2019 Honda HR-V Sport Manual: Is It Worth It?

So, you're eyeing the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport with a manual transmission, huh? Good choice, my friend! You're clearly someone who appreciates a little engagement behind the wheel. Let's dive into what makes this particular version of the HR-V tick and whether it's the right fit for your needs. The HR-V, in general, is known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and Honda's reputation for reliability. But the Sport trim, especially with the manual gearbox, adds a dash of fun to the mix. We're talking about a subcompact crossover that doesn't just get you from point A to point B; it tries to put a smile on your face while doing it. Now, before you rush out and sign on the dotted line, let's break down the key aspects of this car, covering everything from its performance and features to its potential drawbacks. After all, buying a car is a big decision, and you want to make sure you're making an informed one. Whether you're a seasoned manual driver or someone looking to learn the ropes, this article will give you a comprehensive overview of the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual.

What Makes the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport Manual Special?

The 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual stands out for several reasons, primarily because it combines the practicality of a subcompact crossover with the engaging experience of a manual transmission. In a world where manual gearboxes are becoming increasingly rare, especially in smaller SUVs, the HR-V Sport offers a refreshing alternative. This isn't just about nostalgia; it's about having more control over the car and feeling more connected to the driving experience. The Sport trim itself adds a few visual and functional enhancements over the base HR-V. You get a more aggressive-looking exterior with sporty bumpers, gloss black accents, and unique 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, there are Sport-specific seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding a touch of premium feel. But the real magic lies in that six-speed manual transmission. It allows you to extract the most from the HR-V's 1.8-liter engine, keeping it in its sweet spot for optimal performance. While the engine isn't a powerhouse, the manual transmission makes it feel more responsive and eager to rev. It's a combination that appeals to driving enthusiasts who want a practical and fuel-efficient vehicle without sacrificing driving pleasure. Furthermore, the HR-V's compact size makes it easy to maneuver in city traffic and park in tight spaces. It's a versatile vehicle that can handle daily commutes, weekend road trips, and everything in between. The combination of sporty styling, a manual transmission, and Honda's reputation for reliability makes the 2019 HR-V Sport a compelling option for those seeking something a little different in the subcompact crossover segment.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about how the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual actually performs on the road. Under the hood, you'll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not seem earth-shattering, keep in mind that the HR-V is a relatively lightweight vehicle. This helps to make the most of the available power, especially when paired with the six-speed manual transmission. The manual gearbox allows you to keep the engine in its optimal power band, making it feel more responsive than the continuously variable transmission (CVT) offered on other HR-V trims. You can downshift for extra oomph when passing or climbing hills, and you have more control over the engine's revs. The clutch is light and easy to modulate, making it suitable for both experienced manual drivers and those who are still learning. The shifter has a decent feel, with reasonably short throws and positive engagement. However, it's not the most precise or sporty-feeling manual transmission out there, but it's perfectly adequate for daily driving. In terms of handling, the HR-V Sport strikes a good balance between comfort and agility. The suspension is tuned to be slightly firmer than the base HR-V, which helps to reduce body roll in corners. The steering is light and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the HR-V Sport manual is a fun and engaging car to drive, especially for those who appreciate the involvement of a manual transmission. It's not a sports car, but it's more enjoyable than many other subcompact crossovers on the market. The combination of a manual gearbox, responsive handling, and a fuel-efficient engine makes it a compelling option for those who want a practical and fun-to-drive vehicle.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior that prioritizes practicality and ease of use. The Sport trim adds a few unique touches, such as Sport-specific seats with black fabric and red stitching, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a leather-wrapped shift knob. These additions elevate the interior ambiance and give it a slightly more premium feel. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample room for both the driver and passenger. The rear seats are also surprisingly spacious for a subcompact crossover, with enough legroom and headroom to accommodate adults on shorter trips. One of the HR-V's standout features is its Magic Seat system, which allows you to configure the rear seats in a variety of ways to maximize cargo space. You can fold the rear seats flat to create a large, flat loading area, or you can fold the seat bottoms up to create a tall, narrow space for carrying items like plants or bicycles. In terms of technology, the HR-V Sport comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's infotainment system, giving you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation. Other standard features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. However, the HR-V Sport doesn't come with some of the more advanced safety features that are available on higher trims, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Overall, the interior of the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual is a comfortable and practical space that's well-suited for daily driving and longer trips. The Sport-specific touches add a touch of style, and the Magic Seat system provides unmatched versatility.

Potential Drawbacks

Okay, so the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual has a lot going for it, but it's not without its potential drawbacks. It's important to be aware of these before making a purchase decision. First and foremost, the engine is not the most powerful in its class. While the manual transmission helps to make the most of the available power, it can still feel a bit sluggish at times, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. If you're looking for a vehicle with brisk acceleration, you might be disappointed. Another potential drawback is the lack of advanced safety features on the Sport trim. As mentioned earlier, features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking are not available on this trim level. If these features are important to you, you'll need to step up to a higher trim. The infotainment system can also be a bit frustrating to use at times. The touchscreen is not the most responsive, and the lack of physical buttons for certain functions can make it difficult to navigate the system while driving. Furthermore, the HR-V's ride quality can be a bit firm on rough roads, especially with the Sport trim's larger 18-inch wheels. This can make for a less comfortable ride on long trips. Finally, the 2019 HR-V is getting a bit dated compared to some of its newer competitors. While it's still a solid vehicle, it lacks some of the latest technology and features that are available on newer models. Despite these drawbacks, the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual is still a compelling option for those who value practicality, fuel efficiency, and the engagement of a manual transmission. However, it's important to weigh these drawbacks against its strengths before making a decision.

Is the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport Manual Worth It?

So, the million-dollar question: Is the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual worth it? The answer, as with most things, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a practical, fuel-efficient, and fun-to-drive subcompact crossover with a manual transmission, then the HR-V Sport is definitely worth considering. It offers a unique combination of features that are hard to find in other vehicles in its class. The manual gearbox adds a level of engagement that's missing from most modern cars, and the Sport trim's styling enhancements give it a more aggressive and sporty look. However, if you prioritize power, advanced safety features, or a more comfortable ride, then you might want to look elsewhere. The HR-V's engine is not the most powerful, and the Sport trim lacks some of the latest safety technology. Ultimately, the best way to decide whether the 2019 Honda HR-V Sport manual is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel, experience the manual transmission for yourself, and see how it feels on the road. Consider your daily driving needs, your budget, and your personal preferences. If you value the engagement of a manual transmission and are willing to sacrifice some power and advanced features, then the HR-V Sport could be the perfect car for you. It's a unique and compelling option in the subcompact crossover segment that's sure to put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. And let's be honest, guys, how many new cars these days come with a stick shift? This one's a keeper if you appreciate that kind of thing.