Honda has finally pulled the wraps off the North American HR-V—a bigger, more powerful compact crossover which will form the basis of the global ZR-V coming later in the year.
Unlike the Vezel-based HR-V that markets such as the Philippines get, the U.S. HR-V is based off the 11th generation Civic platform. This means, it features front MacPherson Struts and independent Multi-Links out back. Moreover, it is larger (overall length has grown by 238 mm) with a 2,654-mm wheelbase and wider tracks (51 mm at the front, 63 mm at the back).
For now, this regional HR-V is powered by a normally-aspirated 2.0-liter 4-cylinder motor with 158 horsepower and 187 Nm of torque. It’s expected to be joined by the turbocharged 1.5-liter and even a dual-motor hybrid at a later time. The sole gearbox is a CVT with built-in “step-shift” programming which simulates gear changes when accelerating at heavy throttle loads.
In a Honda SUV first, the HR-V gets Hill Descent Control as standard. The brand’s trademark Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control is an available option.
Design-wise, the HR-V is a departure from typical Honda aesthetics with its large grille flanked by wideset LED headlights. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard, but higher trim variants get gloss black exterior accents.
Inside, it continues with Honda’s “Simplicity and Something” design direction. Clearly inspired by the all-new Civic, the HR-V has the same honeycomb mesh accent that stretches from door to door. Together with the minimum cutlines, it reduces visual distractions. The seats, fitted with a body stabilizing design reduces fatigue. The driver-focused technology, meanwhile, is headlined by the large 9-inch infotainment display, while the driver gets a 7-inch LCD instrument cluster.
Similar to the global version, the HR-V gets the new Honda Sensing system. Using a single-camera system with a wide field of view, it can recognize objects such as vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and more. In addition, blind spot indicators are an available feature for the first time.
The North American HR-V goes on sale in the U.S. in the next couple of months, while for the rest of the world, it’ll get the ZR-V starting at the later part of the year.
it's larger than the HRV in our markets, also tbh I kinda prefer the global version hehehe...
ReplyDeleteThe one we have looks so much better imo
ReplyDeletestyling looks bland
ReplyDeleteOh look! Its the fuckin ford escape we never had!
ReplyDeleteI think the ZR-V will be assembled in Thailand or Indonesia in the foreseeable future.
ReplyDeleteWaiting for d arrival of hrv RS
ReplyDeleteWatchu talkin about fool. I already saw some HRV RS on the road during May.
DeleteI think you mean the HR-V V Turbo? We still don't have the RS variant locally.
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