The final Honda FR-V was built in the summer of 2009, but you could be forgiven for not even knowing the car existed. The only true rival to Fiat's Multipla, the FR-V was a six-seater featuring two rows of three chairs, which means you can carry six people and still have plenty of room for luggage. There's ample flexibility with the seating configurations too, so if you're looking for a people carrier with a difference, don't overlook the FR-V.
Key Dates
9/04: The FR-V arrives, with a choice of 123bhp 1.7 or 148bhp 2.0-litre petrol engines only.
6/05: Honda's excellent all-alloy 2.2 I-CDTi turbodiesel engine is now available, in 138bhp form.
1/07: The FR-V range gets a facelift, with a 138bhp 1.8-litre petrol engine replacing the previous 1.7 and 2.0-litre units. The exterior details are also overhauled, along with the interior trim.
Honda FR-V (2004-2009) Checklist
- The turbodiesel engine can use oil, and as there's no oil warning light you need to check that the engine hasn't been running on empty.
- There can be vibrations through the steering, with reliable fixes hard to find; check for this on the test drive.
- Fuel consumption can be high on turbodiesel FR-Vs, if the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve has been replaced.
- Turbodiesels can also suffer from bearings failing in the turbocharger; look for clouds of black exhaust smoke.
We Like
- Reliability
- Handling
- Affordability
- Spacious interior
- Flexibility
- Performance
We Don't Like
- Ergonomics
- Hard to find
- Tight for six adults