives the car a refined look, and it’s clear that Honda designed the HR-V SE to be both practical and visually appealing.

Personalize It with Modulo Honda Accessories

For those who want a more customized look, you can opt for the Modulo Honda Custom Performance package. This upgrade includes a variety of stylish Honda Genuine Accessories, such as a body kit and spoiler. It’s a great way to make your HR-V SE feel more “you.”

Safety Features

While this particular model doesn’t come with the full Honda Sensing suite (like Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist), the HR-V SE is still packed with essential safety features. You get dual front airbags, a rearview camera to help with parking, and ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution to keep things under control in an emergency.

The Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Traction Control are also great additions that help keep you safe when road conditions aren’t perfect. And with features like auto door lock and a security alarm system, it’s clear that Honda takes your safety seriously.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing, the HR-V SE (Price: Starting from RM105,363.85) offers excellent value for anyone in the market for a compact SUV. It’s not the cheapest in its class, but it’s also not over-priced considering all the tech and safety features you’re getting. Whether you’re commuting or taking a weekend getaway, the HR-V SE gives you the tools you need to enjoy the journey—at a price that’s well within reach for most buyers.

HR-V Hybrid

The Honda HR-V Hybrid (Price: Starting from RM113,954.82) is all about smart efficiency and smooth drives. With its 1.8-liter hybrid engine, you’ll enjoy a balance of power and excellent fuel economy—30 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. Inside, it’s got the tech you need, like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Honda Sensing safety features. Whether you’re running errands or heading out for a weekend trip, the HR-V Hybrid makes every ride comfortable and eco-friendly.

Safety

Driver-Assistance

One of the things that really stands out about the HR-V Hybrid is how it prioritizes safety. With features like Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), this SUV has your back if you ever start to drift out of your lane. It’s like having a co-pilot that helps you stay on track, especially during longer drives or when you’re feeling a bit tired.

Also, Automated Emergency Braking (AEB) is a great feature that gives you an added layer of protection by helping prevent collisions, or at least reducing their severity. Whether you’re in a busy parking lot or driving through heavy traffic, you can rely on the HR-V’s driver-assist technology to provide peace of mind.

Other safety features, like Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA), add an extra level of security when driving in challenging conditions, like on steep hills or slippery roads.

Rearview Camera & Parking Sensors for Extra Help

Maneuvering through tight spots becomes much easier with the multi-angle rearview camera, which offers different perspectives to help you park and reverse with confidence. Plus, the added parking sensors ensure you won’t have to worry about bumping into anything when you’re in a tricky spot.

HR-V RS

Design

Exterior Styling

The HR-V RS (Price: Starting from RM118,581.81) doesn’t just perform well; it looks great too. The design has a sporty edge, with LED headlights, LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), and sleek 18-inch alloy wheels. Whether it’s parked on the street or driving down the highway, the HR-V RS catches the eye.

We especially like the Passion Red Pearl and Platinum White Pearl paint options—both give the car a dynamic, premium feel. And if you want to add a personal touch, you can even upgrade to the Modulo Honda Custom Performance body kit. It’s a nice way to make your HR-V RS truly unique.

• Headlights: LED
• Wheels: Alloy 18″
• Tyres: 225/50R18

Interior

Step inside the HR-V RS, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels both refined and practical. The seats are covered in combination leather, which gives the interior a premium feel. The leather-wrapped steering wheel is a nice touch, providing a comfortable grip while you drive.

The tech inside is another highlight. The 7-inch touchscreen is easy to navigate, and the HondaLink infotainment system works seamlessly with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto. Whether you’re using navigation, making calls, or listening to music, everything is right at your fingertips.

• Seat Materials: Combination Leather
• Infotainment System: 7″ Display Audio with Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto
• Sound System: 4-Speaker
• Air Conditioner: Auto Air Conditioning

Safety

Safety is always a priority, and the HR-V RS has you covered. It’s earned a 5-star safety rating from NHTSA, which speaks volumes about its solid design. On top of that, the vehicle comes loaded with advanced safety features that make driving feel more secure.

Here’s what we love:

• Honda Lane Watch Camera (LWC): This camera provides a live feed of your blind spot when turning right, making lane changes much safer.
• Multi-Angle Rearview Camera: Gives you a clear view of what’s behind you—ideal for parking or reversing.
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Together, they help you maintain control during slippery conditions or emergency braking.

Plus, the HR-V RS comes with dual front airbags, side curtain airbags, and ISOFIX for child seats. We also found that features like Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) provide peace of mind in everyday driving situations.

• Airbags: Dual Front SRS, Side Airbags, Side Curtain Airbags
• Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA): Equipped
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Equipped
• Hill Start Assist (HSA): Equipped

HR-V 1.8V

Interior

A Cabin That Works for You

One of the things we really love about the HR-V 1.8V is how comfortable it feels inside. The cabin is spacious enough to fit everything from groceries to gear, and it has a variety of clever storage options. We’ve got cupholders, bins, and even spots in the doors to stash away essentials. For those of us who always seem to have a lot of stuff—sunglasses, chargers, snacks—it’s a nice touch to have compartments everywhere.

The seats in the HR-V 1.8V are available in both cloth and combination leather. We opted for the leather because it feels a bit more premium, and it’s a great balance between comfort and durability. Whether we’re driving for an hour or a whole day, the seats hold up well and make the ride feel smooth.

• Seat Materials: Leather (Combination Leather)
• Storage: Clever compartments throughout
• Air Conditioning: Dual-zone automatic climate control

Infotainment You’ll Actually Use

Now, onto the tech. The 8-inch touchscreen is a standout feature. It’s simple to use, and honestly, it feels very intuitive. Once we connect our phones via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, we’re good to go—our favorite apps, maps, and music are right at our fingertips. It’s so easy to set up that even our tech-shy friends can get it up and running in seconds.

One of the features we didn’t expect to use as much is the Honda LaneWatch Camera (LWC). Whenever we turn on the right blinker, the camera gives us a real-time view of our blind spot. It’s incredibly useful in heavy traffic or when changing lanes on the highway. It’s a small feature, but it adds a lot of safety and convenience to the driving experience.

• Infotainment: 8″ Display Audio
• Connectivity: Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto
• Sound System: 4-Speaker Audio

Exterior

The HR-V 1.8V isn’t just practical on the inside. It’s got a sporty, sleek exterior with bold LED headlights and 17-inch alloy wheels that give it a modern and confident stance. The Passion Red Pearl paint job is definitely a head-turner, but if we prefer something a little more subtle, the Platinum White Pearl is just as stylish.

Whether we’re parked on the street or heading to the mountains for a weekend trip, the HR-V 1.8V always looks good doing it. Plus, the Modulo Honda Custom Performance kit is available for those who want a more personalized look, allowing us to customize everything from the body kit to the wheels.

• Wheels: 17″ Alloy
• Headlights: LED
• Paint Colors: Passion Red Pearl, Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic

HR-V 1.8E

Spacious and Thoughtful Interior

As soon as we opened the door and stepped inside, we were impressed by how spacious the HR-V 1.8E feels. With its half-leather seats, it’s a perfect balance between luxury and comfort. The seats are not only stylish but also heated (with three settings for those chilly mornings). Whether it’s just the driver or a full carload, everyone has plenty of room to stretch out. Plus, the auto air conditioning ensures the cabin stays comfortable, no matter the season.

One feature we particularly love is the 7-inch display audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It’s so easy to sync our phones, navigate with Google Maps, or enjoy a playlist on the road. The 4-speaker sound system delivers crisp, clear audio that’s perfect for those long drives.

• Seat Materials: Half-Leather (Fabric & Leather)
• Heated Seats: Front (3 settings)
• Infotainment System: 7″ Display Audio with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
• Air Conditioning: Auto Air Cond

Practical Features for Everyday Life

Living with the HR-V 1.8E is incredibly easy. We’ve found that it’s got just the right mix of practical features. There are plenty of storage compartments to stash your essentials, from smartphones to snacks. And with the multi-angle rearview camera, parking and reversing are a breeze. The camera gives us a clear, comprehensive view of our surroundings, so we feel confident every time we back out of a parking space.

• Storage: Plenty of Compartments for Easy Organization
• Rearview Camera: Multi-Angle for Safer Parking

Conclusion

If you’re after a compact SUV that checks all the boxes—fuel-efficient, tech-savvy, comfortable, and packed with essential safety features—then the Honda HR-V is definitely worth considering. It’s easy to see why so many people love it for everyday use: it’s versatile, reliable, and offers great value for money.

Whether you’re in the city or out on the open road, the HR-V SE gives you the tools you need to make every drive enjoyable. With its blend of practicality, style, and performance, this is an SUV that’s built to handle whatever life throws your way.

Did you know?

You can add-on other package on Honda HR-V SE such as Tint Film Package (Honda Authorized Window Tint Film) using Horizon Safety TSER 50%, Horizon Safety+ TSER 58%, Ray Barrier 4+ TSER 60%, Ray Barrier 6+ TSER 60%, Horizon Security Premium+ TSER 60%, Ray Barrier 4 Black Pearl TSER 62% or Ray Barrier 6 Black Pearl TSER 62%. Honda recommended Digital Video Recorder DVR also available for both front and rear view. Check with your Honda’s Sales Representative now for more info!

Did you know?

Honda HR-V SE comes with a 5-year warranty unlimited mileage, 5-times free labor services within 100,000km for Hybrid variant or 5 years, free labor service up to 6 times for petrol variants,  an EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) and 5-Star ASEAN NCAP Safety. For Hybrid variant, 8-years warranty with unlimited mileage for Hybrid battery (Lithium-ion) Ask Honda’s sales representative for more info.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Explore our FAQ section to find answers to the most frequently asked questions about Honda HR-V SE. From product details to support inquiries, we cover everything you need to know. Get the information you need quickly and easily!

Why should you buy the Honda HR-V SE?

The Honda HR-V SE is a great choice for those looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable SUV. It has a responsive and powerful 1.8L engine with i-VTEC technology that provides smooth and efficient power while also helping lower emissions. It also has a spacious and comfortable interior, along with a sporty look and a great fuel economy. The Honda HR-V SE is packed with technology options too, like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Honda LaneWatch, and Honda Sensing. Finally, its dynamic styling helps make it stand out in a crowded SUV market.

Is the Honda HR-V SE a good car?

Yes, the Honda HR-V SE is a good car. It is reliable and fuel-efficient and is well-equipped with features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Additionally, the HR-V offers strong safety and driver aid features, making it a great option for many drivers.

*Source: Honda official website