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MPV
The FR-V, like the Fiat Multipla, has six seats in two rows of three. Its high-quality cabin is stacked with all the kit you need to make the family feel safe and pampered.
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You’re a little short on storage space, however, and the centrally mounted controls are a bit of a stretch for the driver. The stereo and heating controls are fiddly, too. Still, the driving position is good and the dash-mounted gearlever is easy to use. Even though the middle front seat slides back, shoulder room is tight with three adults on board. However, none of them will complain about their leg- or headroom. The FR-V is a rewarding drive and cruises quietly, apart from some wind noise. All engines are strong, willing and smooth, and the wide body helps give sure-footed handling. You won’t notice most bumps, either.
Running Costs
If you want a six-seater, the Fiat Multipla will be cheaper to buy and run. And, many mainstream seven-seaters will also cost less than the FR-V, but then this is a high-quality people carrier full of everything that's great about Hondas. So it's not the cheapest, but it is good value. Talking of which, it will hold its value better than most, which means the overall whole-life cost won’t be high as the initially high purchase price suggests. You won’t pay that much at the pumps, either. The 1.7 is good for an impressive official average of 37.7mpg and the 2.2 diesel extends that to 44.8mpg. Even the 2.0 gives you 33.6mpg. Insurance premiums (group 9-12 depending on model) should be similar to those of a Ford S-Max or Galaxy. Service costs are likely to be cheaper than a Renault Scenic’s, about the same as the Fords’ and dearer than a VW Touran.