The 1999 Honda HR-V is a standout used car option in 2024. Not only does it have one of the most resilient 1.6-liter engines, but the 1999 HR-V also has a fuel consumption rate of 34.5 MPG, beating the classic 90’s RAV4 and the X-Trail combined. Also, the first-generation HR-V boasts an exterior design that remains timeless and relevant even in today’s market. As a family-sized SUV, the Honda HR-V comes with a cabin that offers a welcoming cabin space and a 285-liter cargo capacity. It’s also one of the top Honda cars you can buy this year. We’re covering why the 1999 Honda HR-V SUV is a reliable used car in 2024 and why it makes an excellent classic SUV addition to your garage.
With the upsurge of SUV demand in the late 90s, Honda introduced the 1999 Honda HR-V. Unveiled at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show and the 1998 Geneva Motor Show, the Honda HR-V debuted as the J-WJ concept, one of the four concepts in the brand’s J-Mover Series. Sharing its platform with the Honda Logo cousin, the HR-V came in three-door and five-door forms, offering a seating capacity for up to 4 occupants. On the market, the classic Honda HR-V rivaled the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, and the Suzuki Ignis. Years later, the classic HR-V is still relevant, and we know why.
Here’s why you should buy the 1999 Honda HR-V
1. Timeless Exterior Design
The 1999 Honda HR-V showcases a distinctive yet practical exterior design, embodying its nature as a compact crossover SUV. Its design features a bold grille design, with the Honda logo gleaming in the center. Speaking of gleaming, the grille’s sides come with stylish headlights that contribute to the vehicle’s cohesive and modern appearance. Depending on the market and trim level, optional features such as front fog or xenon lamps may enhance visibility in diverse driving conditions. The models we’ve seen in Malawi don’t feature the Xenon lights.
When you see the HR-V from the side, you will notice its aerodynamic design even more, along with smooth and flowing contours along the sides. The pronounced wheel arches add a sporty touch. On top of that, the 1999 Honda HR-V offered optional exterior features like a sunroof, rear spoiler, or roof rails.
2. Cheap Maintenance Costs
Beyond its dynamic performance and safety features, the 1999 Honda HR-V has budget-friendly maintenance costs. On average, the Honda HR-V costs $7,000 per year in maintenance costs.
The HR-V’s engineering simplicity contributes to affordable maintenance. Routine service tasks, from oil changes to brake inspections, are straightforward and cost-effective.
In addition to its affordable maintenance costs, the 1999 HR-V follows Honda’s reputation for longevity and durability.
3. Comfortable Cabin Space
Inside, the HR-V 1.6 J provides a comfortable space for both passengers and cargo. The interior length is around 180.5 cm (71.06 inches), offering ample legroom, while the width is approximately 132 cm (51.96 inches), ensuring passengers can sit comfortably. The interior height stands at about 120 cm (47.24 inches), providing sufficient headroom.
The front axle length is about 147 cm (57.87 inches), and the rear axle length is approximately 145.5 cm (57.28 inches). The SUV’s minimum turning circle is 5.2 meters, enhancing maneuverability in tight spaces.
4. Good Reliability Ratings
With a track record for dependability, the 1999 Honda HR-V has positive reliability assessments from many sites. Warranty Direct ranked the 1999 – 2006 Honda HR-V as the joint fifth most reliable car in the past 15 years. That said, owners of the 1999 Honda HR-V can expect a durable and resilient driving experience.
5. Family-Size Dimensions
Thanks to its compact dimensions, drivers of the 1999 HR-V will experience excellent maneuverability and ease of parking. On the dimensions, the classic HR-V measures 409.5 cm (161.22 inches) in length, 169.5 cm (66.73 inches) in width, and 158 cm (62.2 inches) in height.
6. Off-Road Capabilities
In addition to the 62.2-inch height, the 1999 HR-V has a higher ride height and ground clearance, which ensure improved visibility and off-road capabilities.
7. Simple-To-Use Infotainment and Connectivity Features
The 1999 Honda HR-V provides infotainment and connectivity features. Although specific features may vary based on the market and trim level, the features found in the 1999 HR-V were the Audio Tuner, CD Player, Aux Input, and navigation system. Some HR-V models had Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port for occupants to connect and charge their compatible devices.
8. Great Resale Value
Besides being an affordable SUV on the used car market, the 1999 Honda HR-V has a good resale value. This compact SUV is a wise investment for owners looking to maximize returns when it comes time to part ways. Additionally, the enduring design and enduring popularity of the HR-V contribute to sustained demand in the used car market.
9. Peppy Engine
The 1999-2001 Honda HR-V comes with a powerful 1.6-liter D16A engine. This engine, featuring a 4-cylinder SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft) design and a displacement of 1590 cm3, strikes a perfect balance between power and fuel efficiency.
Experience ample power with a maximum output of 106.4 PS (105 bhp) at 6200 rpm, making the HR-V 1.6 J suitable for city commuting and highway cruising. The engine ensures responsive acceleration and a smooth drive with a maximum torque of 138.2 Nm (101.9 lb-ft) at 3400 rpm.
10. Engaging 5-speed Manual Transmission
The HR-V’s 1.6-liter engine sends power to the wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. Like most manual transmission systems across Honda’s lineup, this 5-speed is quite engaging, giving you control over gear selection to optimize performance based on your preferences.
11. The 1999 Honda HR-V Is Fuel-Efficient
The 1999 Honda HR-V achieves a fuel consumption rate of 34.5 mpg. This exceptional fuel efficiency renders the HR-V an excellent option for daily commutes and extended highway journeys.
The 1999 Honda HR-V has a fuel tank capacity of 14.5 US gallons, 12 UK gallons, or 55 liters. With this generous fuel tank, drivers can cover significant distances before making a pit stop at a gas station. This feature is especially advantageous for road trip enthusiasts.
12. Positive Consumer Reviews
The 1999 Honda HR-V is a beloved classic SUV, evidenced by positive reviews on Carsales and Parkers. Many owners praise the 1999 HR-V’s reliability, fuel efficiency, and overall performance.
13. Smooth Ride Quality
With a wheelbase of 246 cm (96.85 inches) and a curb weight of 1180 kg (or 2601 lbs), the HR-V 1.6 J ensures stability and a smooth ride.
The 1999 Honda HR-V has a thoughtfully designed suspension system that provides a comfortable and controlled ride. The Honda SUV employs a strut suspension system in the front and a solid axle-type suspension system in the back. This combination improves stability and minimizes vibrations and body roll.
14. The 1999 Honda HR-V Has A Good Set Of Safety Features
Like its siblings, the first-generation Honda HR-V places a focus on safety. While specific safety attributes and ratings may differ by market, safety features on the 1999 Honda HR-V include airbags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), and door child safety locks with ISOFIX anchor points.
Also, the Honda HR-V has a strong frame that absorbs and distributes impact forces in collisions.
15. The 1999 Honda HR-V Is An Affordable Used Car
The 1999 Honda HR-V is among the most affordable used cars in 2024. Buyers should expect to pay between $2,100 and $6,550 for a 1999 Honda HR-V. With its cheap price range, this versatile SUV provides an accessible entry point into Honda’s reliability and performance territory.
