The Honda FR-V, also marketed as the Honda Edix in Japan and other select markets, is a unique six-seat multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Honda between 2004 and 2007. This generation, internally designated as the FR-V/Edix, aimed to provide a practical and spacious family vehicle with a distinctive design. The 2.2 i-CTDi variant, powered by Honda’s N22A1 engine producing 140 horsepower, represented a significant offering in the European diesel MPV segment. It was positioned as a mid-range option, balancing fuel efficiency with reasonable performance for family transport.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | FR-V |
| Generation | FR-V/Edix |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i-CTDi (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg, 53.3 UK mpg, 18.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp, 88.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 2000 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N22A1 |
| Engine displacement | 2204 cm3 (134.5 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 97.1 mm (3.82 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1584 kg (3492.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 546 kg (1203.72 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 439 l (15.5 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1049 l (37.05 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 58 l (15.32 US gal | 12.76 UK gal) |
| Length | 4285 mm (168.7 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Height | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front track | 1550 mm (61.02 in.) |
| Rear track | 1560 mm (61.42 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J X 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the FR-V 2.2 i-CTDi is Honda’s N22A1 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The N22A1 is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler, boosting power output to 140 horsepower and 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for enhanced performance. The engine’s robust construction and advanced fuel injection technology contributed to its relatively good reliability. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque output, providing adequate acceleration for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 i-CTDi FR-V offered a comfortable and practical driving experience. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 140 hp engine and 340 Nm of torque provided sufficient power for highway cruising and overtaking maneuvers. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the lower-powered 1.7-liter petrol version, the diesel offered significantly more torque, resulting in better acceleration, especially when fully loaded. However, it didn’t possess the responsiveness of higher-output diesel engines found in some competitor vehicles. The FR-V’s suspension was tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and providing a stable ride. The steering was light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 i-CTDi FR-V typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Higher trim levels offered features such as alloy wheels, climate control, and a sunroof. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring durable materials and a functional layout. The unique six-seat configuration, with three seats in each row, was a key selling point. The seats were individually adjustable, allowing for flexible passenger arrangements. Optional extras included navigation systems and leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The FR-V’s chassis was designed to provide a stable and comfortable ride. It featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The suspension setup was tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sporty handling, making it well-suited for long journeys and family transport. The relatively modest weight of the vehicle, around 1584 kg (3492.12 lbs), helped to contribute to its decent fuel economy and manageable handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda FR-V 2.2 i-CTDi was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, unique seating configuration, and fuel-efficient diesel engine. However, some critics noted that the styling was somewhat unconventional and that the driving experience wasn’t particularly engaging. Compared to other MPVs in its class, such as the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso, the FR-V offered a distinctive alternative. The diesel engine provided competitive fuel economy, and the six-seat layout was a unique selling point. However, some competitors offered more refined interiors and more advanced technology.
Legacy
The Honda FR-V, while not a massive sales success, remains a fondly remembered vehicle for its innovative design and practicality. The N22A1 engine proved to be relatively reliable, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance. Today, the FR-V 2.2 i-CTDi can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, fuel-efficient, and unique MPV. Parts availability is generally good, and the engine’s robust construction ensures that it can provide many years of reliable service with proper care. The FR-V’s legacy lies in its attempt to redefine the MPV segment with its distinctive styling and innovative seating arrangement.
