#3 How are Engine, Transmission, and Performance?
Slow, noisy, and unrefined, the HR-V's four-cylinder engine won't satisfy your inner street racer, and the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) exacerbates the engine's incivility. With front-wheel drive, the HR-V managed a rather sluggish 8.6-second 60-mph time. Adding all-wheel drive slowed it even further, to 9.5 seconds. The HR-V retains the sprightly and eager handling of the Fit hatchback on which it's based, but don't push it too hard. Choppiness when driving over rough roads and body roll in cornering could be resolved with better suspension damping, but when cruising on a level road or highway, the HR-V settles into a more even ride.