Should you buy one?

The HR-V is a worthy alternative to the usual set of crossovers you see on the roads. Its compact exterior dimensions mean it’s better for running around town, but its generous interior space, coupled with the more muscular turbocharged engines allow it to perform well on long distances, too.

It’s not pretentious and remains invisible to everyone else. Thankfully, even the Sport model avoids being dressed in an overcompensating bodykit, meaning you have a practical family car without the notion of trying too hard.

The price is on the high side and it’s not the most exciting car to drive, but it looks different and is interesting enough both inside and out to stand out from the busy crowd of family crossovers, including the Nissan Juke and Renault Kadjar. The HR-V’s rivals may be newer and the absence of the latest tech inside the cabin shows up the Honda in some places – but this doesn’t deter from its practicality and everyday usability.

It’s worth doing the sums to decide whether you need to pay extra for the diesel, while most buyers will be able to live without the luxuries that EX trim offers over SE trim as well.

Whichever specification of Honda HR-V you choose you’ll be impressed by the level of standard equipment packed into the car.

It’s best sticking with the slick manual gearbox if you can, but if you are a buyer looking for the latest must-have tech, you’ll have to look elsewhere. While some will prefer the simplicity of the HR-V’s cabin, others will immediately wish for a slicker infotainment screen and driver’s instrumentation system.

Even the entry-level S grade has alloy wheels, DAB radio, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control, parking sensors and cruise control.

Choose an SE trim or higher and the HR-V also comes with a wealth of active safety systems too, such as an emergency city braking system, lane departure warning, traffic sign recognition and automatic main beam for the headlights