Honda FR-V Hatchback (2004-2009) running costs and reliability

Looking for a different model? (change model)

Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019

Miles per pound (mpp)

Reliable fuel consumption data for comparison purposes is not available for this model.

What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

A more stringent standard for fuel economy (WLTP) was introduced from September 2017, and this model was not required to undergo that test. Its fuel economy measured under the previous test system was 33 - 44 mpg. However these figures are less likely to be achievable in real world driving and so should never be compared to another car's mpg which was measured under the newer, more realistic WLTP system.

View mpg & specs for any version

In terms of list price, the FR-V starts higher than alternative people carriers, but it is exceptionally well built and generously equipped too. Insurance is reasonable with ratings either group 10 or 11, depending on what trim you go for while Honda servicing, although not always the cheapest around, is usually decent value for money and good quality.

The FR-V performs quite well on the eco front, but it improved significantly with the introduction of the 1.8-litre petrol engine, bringing down average CO2 emissions. However, most customers choose the excellent diesel, with CO2 emissions of 167g/km and economy of 45mpg – impressive for a 140bhp people carrier.

Honda is a household name when it comes to reliability. The FR-V is very well made, has precise panel gaps and uses high-grade materials throughout. There’s no reason to believe that any of the engines will give anything other than first-class reliability. That includes the diesel, which was added to the Honda range in 2004.