Based on the J-WJ concept car shown at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show, the HR-V is designed to be fun and functional, as well as safe and clean.

It becomes the first petrol-powered recreational vehicle to achieve the Low Emission Vehicle (LEV) exhaust emission standard.

It has a frontal crash protection structure that sets a world standard for occupant crash safety in its class, and also incorporates new safety technologies to minimise injuries to pedestrians.

The 3-door HR-V fits into the Honda range just below the best-selling 2.0-1itre CR-V. It shares the CR-V’s dual-pump Real Time four-wheel-drive system, using simple hydraulics to detect slip in the front wheels and activate a clutch to provide four-wheel traction when needed.

The 1.6-1itre, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine produces 77 kW of power and 138 Nm of torque. The engine has been optimised for exceptional response in the low to mid rev ranges, providing acceleration performance comparable with 2.0-1itre competitors.

The engine features Honda’s LEV technology to achieve exhaust emissions about 80 per cent cleaner than current Australian regulations. Keys to this emission performance are a tumble-flow inlet and a new 600-cell catalytic converter that drastically reduces oxides of nitrogen (NOx)..

Two transmissions are offered; a 5-speed manual and Honda’s MultiMatic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which provides stepless ratio changes for smooth acceleration and optimum performance and fuel economy.

The new-generation CVT gains Honda’s Grade Logic Control to modify drive ratios through electronic control of the CVT’s steel belt and pulleys to suit any driving situation. Also, this transmission features new selectable Drive and Sports modes that can be operated by buttons on the steering wheel.

The HR-V has a wide track and sporty suspension to provide excellent handling and roadholding equal to a small coupe.

The front suspension is MacPherson strut, and the rear suspension is a compact, five-link De Dion type that reduces unsprung weight.

The Honda HR-V incorporates Honda’s latest body design advancements in crash G-force control, achieving world’s highest standard of occupant protection for a vehicle in its class.

These design features, which minimise body deformation while reducing peak G-force impact on the occupants, are being introduced across a number of new Honda small cars.

The HR-V also features a world first in pedestrian safety protection. The bonnet, wipers, mudguards and upper dashboard have all been designed with pedestrian safety in mind.

For example, the bonnet is impact absorbent, while the wipers have a pivot slide system to minimise injuries.

Seat belts have a pretensioner with a three-point load limiter. This tightens the seat belt in the early part of the impact and then gradually releases pressure around the chest to minimise chest deflection. Dual SRS airbags are standard.

A high seating position and spacious, quiet cabin give HR-V a solid comfortable feel for all four occupants.

The 50/50 split rear seats can be folded fiat in one motion to accommodate long loads such as a full-size snowboard.

The tailgate is a one-piece design for strength and ease of operation.

Honda senior director Neal Robertson said the Honda HR-V was a genuine attempt by Honda to apply its social conscience to a fun package.

"The HR-V brings LEV emissions and big-car safety to an affordable, functional vehicle that also happens to be fun to drive and own," he said.

"This is a pioneering vehicle that sets the benchmark for all compact 4x4s."