Honda launches all-new HR-V subcompact crossover


Stunning style and design to heighten senses

Honda hopes to “Heighten your Senses” with the arrival of its latest subcompact crossover, the all-new HR-V. The HR-V was developed with the aim of becoming a subcompact crossover that combines functionality, safety and advanced features, sophisticated design and superior driving experience, based on three core values: to be pleasurable, to imbibe confidence through reliability, and aesthetics that are in style.

Stunning new exterior

The all-new HR-V features an aggressive new look with sporty details. The most distinctive change is up front, with its newly shaped headlights and foglamps that house standard LEDs and features Daytime Running Lights (DRLs). For the grille, the V Turbo variant is fitted with a mesh type grille, while the S variant comes with a black bar-type grille. On the side, there’s a sharp body line along with a coupe-like profile made of a sloping roofline and rear door handles integrated into the C-pillar. Both variants come with a shark fin antenna and 17-inch alloys wrapped 215/60 tires. The side is then topped off with a good amount of black cladding for that added sportiness. Behind, is an LED tail light bar stetching across the entire rear. Both trims have contrasting rear bumpers, while a dual tailpipe layout with finishers is available on the V Turbo variant.

Functional interior

Inside, the HR-V was built with a human-centric cabin, designed with good ergonomics and quality materials. The interior layout goes by Honda's 'man maximum-machine minimum' principle, where the purpose of technology and design is to serve the needs of the driver and passengers. Among the convenience features are an eight-inch touchscreen display audio paired with a six-speaker sound system. The infotainment system supports various multimedia functions such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which gives the driver access to several apps.

Other creature comforts include a one-push start system, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, and single-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents and the new air diffusion system which evenly distributes the natural breeze to all occupants throughout the cabin. Also, for better convenience, both trims of the Honda HR-V come standard with a remote engine start function, allowing the driver to start the engine with just a press of a button from the key fob.

Leather upholstery is exclusive on the V Turbo, whereas the S variant gets fabric seats. As for the instrument cluster where important vehicle details are projected, the V Turbo features a seven-inch digital display while the S variant comes with a 4.2-inch digital display.

Like other Honda vehicles, the HR-V also boasts its flexible interior space. Cargo loading is made more fun and easier all thanks to its ULT seats which are composed of 3 adjustable modes. Utility Mode allows the two rear seats to be folded to increase cargo space. Long Mode allows the front and rear passenger side seats to fold for a lengthy space. Tall Mode allows the rear seats to be tipped-up for more vertical space.

The choice of power

Powering the HR-V is two engine options. The S variant gets a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine, producing 121-PS and 145-Nm of torque. The V Turbo, on the other hand, features a 1.5-liter VTEC Turbo engine, making it the first-ever turbo-powered HR-V. It puts out a mighty 177-PS and 240-Nm of torque. Both mills are then paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for an efficient and refined driving experience.

To suit varying driving situations, there are also three distinct driving modes to adjust driving characteristics depending on the driver’s needs. ECON Mode optimizes engine operation to maximize fuel efficiency. Normal Mode is used for general and daily driving. Sport Mode (V Turbo only) allows the engine to accelerate more readily for more fun and enjoyment when driving.

Leading in safety

Honda aims to meet its global goal to realize zero traffic collision fatalities by 2050. Integral to this is the HR-V, which now comes standard with a number of safety features. These are Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS); Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF); Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS); Road Departure Mitigation System with Lane Departure Warning (RDM with LDW); Auto High-Beam (AHB); and Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN).

Like the 11th generation Civic, the HR-V also features the new Honda SENSING system which uses a camera with a wider field of view combined with improved software. The updated safety tech achieves better vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, and road marking recognition.

Aside from its state-of-the-art safety features the HR-V also comes standard with smart keyless entry, security alarm and immobilizer, All Passenger seatbelt reminder, front and side airbags, speed-sensing door locks, ISOFIX child seat anchors, rear seat reminder, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC), Hill-Start Assist (HSA), and many more.

Moreover, the HR-V is built with a G-force Control (G-CON) body structure which enhances impact absorption for the added protection of passengers in the event a collision occurs.

The All-New Honda HR-V is now available at all 37 Honda Cars dealerships nationwide. It’s offered in  and comes in four (4) colors — Ignite Red Metallic; Platinum White Pearl (additional P20,000); Premium Opal White Silver Pearl (V Turbo only, additional P20,000); and Meteoroid Gray Metallic.

Pricing starts at P1,250,000 for the HR-V S variant and P1,598,000 for the range-topping V Turbo. Head on to HCPI’s VIRTUAL SHOWROOM at www.hondaphil.com to know more about the All-New Honda HR-V.