Recently, Honda has launched the HR-V e:HEV variant, which is the HR-V’s hybrid trim and the first-ever Honda’s locally assembled hybrid car. Given its competitive price and market segment, it naturally invites comparison with the Toyota Corolla Cross’s base HEV trim. Both compact crossovers are similarly priced at Rs. 8,999,000 (ex-factory) and feature dual-motor hybrid powertrains, creating an ideal scenario for an insightful direct comparison. Each vehicle showcases the latest design language from its respective manufacturer, with promising superior efficiency and good practicality for a mid-size family.
Here’s the 1-1 direct comparison of both vehicles:
Engine and Performance
The Corolla Cross offers higher displacement but slightly lower output compared to the HR-V. The HR-V’s electric motor has significantly higher torque and horsepower, potentially offering stronger electric drive performance.
| Feature | Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV | Honda HR-V e:HEV |
| Engine Type | 1.8L 2ZR-FXE Hybrid | 1.5L i-VTEC Hybrid |
| Displacement (cc) | 1798 | 1498 |
| Engine Maximum Power | 97 HP @ 5200 rpm | *105 HP @ 6000-6400 rpm |
| Electric Motor Power | 71 HP | *129 HP |
| Engine Maximum Torque | 142 Nm @ 3600 rpm | Not Specified |
| Motor Maximum Torque | 163 Nm | Not Specified |
| Combined Torque | 205 Nm | 253 Nm |
Dimensions
The Corolla Cross is slightly larger overall, with increased height, width, and length, which may provide more interior space. However, the HR-V features better ground clearance, which is beneficial for bad road conditions.
| Feature | Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV | Honda HR-V e:HEV |
| Length (mm) | 4460 | *4347 |
| Width (mm) | 1825 | *1790 |
| Height (mm) | 1620 | *1590 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2640 | *2610 |
| Ground Clearance(mm) | 161 | *212 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 36 | *40 |
Interior Features
The biggest downside of the HR-V’s interior compared to the Cross is the climate control. The Cross has dual-zone climate control, while the HR-V only has single-zone, which is unusual since other cars in the same price range typically offer dual-zone.
| Feature | Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV | Honda HR-V e:HEV |
| Air Conditioning | Dual Zone Digital | Sigle Zone Digital |
| Multi-Information Display | 7″ | 7″ |
| Steering | Leather, Tilt & Telescopic | Leather, Tilt & Telescopic |
| Infotainment System | 7″ Display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto | *8″ Display with Honda Connect Support |
| Wireless Charger | Not Available | Available |
| Seats Fabric | Artificial Leather | Artificial Leather |
| Rear AC Vents | Available | Available |
Exterior Features
HR-V’s rims are an inch bigger than the Cross’s, rest is both same.
| Feature | Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV | Honda HR-V e:HEV |
| Headlamps | Projector LED | Projector LED |
| Fog Lamps | LED | LED |
| Sunroof | Not Available | Not Available |
| Wheel Size | 17″ Alloy | 18″ Alloy |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Not Available |
| Auto Wipers | Rain-Sensing | Rain-Sensing |
Safety Features
Here, the HR-V takes a clear lead. Although the Corolla Cross offers an additional driver’s knee airbag, the HR-V stands out because of Honda Sensing, Honda’s proprietary advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). This system includes multiple driving assistance features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, collision mitigation braking, and road departure mitigation, all of which are absent in the Corolla Cross.
| Feature | Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV | Honda HR-V e:HEV |
| Airbags | 7 Airbags | 6 Airbags |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | No |
| Rear Cross Traffic Alert | Yes | No |
| Blind Spot Monitor | Yes | No |
| Hill Descent Control (HDC) | No | Yes |
| Brake Override System | No | Yes |
| Walk Away Auto Lock | No | Yes |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | No | Yes |
| Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) | No | Yes |
| Road Departure Mitigation + Lane Departure Warning | No | Yes |
| Auto High-Beam (AHB) | No | Yes |
| Cruise Control | Simple Cruise Control | Adaptive Cruise Control |
| Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN) | No | Yes |
Both the Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 HEV and Honda HR-V e:HEV are hybrid compact crossovers from well-established Japanese automakers with strong reputations in Pakistan. While the Corolla Cross offers practicality and reliable daily usability, the HR-V stands out with advanced safety technologies through Honda Sensing. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences regarding performance, comfort, and the importance of modern safety and convenience features.
*Figures are approximate as Honda Pakistan has not released detailed specifications yet.
Ain’t Honda HR-V a sub-compact SUV segment
and Corolla cross a compact SUV segment, big mistake here