Honda HR-V vs Nissan Qashqai & Peugeot 3008

Another week has passed, so it must be time for yet another new crossover to be launched. Now, it’s Honda entering the fray, with the all-new HR-V. 

• Best crossovers

While the HR-V badge has been seen before, the original model was launched over a decade ago, well before the concept of the crossover had caught on with buyers. 

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But it’s a different story today, as there’s no shortage of opponents to rival the newcomer.

• Best family cars

For its first test, we’re pitching the HR-V against our current class favourite, the Nissan Qashqai. On paper, the Nissan and Honda are level pegging for price, running costs, space and performance, so we’re expecting a close battle.

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Our second rival is something of a wildcard in the shape of the Peugeot 3008. It walks a fine line between crossover and five-seat MPV, so it’ll test the HR-V’s practical qualities to the maximum. Tweaked looks and a new engine range give it low running costs, while even in top-spec Allure trim, it looks excellent value.

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For the Honda’s test debut, we’ve lined up petrol-powered models to see exactly where it fits in the crossover class hierarchy.

• Honda HR-V review

• Nissan Qashqai review

• Peugeot 3008 review

Click the links above to read individual reviews, and scroll down to see which crossover comes up trumps in this test...

Head-to-head

Practicality

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The HR-V has a bigger boot than the Qashqai, at 453 litres, but the 3008 gets 512 litres. Honda’s parcel shelf is flimsy, although the elasticated frame makes it easy to move out the way. The 3008’s split tailgate creates a useful rear bench, while the boot floor can be mounted at multiple levels to create useful hidden storage.

Off-road?

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You can get a four-wheel-drive Qashqai, yet only with the top-of-the-range 1.6 dCi diesel. There’s no 4WD on the HR-V or 3008, yet Peugeot does offer its Grip Control system on diesels. This £470 optional extra adds all-weather tyres and a switchable traction control system.

Emissions

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The HR-V auto is greener than its manual rivals, with 125g/km CO2 emissions. However, the six-speed manual model is a little dirtier, with its figure of 134g/km meaning £130 road tax and higher Benefit in Kind rates than both rivals here.

Verdict

1st place: Nissan Qashqai

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It’s a win for the Qashqai, but only just. There’s more passenger space than in the Honda, especially in the back seats, yet the boot isn’t as big as the HR-V’s and it doesn’t have as many useful touches. The Nissan and Honda are similar on the road, but the 1.2 turbo petrol is surprisingly sluggish. Still, making extra shifts with the manual box is more appealing than using the Honda’s CVT.

2nd place: Honda HR-V

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The new HR-V has impressed on its first test. There’s no arguing with its spacious boot and versatile back seats, and while it’s geared towards comfort rather than sporty driving, it’s a match for the Qashqai overall. Unfortunately, the CVT box massively blunts the car’s appeal. On the basis of this first test, the diesel manual could be a class contender.

3rd place: Peugeot 3008 

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If the 3008 had a better chassis and steering set-up, then it could’ve sprung a surprise in this test. The cabin is family friendly and the boot is spacious with plenty of useful touches, while the 1.2 three-cylinder engine is a punchy performer once you’re on the move. However, even the 3008’s price saving can’t make up for the lacklustre driving experience.

Other options for similar money

New: MINI Countryman Cooper Park Lane

Price: £24,175 Engine: 1.6-litre 4cyl, 120bhp

Petrol auto crossovers are scarce, and the Park Lane Countryman adds four-wheel drive to its kit list. That cuts economy to 40.9mpg, although the exclusive grey paintjob with red detailing and the classy cabin are tempting.

Used: Honda CR-V 2.0 i-VTEC SE

Price: £23,000 Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl, 153bhp

If you’re a Honda fan but the HR-V doesn’t quite have enough space, then you can pick-up a year-old ex-demo CR-V via the brand’s Approved Used scheme. It features a torque converter auto box, as well as a healthy 589-litre boot.

Key specs: