Paris show: Honda’s HR-V Euro version revealed

HONDA’S new compact SUV, the born-again HR-V, is set to get another motor show airing, this time in European guise at the Paris motor show next month.

The world was introduced to the new HR-V in its North American trim at the York motor show in April. Now it is Europe’s turn with Honda showing off a near-production ready HR-V intended for that market.

Visually, both United States and European versions are almost identical, with real differences likely to be found in the specifications and drivetrain line-ups, which Honda is expected to disclose in October.

In Japan, the HR-V is called the Vezel and has been on sale since late 2013.

The arrival of the HR-V in Australia in the first quarter of 2015 will resurrect the nameplate that has been absent for 14 years. It will join the current Honda line-up sitting under the larger CR-V SUV ready to take on rivals in the form of the Ford EcoSport, Holden Trax, Peugeot 2008 and Nissan Juke.

Honda Australia public relations manager Melissa Cross said the HR-V would be a significant addition to the company’s range.

“The HR-V is an important model for Honda Australia, as it will compete in the growing small SUV segment,” Ms Cross said.

“It’s based on the global Jazz platform, which includes the unique centre tank layout, and will be equipped with Magic Seats.

“It will share some of the characteristics with the overseas prototypes.

However, it will have specifications and styling specifically for our market.”

Magic Seats are what Honda calls its versatile seating arrangement already in use in the Civic and Jazz. Seating can be folded in a number of different ways to increase cargo space.

The placement of the fuel tank under the centre of the car allows for extra space in the boot.

Ms Cross said Australian pricing and specifications for the HR-V will be announced closer to the on sale date in early 2015.

Being based on the Jazz, the HR-V is likely to be front-wheel drive only, with a powertrain line-up that includes a 1.5-litre direct-injection petrol engine.