Honda FR-V (04-09) - Review

Review by Dan Harrison on
Last Updated: 12 January 2009
Clever packaging - perhaps inspired by the Fiat Multipla - has given Honda a six-seat people carrier that can also carry luggage for all its occupants, making it more practical than similar sized people carriers that have three rows of seats but a tiny boot. The FR-V seats three abreast in two rows, but the middle rear seat also slides back to ensure sufficient leg room. It means six people plus luggage can be transported in a vehicle taking up no more road space than a typical family hatchback. However, the middle seat in the front isn't really practical, especially not for regular use. In 2007 the model got the excellent i-CTDi diesel engine it desperately needed while the looks were also subtly tweaked with new headlights and rear light clusters.
3.5 out of 5

Other Honda reviews

3.5 out of 5

Running costs

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.

* based on most recent data

Estimated fuel cost for 10,000 miles per year

Unleaded

£1,659 - £1,860 *

Diesel

£1,457 - £1,457 *

The estimated fuel cost figure is a guide to how much this model will cost to fuel each year, so you can compare between cars. It's calculated by using the model's average mpg (calculated from both town centre and motorway driving) and the average fuel price. It's based on the following cost-per-litre: petrol 135p and diesel 141p. Prices are updated daily.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

Every 12,500 miles.

Warranty

Three years/90,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£195.00 - £250.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

3 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
  • B
  • C
  • D
  • E
  • F
  • G
  • H
    167
  • I
  • J
    199
  • K
  • L
  • M

CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

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.

Find the exact engine and CO2