The all-new Honda HR-V has been revealed in Japan with a bold, futuristic new look and an all-hybrid range of engines.
Honda is promising class-leading space, better infotainment and “significantly improved comfort levels”.
The small SUV rival to the Nissan Juke and Ford Puma will go on sale in Europe towards the end of 2021.
It’s the distinctive styling that is the new HR-V’s biggest talking point. Like the futuristic Honda e electric car, the look is clean, minimalist and simple.
The front end is pure, with a semi-closed grille panel, and styling details on the side have been paired right back (even the rear doorhandles are hidden).
At the rear, there are slim 3D-effect tail lamps, and contrast roof colours are available. Honda will also offer a huge panoramic glass roof.
Honda calls it a “seamless, clean, modern design philosophy… which follows the key concepts of function and beauty”.
Inside, it again follows the Honda e and latest Jazz (from which it shares underpinnings).
The premium-look dashboard is similarly clean, with tactile, upmarket detailing and a central infotainment screen that includes Apple CarPlay.
There’s a clever new “air diffusion system” for the climate control that creates a curtain of fresh air behind and above passengers from L-shaped vents located at either side of the dashboard.
Smart packaging of major components – including a centrally-located fuel tank – means the Honda Magic seats can be retained. These both fold-flat and flip-up.
The claim of class-leading interior space means “four adults are able to sit in maximum comfort”.
Honda HR-V hybrid
Honda has also confirmed the new HR-V will have an all-hybrid range of electrified engines, with the powertrains to be branded e:HEV.
The new HR-V will use the same two-motor hybrid set-up as the Jazz supermini. This clever system sees the petrol engine drive a generator, not the wheels. It sends electricity to another drive motor, which means it doesn’t even need a traditional gearbox.
The system is designed to mimic an EV whenever it can, boosting engine-off mode and cutting fuel consumption.
The arrival of the new car in the UK towards the end of 2021, won’t come too soon for Honda retailers.
The current model has now been withdrawn from sale after production ended – leaving Honda with just four new cars in its range: Jazz, Honda e, CR-V and Civic.
Production of the Civic at the Swindon factory ends in summer 2021, although the car is expected to remain on sale until well into 2022 ahead of an all-new model arriving.
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