The Honda FR-V, marketed as the Honda Edix in Japan, is a unique six-seat multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) produced by Honda between 2004 and 2009. The facelifted version, introduced in 2007, brought styling revisions and minor mechanical updates. This article focuses on the 1.8 i-VTEC variant with a five-speed automatic transmission, a configuration primarily aimed at providing a comfortable and practical family vehicle. Production of this specific combination ran from 2007 to 2009.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | FR-V/Edix (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 i-VTEC (140 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 96.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.3 kg/Nm, 120.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 174 Nm @ 4300 rpm (128.34 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R18A1 |
| Engine displacement | 1799 cm3 (109.78 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC, i-VTEC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.7 l (3.91 US qt | 3.26 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1449 kg (3194.5 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 2020 kg (4453.34 lbs) |
| Max load | 571 kg (1258.84 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs) |
| Length | 4285 mm (168.7 in) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in) |
| Width including mirrors | 2113 mm (83.19 in) |
| Height | 1610-1770 mm (63.39 – 69.69 in) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 91V |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Honda FR-V, launched in 2004, distinguished itself with its unique seating arrangement – three seats in both the front and rear rows. This configuration, combined with its MPV body style, aimed to provide a versatile and spacious vehicle for families. The 2007 facelift brought revised front and rear styling, along with updates to the interior. The 1.8 i-VTEC engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission represented a mid-range offering in the FR-V lineup, positioned between the base 1.7-liter engine and the more powerful 2.0-liter variants. It was primarily sold in Europe and Japan, where compact MPVs were popular.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the FR-V 1.8 Automatic is the R18A1 engine, a 1.8-liter (1799 cc) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to Honda’s K-series family, known for its reliability and efficiency. The R18A1 utilizes Honda’s i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology, which optimizes valve timing and lift based on engine speed and load, improving both performance and fuel economy. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine produces 140 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 174 Nm (128.34 lb-ft) of torque at 4300 rpm. The five-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes, prioritizing comfort over outright performance. This transmission is a conventional torque converter automatic, offering a balance between efficiency and drivability.
Driving Characteristics
The FR-V 1.8 Automatic offers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. While not particularly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.8 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 115 mph. The automatic transmission is tuned for smooth shifts, but can feel somewhat hesitant during quick acceleration or overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty due to the transmission’s inherent efficiency losses. The 2.0-liter FR-V offers significantly more power, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The 1.7-liter engine is more fuel-efficient but feels underpowered, especially when fully loaded.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic trim typically included features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, and a basic audio system with CD player. Higher trim levels added features like alloy wheels, fog lights, a sunroof, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable and practical, reflecting the vehicle’s family-oriented focus. The unique six-seat configuration featured individually adjustable seats, enhancing passenger comfort. Optional extras included navigation systems and leather upholstery.
Chassis & Braking
The FR-V utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with independent MacPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly engaging for enthusiastic drivers. The facelifted model received minor suspension tweaks to improve handling. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The relatively modest weight of the vehicle (around 3195 lbs) contributes to reasonable braking performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda FR-V was generally well-received by critics for its innovative seating arrangement and practicality. However, the styling was often considered polarizing. The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic variant was praised for its smooth transmission and comfortable ride, but some reviewers found the engine to be somewhat underpowered. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to rivals like the Renault Scenic and Citroën C4 Picasso, the FR-V offered a unique seating configuration but lacked the overall refinement and spaciousness of some competitors. Reliability was generally good, consistent with Honda’s reputation.
Legacy
The Honda FR-V, while not a mainstream success, remains a distinctive and interesting vehicle. The 1.8 i-VTEC Automatic powertrain is known for its reliability, and well-maintained examples are still relatively common on the used car market. The engine is generally robust and doesn’t suffer from any major known issues. The automatic transmission is also considered durable, provided it has been serviced regularly. Today, the FR-V appeals to buyers looking for a practical, spacious, and unique family vehicle. Its six-seat configuration remains a key selling point for those with larger families or specific transportation needs.
