The second generation Honda HR-V aims to stake a strong claim for the Japanese brand in the growing compact crossover market.

This time round, it’s more spacious and better equipped to take on segment leaders like Nissan’s Juke and Renault’s Captur.

Buyers choose from either a 1.5 petrol unit or a 1.6 diesel, both sending drive to the front wheels.

It looks good and deserves to do very well.

Honda reckons the MK2 model HR-V combines the ‘personality of a coupe with the solid stance of an SUV’ and they’re not too far wrong.

Think of it as a shrunken BMW X6 in appeal and you’re not too far off the mark.

The design is neat and interesting, with hidden rear door handles, deeply sculpted lower body panels and a CR-V-style front grille, headlamps and pointed taper at the rear side window line.

The cabin features decent quality materials, with a soft-touch dash top accented with brushed chrome and piano black inlays.

Unlike its predecessor, this HR-V’s quite spacious inside.

A lower-profile fuel tank mounted under the front seats frees up the under-floor space beneath the rear seats, enabling the platform to accommodate Honda’s ‘Magic Seat’ system.

As well as splitting 60/40, the rear bench seat backs can fold forward as the seat base lowers to create a long, flat floor.

The front and rear passenger seat backs can also fold forward to a horizontal position to accommodate longer items.

The boot holds 453-litres with the rear seats in use, and 1,026-litres to the window line with the rear seats folded away.

Its styling is neat and despite the sloping roofline, practicality looks well up to par.

It’s certainly a good deal more affordable and edgier than a CR-V.

Of course, Honda has been here before with the HR-V but has learned lessons from that first generation model.

This time round, the brand has appreciated the need for real substance behind the style.

With this in place, the HR-V will continue to appeal even if something fresher and more fashionable comes along.

Job done.