November Launch of 2005 Honda FR-V
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HC Racer H5
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From: KCK
November Launch of 2005 Honda FR-V
Most likely this will only be launched in Europe and Japan.
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.
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.
Senior Member
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From: Seattle
With the Matrix, upcoming Mazda 5, etc... I think there is definately a market for small sport wagons in the US. I think I even read somewhere thats its one of the fastest growing segments. I think Honda is reluctant to have 3 small crossover/SUV vehicles in its line-up, but if they position the Edix as a sportier alternative than say a CR-V or Element, I think they have a winner on their hands. Stick the 210hp engine from the RSX in it and I think you will have a lot of takers.
Wannabe yuppie
Joined: Dec 2000
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From: Madison, WI
The Matrix is just about the same size as the Mazda3 hatch, not the Mazda5. Plus it only has two rows of seats and is built overwhelmingly in front wheel drive. The awd version is pretty rare.
I'd say that the closest vehicle to the FR-V is the Mazda5 although the FR-V has regular doors as opposed to the 5's sliding doors. If anything I think Honda would wait to see how the 5 does before bringing the FR-V over. Honda is not really known to charge into emerging market segments (notwithstanding the notable exception of hybrid electric cars).
I'd say that the closest vehicle to the FR-V is the Mazda5 although the FR-V has regular doors as opposed to the 5's sliding doors. If anything I think Honda would wait to see how the 5 does before bringing the FR-V over. Honda is not really known to charge into emerging market segments (notwithstanding the notable exception of hybrid electric cars).
He needs a bit more room then a regular 5 door hatch, doesn't need an SUV, and likes to sit a tad higher then a car.
Senior Member
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From: Seattle
If Mazda can bring over the '5' to the States, I see no reason why Honda can't bring the FR-V. It would bring some much needed competition to the wagon market. Pretty soon, Honda will be the only manufacturer without a wagon in its line-up.
Midwest Acurati
Joined: Apr 2004
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From: Middle America
Originally Posted by velfarretokyo
If Mazda can bring over the '5' to the States, I see no reason why Honda can't bring the FR-V. It would bring some much needed competition to the wagon market. Pretty soon, Honda will be the only manufacturer without a wagon in its line-up.
If I wanted a SUV, I'd check out the 4Runner and Pathfinder. Pilot might try to look like them but is really in the segment populated by the Highlander and Murano.
lots and lots of fail
Joined: Dec 1999
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From: Deeeeeeeeeeeeeeetroit
Originally Posted by M Type X
Pilot isn't much more than a tall Accord wagon. Calling it a SUV is teh funny.