Long awaited, Honda finally presents the latest generation of Honda HR-V. The third generation of this model will go on sale in Europe soon at the end of the year. Honda’s flagship crossover received many changes. Not only the appearance but also the new interior, features and engine options.
The Japanese manufacturer continues the principle of “Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum” vehicle development. Honda uses its newest global small platform which is also used by the latest generation of Honda Jazz and City. One of them is with the fuel tank layout in the middle. This is intended to maximize cabin space.
Its body is wider than Jazz and City with a length of 4,330 mm, width of 1,790 mm and height of 1,590 mm. The new generation Honda HR-V comes with the exterior concept of Sleek & Long Cabin which is used to give a fresher appearance with a denser packaging. The coupe-style concept is clearly visible on the rear glass design. The bumper is also made with a new look. A body-matching grille is installed to replace the chrome front bar on the previous model.
Many new parts were made, such as contemporary door handles. The rear shows new tail-lights which are integrated with the Honda logo in the middle.
Various contemporary features are also embedded, one of which is the Honda Sensing safety technology. Meanwhile, Honda Connect has become a standard device. There are still several other features, one of which is the rear trunk door which is opened and closed without having to be touched.
Honda says it’s focused on cabin space. Starting from the use of a larger windshield for a wider view. The driver’s seat is made 10 mm higher than the previous model. Then the horizontal dashboard design and flat bonnet. The use of L-shaped air conditioning vents that maximize airflow to the rear.
The placement of the control buttons was also rearranged. The entertainment button and air conditioner are kept close together. Meanwhile, at the back, the seat arrangement is also new. HR-V increases legroom and headroom, although in dimensions it is still the same as the previous model.
Hybrid version
Taking the concept of “Amp Up Your Life”, the HR-V – known as Vezel for the Japanese market. It is also offered with a hybrid version which is a collaboration of a gasoline engine and an electric motor named e: HEV. “In the e: HEV model we aim to produce a powerful ride suitable for an SUV, by increasing the number of battery cells and increasing the motor output,” wrote Honda in an official statement at Honda.co.jp, Friday (23/4/2021).
In terms of power, the HR-V e: HEV has an electric motor with a power of 131 PS or the equivalent of 129.2 hp and 253 Nm of torque. The electric motor is synchronized with a 1,500 cc Atkinson engine with 106 PS or 104 hp and 127 Nm of torque. So that the total hybrid model has 126 PS of power.
Not only that, Honda also presents a hybrid HR-V model with three variants; e: HEV X, e: HEV Z, and e HEV PLaY. There is even a four-wheel drive option. Plus there are 3 choices of models driving Sport, Normal, and Econ.
This hybrid version is offered for the European market. The petrol variant – in other countries – is supported by a 1,500 cc DOHC i-VTEC engine which can supply 113 hp of power and a maximum torque of 142 Nm at 4,300 rpm engine speed.
Modification Package Options
Interestingly, even though it was just introduced, the new HR-V is already available in an accessory package on its exterior. This look is provided by Honda Access for the Honda Vezel with the Urban Style and Casual Style packages. Both accessories kits are provided to add to the aesthetics of the exterior design of the Honda HR-V as well as an alternative appearance if consumers don’t like the accessories package from Mugen which seems too sporty.
First, the front grille with hexagonal mesh inserts. Then there are the skirts on the front bumper which are wider and look more prominent. The sides are given a touch of chrome garnish. Additionally, there is a spoiler on the rear trunk door. In addition, there are additional decorations on the rear bumper and chrome coating on the exhaust holes.
The second package of accessories is actually the same as the first. The different is located on color finishing. The Urban Style type tends to use silver chrome accents while the Casual Style version has a slightly darker color, copper brown. A striking difference can also be seen in the rearview cover which is only available in the Casual Style accessory package.
Of course, the Honda Access product range for the HR-V is not only limited to body kits, there are also other accessories packages such as C-pillar decals, tailgate garnishes, emblems, fog lamp garnishes, aluminum wheels, door handle guards, number plate frames and mudguards.
Honda Access also provides additional packages for the interior. One of them is additional lights for the center console, footwell, door handle, and storage space at the door cup-holder. Consumers can also install side sills with the Vezel logo, sport-style acceleration pedals, fabric floor mats, seat covers, additional USB plugs in the second row and wireless smartphone charging service.
Honda Access also provides other additional packages to support the safety of Vezel / HR-V riders such as a front rear camera with a video recorder. In addition, there is an adjustable navigation system, Kenwood speakers and special chairs for toddlers or supporting equipment for animal lovers.
It seems that what Honda Access provides for Vezel customers in Japan is very complete with various choices depending on the wants and needs of consumers. It is hoped that this package option will also be available for other consumers outside Japan, especially in the U.S and U.K, which also has a large user base and Honda HR-V fans.
Mugen Package
It didn’t take long for this car to get a Mugen touch. Launching Indiacarnews, Mugen Motorsport has announced a line of aftermarket accessories from the latest generation Honda HR-V. With the body-kit and sports exhaust from Mugen, the appearance of the Honda HR-V is even more sporty and looks cool.
For changes, this SUV gets a new grille and headlamp. Then there is a line on the underbody that extends from the side to the rear. In addition, there is also an integrated roof spoiler, tailgate spoiler, rear bumper sticker and an ORVM cover. This line of accessories costs JPY 596,200 or $ 5,455.
To improve its performance, Mugen provides a new air filter and a special exhaust system. Interestingly, the exhaust used come from racing cars. The price itself is up to JPY 126,500 or $ 1,158.
Then Mugen also offers special 18-inch alloy wheels with a tag of JPY 50,600 or $ 463. In addition, customers can also buy the red carpet that has been provided. Mugen also offers a custom paint job to give the HR-V a dual-tone scheme. Customers can also add front grille garnishes, spoiler extensions and side skirt garnishes.
