Honda has released details of the FR-V, a compact people carrier based on the CR-V platform to be launched in November. The short, wide stance helps create a dynamic, wedge-style exterior and a spacious, modern interior. Six independent seats are arranged in two rows of three, with the front and rear center seats mounted on long slides that allow for a V-pattern seat layout. This provides three-person, side-by-side seating without excessive vehicle width. When slid back, the front center seat forms an intermediate row between the front and rear rows, bringing front and rear occupants closer together, and making conversation easier.

According to Honda, "six seats are plenty for most small families. With all the seats in two rows, it's easy for everyone in the car to talk to each other". Any of the three rear seats can be folded flat into the floor for a large loading space. The central front seat can be folded for extra-long loads or to act as a table. In this position it features a fold-out extension with storage drawer.

The FR-V will come with a choice of three engines including one diesel unit. The two petrol engines will be Honda's 1.7-litre VTec and 2-litre i-VTec units. The turbo-diesel engine will be a 2.2-litre with a power output of 103kW and 340Nm of torque.