Specs firm on new Honda HR-V

HONDA Australia has released further specification and equipment details of its all-new HR-V small SUV, which is due to arrive in local showrooms later this month.

 

In addition to featuring an e:HEV dual-motor hybrid powertrain, coupe-inspired styling, the latest-specification Honda Sensing safety- and driver-assistance technology, as well as clever packaging, the third-generation HR-V will bring chassis and suspension enhancements to the range “to provide an agile and enjoyable driving experience,” the Japanese brand says.

 

Riding on an updated version of Honda’s global small platform, the new HR-V will be offered in two trim grades. The entry-level Vi-X will feature Honda’s proven 1.5-litre i-VTEC four-cylinder petrol engine while the high-grade e:HEV L will be powered by the aforementioned e:HEV dual-motor petrol-electric hybrid combination with three drive modes: electric, hybrid and petrol.

 

Standard equipment is set to include 18-inch alloy wheels with tyre pressure monitoring, LED headlights with auto high-beam, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow technology, a 9.0-inch infotainment array with integral satellite navigation and wireless Apple CarPlay, and keyless entry with push-button start.

 

What’s more, the high-grade e:HEV L will have a handsfree tailgate with walk-away close, heated steering wheel and -front seats, an acoustic windscreen, and LED active cornering lights.

 

Honda says the new-generation HR-V features a more rigid body structure than the outgoing model and “benefits from extensive suspension, steering and braking enhancements”. A slightly longer wheelbase is further set to improve the model’s ride quality, while an “all-encompassing approach to NVH management” will improve noise insulation and overall cabin refinement.

 

The HR-V is said to offer comparable interior space to mid-size SUVs with the rear seats positioned 30mm further rearward to extend second-row legroom, while the model’s rear backrest offers an additional two degrees of recline compared with that of its predecessor.

 

The model also benefits from a new Air Diffusion System that Honda claims delivers “the restorative effects of a natural breeze to all occupants”.

 

The air-conditioning update joins an LCD centre screen that was designed to minimise driver distraction and whose menu system is fully customisable. The system is also quicker to respond to inputs and offers an interface Honda says is comparable to smartphone-style controls. Over and above wireless Apple CarPlay interface, the system includes wired Android Auto connectivity and can receive over-the-air updates to maintain mapping and software currency.

 

Both HR-V grades are fitted with the latest iteration of Honda Sensing technology, including forward-collision warning, a collision mitigation braking system, lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist systems, road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control (with low-speed follow), high-beam support and a traffic-sign recognition system.

 

High-grade HR-V e:HEV L variants further feature blind-spot information system, rear cross-traffic alert, an intelligent speed limiter and acoustic vehicle alert, which produces an audible alert for pedestrians when the vehicle is propelled in electric drive mode at speeds up to 20 km/h.

 

“Building on HR-V’s existing strengths, the third-generation model represents the beginning of a new chapter for Honda’s small SUV, with sophisticated styling, premium quality, advanced safety and intuitive technology,” said Honda Australia director Stephen Collins.

 

“Repositioned as a sophisticated entry point to the Honda vehicle line-up in Australia, the all-new HR-V has been designed to appeal to a broader audience, elevating premium styling and quality alongside the HR-V’s enduring trademarks of spaciousness and versatility.”

 

Mr Collins says full specifications and pricing for the new HR-V will be announced at the end of March.