A new higher-performance Honda HR-V Sport spec is being introduced for the updated 2019 model range, which goes on sale in December ahead of deliveries beginning in spring 2019.
The HR-V Sport is fitted with a 182hp 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine from the Civic hatch. It is offered with a six-speed manual gearbox or a CVT automatic.
Honda says it will reveal performance and fuel economy details nearer the car’s launch.
Interestingly, the manual version has a little more pulling power than the auto, and its peak power is delivered at 5,500rpm, rather than a revvier 6,000rpm. Presumably, the auto’s been capped so the gearbox doesn’t self-destruct.
The Honda HR-V Sport goes deeper than just a faster engine, though. Honda fits unique ‘Performance Damper’ suspension, which it says improves stability, reduces body roll and smooths out vibrations on rough surfaces.
The steering is also specific to the HR-V Sport, which uses a variable ratio system that’s crisp just off centre and smoother at bigger steering angles. Black-painted 18-inch alloys are standard too.
All 2019 model year Honda HR-V have tweaked styling outside and in, to which the Sport adds a front splitter, wheelarch mouldings, side skirts and a chunkier rear bumper. This bodykit is finished in black as are the door mirrors, and dual exhausts poke out the rear.
LED headlights are standard as well, while the Sport replaces the dark chrome front panel of the regular 2019 HR-V with a high-gloss black chrome insert.
Honda even fits bespoke sports seats for those in the front, with a more bolstered seat cushion and backrest. There’s a black rooflining too, just like you get on a Golf GTI – and, yes, a Honda Civic Type R.