I am sure you know well about “HR-V.” The Honda HR-V is a B-segment crossover that sits under CR-V in Honda’s portfolio. HR-V is known by different names, including the famous Honda Vezel in Japan. Last year Honda released the all-new third-generation Vezel in Japan, and later the same model was launched with the HR-V name for Europe. The same vehicle has also been seen in Pakistan as a Japanese import.
Honda HR-V in America
Honda North America also offers the HR-V, and it used to be similar to JDM/ European model (exterior and interior), although with some technical differences. However, Honda North America has now (today) revealed the 3rd generation HR-V but it is only the name “HR-V,” which it will share with the overseas model. The American model is completely different inside and out and under the skin.
Difference Between Japanese & US HR-V
The 3rd gen HR-V (Europe) Vezel (Japan) is based on the 4th generation Honda Fit/ Jazz and the 7th generation Honda City. But the US model is based on the same platform as the 11th generation Civic, a global modular architecture that also helps in improved handling and driving dynamics. This makes the US HR-V almost 2.5-inch longer in wheelbase, 7-inch longer in length, and 2.5-inch wider comparing the European/Japanese HR-V/Vezel.
Basically, the American model is roomier and with larger footprint comparing the model from the other markets and approaching the size of the current 5th generation Honda CR-V. Keep in mind that the next generation CR-V is in the works and rumored to grow in size as well. Honda will be introducing this new HR-V as a C-segment.
Exterior of Honda HR-V
Anyways, on the exterior of the USDM HR-V, there is a new big grill (to some, it might look like something from Ford) and a departure from the current design language for the rest of the Honda lineup. Like Civic XI, new horizontal belt line on the front with an extended hood and a lower cowl for increased glass areas are visible on the front and sides. Then there are LED headlights and taillights. According to Honda, the HR-V has a stylish, sporty exterior that will appeal to young buyers.
Interior
Coming to the Interior, we can clearly see Civic XI’s influence. Similar venting but with some changes, and 7 or 9-inch infotainment screen, and a 7-inch partial digital cluster similar to Civic XI are also present in the new car.
This HR-V gets its own touches as far as the central console is concerned. The other salient features include a sunroof, wireless charger, wireless Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, power and heated driver & passenger seats, dual-zone climate control, 60:40 split rear seats, and an auto-dimming rear view mirror.
Power in Honda HR-V
As mentioned earlier, it is only the name it shares with the European or Japanese model, which is further confirmed when you see power figures. The USDM HR-V is powered by a 2L naturally aspirated engine, making 158hp at 6500 RPMs and 187Nm at 4200 RPMs. This same engine is in two base variants of USDM Civic XI.
Like Civic, it uses the CVT transmission, and FWD is standard, although an AWD is also available in combination with a Snow Mode. As per Honda, it is “Real-Time AWD with Intelligent Control,” and it is tuned to send more power to the rear wheel for more traction and stability when required. Furthermore, three driving modes ECON/Normal/Sport/, are also available.
The company has installed MacPherson Strut Suspension at front and Multi-Link Suspension at the rear. Meanwhile, Hill descent control is also available, and the driver can select a speed between 2 to 12mph using the brake or accelerator pedal. Once the pedal is released, the vehicle maintains the set speed, so the driver can concentrate on steering as long as the Hill Descent control is active.
Safety Features
As for safety, 10 airbags come standard, and then there is Honda Sensing with active safety features, including the Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR).
Lastly, there is a little more confusion from Honda with regard to car’s name. As per reports, the US HR-V, as discussed earlier, will also be sold in Europe, China, and some other markets in the near future, but it will be named “ZR-V.” It will probably carry a different engine in Europe, i.e., 1.5T of Civic XI. There is also a possibility for a 1.6L Diesel and 1.5L HEV in other markets but we will know more about ZR-V later this year.
Price of Honda HR-V
US pricing starts at $24,895 for base LX FWD while fully loaded AWD touches $30,195. The model will be for sale soon across 1070 independent dealerships in the United States.
So, which HR-V will you choose? European/ JDM or a USDM version? Share with us in the comments section.
