UK Used Review; Honda FR-V

Here's a write up on a vehicle that we won't see here in North America anytime too soon, and it's a pity because it sure looks good.
Honda FR-V
Used Car

The Honda FR-V is a masterpiece of clever packaging: shorter than a BMW 3-series and narrower than a Ford C-Max, it can accommodate six, and has a boot about 90 litres larger than that of a Volkswagen Golf.

It is the perfect car for families who want the space and practicality of an MPV without the bulk and fuel costs of such vehicles.

The FR-V was launched in November 2004 and was an instant hit. Under the bonnet, Honda initially offered just two petrol engines: a 1.7 litre and a 2 litre producing 125bhp and 150bhp respectively. Expect to pay some £850 more for a 2 litre than you would for an equivalent 1.7 litre.

In September 2005, the long-awaited 2.2 litre diesel engine appeared. Producing 140bhp and just 167g/km of CO2, at the time it was among the cleanest and most refined diesels money could buy. With more than 250 lb ft of torque available from just 2000rpm, it is also perfectly suited to propelling a heavily laden vehicle with ease.

However, the diesel’s desirability is also reflected in second-hand prices; so expect to pay £10,000-plus for a three-year-old example — that’s £2,500 more than for a similarly equipped 1.7 litre petrol model.

The unique character of the FR-V becomes apparent only when you slip behind its wheel. Three individual front seats are mirrored behind, and Honda has moved the gearstick and handbrake from the floor to the dash to liberate space. While none of the seats can be removed, the rear ones stow into the boot floor — increasing boot space to more than 1,000 litres — and the front middle seat has a huge amount of fore and aft adjustment.

In the world of people carriers, the FR-V is something of an oddball, but none the worse for it. Combining a decent drive with plenty of space, and with residual values that look strong, it could be a sound investment for cash-conscious families.

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/driving/used_car_reviews/article5433596.ece

For more informataion here's a blog put on by 'Acer Vicius' on the FR-V (thanks for following);
http://hondafrv.blogspot.com/