Driving the updated small Honda HR-V SUV which now comes in three models, the entry pure petrol plus two hybrids – I tested the top spec HR-V hybrid E-HEV L at $42,990 drive-away which combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with two electric motors producing combined outputs of 96kW and 253 Nm of torque – smooth, quiet and refined, the hybrid system generally prioritising electric power, the petrol engine kicking in to act as a generator to charge the battery, the electric motor in turn drawing on that charge to power the front wheels. The drive is very linear and polished, as I said quiet, and the only time the petrol engine is noticeable is under a heavy throttle where the continuously variable transmission lets the petrol engine surge a little and make its presence felt. On 91 grade petrol I managed 4.9L/100km making the HR-V a very frugal driver with an impressive range. The drive experience with great seats, nimble steering and a nicely balanced ride/handling combination gives this compact Honda HR-V hybrid SUV a very polished feel. It’s not the most affordable compact SUV in its class but overall, a very nice allrounder with servicing capped for each of the first five years at a sharp $199. I’m David Berthon.

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