Honda FR-V
Starting off this list is the Honda FR-V. Many manufacturers during this time were experimenting with different body styles, in particular the MPV format, as consumers were gravitating towards the increased space and higher driving position that this class guarantees. Many MPVs went with a 3 row layout to increase seating capacity to carry 6 to 8 passengers, however Honda adopted a very different approach, shared only by one other vehicle on the market.
The FR-V had seating for 6, with 3 in the front and 3 in the back, which allowed for a larger boot space and comfortable seating for passengers, whilst still being able to park in a standard space without too much hassle given that it wasn’t too long. The FR-V was available between 2004 and 2009 with a range of engines, from 1.7 to 2.4-litres and came with the option of leather seats, auxiliary port and three ISOFIX point across the back.
Honda Insight
In the early 2000’s, the idea of alternative fuel vehicles was starting to emerge, and Honda was one of the first to jump on the bandwagon, with their self-charging hybrid Insight. This 2 seater was designed with a lightweight aluminium body which helped make the Insight capable of up to 83mpg, which is very impressive, even in 2022. The Insight derived its styling from the iconic Honda CR-X with new design details, including the covered rear wheels and glass boot lid. All of this helped to create a futuristic looking coupe.
Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V as we know it is a stylish crossover that sits below the CR-V in the product range. This was also true in the early 2000’s, when Honda first introduced the HR-V, however it looked very different to the model of today, with its angular, squared of shape, option of three and five door models, this was a really unique and stylish model. The first generation HR-V was sold from 1998 to 2006 and was available with four wheel drive, two different 1.6-litre petrol engines, and the choice of manual and automatic transmissions.
Honda S2000
The Honda S2000 is arguably one of the most iconic Honda models ever, a sporty two seater roadster, with a 2.0 and later 2.2-litre petrol engine, capable of 0-60 in as little as 6.8 seconds. The S2000 won a number of different awards including the Engine of the Year awards in 2003, as well as regularly topping the JD power and Top Gear customer surveys. Nowadays the S2000 is a thing of legend and so they command a premium on the used market, with examples fetching up to £50,000!
Honda Civic
The final model on this list is the Honda Civic from 2005. The Civic took on a much smoother and more contemporary design approach when compared to its predecessor. With its front and rear light bar, glass boot lid, triangular exhaust pipes and futuristic interior. The Civic really set a new standard for competitors thanks to its more premium interior with features such as the Honda Jazz’s Magic Seats, Navigation and Automatic Lights and Wipers.
Discover the modern day Honda range.
