Few models in Malaysia hit showrooms with such precision (of being what the market wanted) and fanfare as the Honda HR-V. 

First launched in 2015, the second-generation (RU) Honda HR-V ticked almost every conceivable box from a buyer's perspective - svelte looks, a well-packaged and cavernous interior, proven powertrains and plenty of features for the money. 

Also note, B-Segment SUVs were somewhat left field until the Honda HR-V came along. The Mitsubishi ASX enjoyed passable success, whilst Toyota didn't have a suitable competitor until the 2021 Corolla Cross (although, this writer sheds a tear for the short-lived, but loved C-HR).

Some 7 years on, the Honda HR-V still represents amazing value, although now attainable on the used market for the price of a new Perodua Ativa, this is what you should know first.

The Honda HR-V range in Malaysia

Upon its Malaysian launch in 2015, the B-segment SUV Honda HR-V came in three flavours, S, E and V.

Primarily, moving up the variant list got buyers additional safety and convenience features (such as keyless start: E variant and up), with the V variant adding 6 airbags, cruise control and a reverse camera. 

Also read: New vs used: Buy a used Honda CR-V or brand-new 2022 Proton X70?

A single powertrain was used across the three variants, which was a 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine (142 PS, 172 Nm) paired with a CVT-type transmission. 

The Honda HR-V then got a facelift in 2019, featuring sharper looks and running improvements. Honda Malaysia then streamlined the HR-V line-up into four variants: E, Sport Hybrid i-DCD, V and RS (the S variant was dropped).

The 1.8-litre i-VTEC engine and CVT combo were retained for the E, V and RS variants, while the hybrid variant was equipped with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with an integrated electric motor that delivered 152 PS and 190 Nm combined.

The variant to buy and current market prices

Used units of the Honda HR-V range between RM 60k for early 2015 units and rise to just under RM 78k for the newer 2018 pre-facelift units, depending on age and variant.

Facelifted, 2019 and up units typically start at approximately RM 75k and go up to RM 110k for high-spec RS units that are less than 2 years old.

Also read: Used Honda Jazz (GK) - from RM 40k, last of its line hatchback, how much to maintain and repair?

The HR-V 1.5 Hybrid variants still hold strong at approximately RM 90k, thus, choices are aplenty across a rather wide price range.

Besides deciding on a variant and suitable price range, the other major consideration is choosing between naturally aspirated or hybrid 1.5-litre powertrains.

For those who want the style and features, you can't go wrong with HR-V RS variants, for keener drivers who appreciate instant torque, the 1.5 Hybrid is where it's at.

Also read: Buying a used Honda City (GM7) or Jazz (GP5) Hybrid - This is how you maintain one properly

With cars such as the HR-V, higher mileage cars need not be a deterrent factor – as spare parts and repair work is easily accessible. Pay more attention to the overall quality of the exterior, interior and driving feel for signs of wear and tear. 

Alternatively, check out these immaculate Honda HR-V examples on Carsome, which are offered with cash discounts and exclusive tint packages for a limited time only.

Maintenance and common problems?

With proven powertrains and a superbly designed chassis, reliability is a cornerstone of the Honda HR-V.

Many owners have clocked upwards of 200,000 km with no issues if the vehicle receives timely scheduled maintenance. Here’s a simplified table of the basic maintenance schedule of the Honda HR-V:

Despite a higher selling price, service costs for the Honda HR-V aren't much higher than the Honda City, given part prices and intervals are mostly the same. 

The main cost differences between the naturally-aspirated and hybrid variants are the replacements of the fuel filter and transmission oil.

The transmission oil service is actually twice as long for the 1.5 Hybrid versus the 1.8-litre HR-V but requires more frequent changes of the fuel filter assembly to ensure smooth operation. Also, note that the 7-speed DCT transmission requires draining and replacing a DOT 4 clutch fluid from time to time. For this, check with an authorised Honda service centre. 

As for the HR-V 1.5 Hybrid, batteries are offered with an 8-year warranty and cost about RM 6,100 to replace, but given almost all 1.5 Hybrids are less than 3 years old, they would likely still be covered by their manufacturer warranties. 

Also read: Used Mazda Biante from RM 60k - More comfortable than Serena, drives better, sliding doors for Alza money

Besides, scheduled maintenance, there are a few wear and tear related issues that prospective buyers should know about when shopping for a Honda HR-V. 

Besides the above, there have been sporadic complaints of small leaks at the transmission oil seal, though uncommon, it is wise to get your prospective used HR-V up on a hoist to check for oil leaks. 

Conclusion

While it is no longer the segment-busting product it once was, the second-generation Honda HR-V still has many qualities that are very much relevant today. 

The Honda HR-V should rank highly for buyers who are looking for a steadfast, practical and superbly designed SUV that offers space on par with bigger SUVs, for less. 

At current prices, it still offers immense value and will match a new Perodua Ativa, for instance, in terms of features and overall value, and outperform it in terms of practicality.

As always, take your time in looking for well presented and maintained car, or leave it to the experts at Carsome, when finding your next dream car.