Geneva sees the debut of the much anticipated diesel variant of the FR-V, set to go on sale in Britain in August.
The fuel-efficient, Euro IV compliant, 2.2 i-CTDi turbodiesel engine, already familiar from its application in both the Accord and, more recently the CR-V ranges, joins the FR-V's 125 PS 1.7 SOHC VTEC and 150 PS 2.0 litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engines available from launch.
The diesel engine's frugal, yet exceptionally flexible nature perfectly complements the practical and fun to drive FR-V, providing the same levels of driving pleasure as its petrol-engined sister models. With maximum output of 140 PS at 4,000 rpm and a particularly broad spread of torque peaking at 340 Nm, the diesel FR-V pulls strongly across all engine speeds, offering relaxed and effortless motoring, and a distinct performance advantage, particularly when accelerating in 4th and 5th gears. The 0 to 62 mph dash is covered in 10.1 seconds.
Yet economy isn't penalised and combined cycle fuel consumption is an impressive 44 mpg; carbon dioxide emissions are 169 g/km. Helping to realise the engine's full potential is a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission, a 'tall' sixth gear making for refined and economical cruising.
Accord and CR-V have amply demonstrated the in car refinement possible when choosing diesel power. Noise levels in the FR-V are only slightly above those of the petrol version, thanks to a series of additional suppression measures and the inherently smooth characteristics of the i-CTDi engine.
What's more, servicing costs are kept low with an oil change at 12,500 miles or once every year and an air filter change at 25,000miles.
The advanced 4-cylinder DOHC unit features four valves per cylinder and a second generation common rail direct injection system, which interacts with a variable nozzle turbocharger with intercooler to ensure optimum control over intake pressure.
Key technologies in achieving exceptional refinement include offset cylinders, a second order balancer shaft and an acoustic engine cover, while friction is minimised through features such as roller follower rocker arms. Close coupled and under floor catalytic converters contribute to the low emissions performance.
The combination of this engine and Honda's innovative take on the compact MPV segment brings to market a formidable contender. Sporty, dynamic, good looks, a distinctive 3 + 3 seating configuration, sliding and folding centre seats, and simple dive-down rear seats that disappear into the floor make this a car that is a pleasure to live with.
The seating arrangement allows immense flexibility, and even with the full complement of six passengers, there is still space for 439 litres of luggage (VDA) - rising to 1049 litres with three occupants in the front row and the rear seats folded flat.
With the space of a D-segment saloon, occupants can sit three abreast in comfort and effortlessly communicate with one another, while sufficient space remains for their luggage. The sliding centre seats allow shoulder and leg room to be maximised. Reclining rear seats further enhance comfort. And when the load area needs to be opened up, the three rear seats can be folded individually into the floor in a simple one handed operation.
The multifunctional front centre seat also features a seatback that can be folded forward to form a comfortable armrest or table, or permit long loads to be carried. Further versatility comes from its split seat squab, the front half of which flips through 180 degrees to reveal secure storage beneath for small valuables. A pull out storage tray is located beneath the seat.
Passenger safety has been a prime consideration and FR-V features dual stage front airbags; side airbags for front seat occupants; full length curtain airbags; and three point seatbelts on all six seats. Additionally, the front seats belts have pre-tensioners and load limiters. So that both front seat passengers are equally well protected, the extra large passenger airbag opens to a width of 860 mm.
Honda believes parents will welcome the opportunity for their children to travel 'up front' where they can keep an eye on them. When small children are placed in the front centre seat, Honda recommends that it is moved to its rearmost position. ISOFIX fittings are included on the front centre seat as well as the two rear outer seats. Each also has a tether anchor point in the base of the seat backs.
A steering wheel adjustable for reach and rake and a height adjustable seat allow the driver to select an optimum position. The main instruments appear as a darkened panel with the ignition switched off, transforming to a bright display when the key is inserted. The gearshift is mounted on the fascia alongside the steering wheel and falls easily to hand.
As well as the storage tray and storage compartment contained within the front centre seat, plenty of space for odds and ends is provided throughout the cabin: a large glovebox, large door bins - those in the rear shaped to accommodate large drinks bottles - a covered cubby hole in the central fascia, a fold down coin holder alongside the steering column and a pull out three-capacity cup holder in the lower fascia. The front centre seat passenger also gets a sun visor, footrest and dedicated air vent and heater outlet.
The FR-V's relatively wide track, and suspension geometry that moves the roll centre closer to the centre of gravity, has allowed the use of softer springs and as a result the FR-V is fun to drive with a supple, flat ride, high stability during cornering and good ride comfort. At 10.4 m, R-V's turning circle is one of the best in class, and as a consequence the vehicle is particularly easy to manoeuvre.
Added driving security comes from Honda's own 4-channel Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system, ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and brake assist system. Braking is by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear.
The FR-V 2.2 i-CTDi comes in two model grades, SE and Sport. Specification of both models includes front and side airbags plus full length curtain airbags, electric windows front and rear, keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, radio/CD player, immobiliser, alarm, heated door mirrors, steering wheel audio controls, VSA and 16 inch wheels. The Sport model gains front alloy wheels, foglamps, cruise control, fold-flat door mirrors, and leather steering wheel and gear shift knob.
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