2022 Honda HR-V [Australia]

 

The 2022 Honda HR-V has officially touched down on Australian shores before deliveries commence. Not to be confused with the unrelated North American 2023 HR-V, Australia’s 2022 HR-V that is identical to the European model as well, will be sold locally in two flavors, called Vi X and the e:HEV L. Prices, including all applicable on-road fees, start at AU$ 36,700 (US$ 25,203) for the Vi X and AU$ 45,000 (US$ 30,900) for the e:HEV L.

Powering the HR-V Vi X is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 119 hp at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. In Australia, the HR-V is considered a small SUV and as such, rivals the likes of the Toyota CH-R and Mazda CX-30. It matches up well with the C-HR with its 1.2-liter turbo delivering 114 hp and 185 Nm but has significantly less power than the entry-level 2.0-liter CX-30 with its 153 hp and 200 Nm. These two models are also cheaper, with the base Mazda CX-30 available from AU$ 33,691 (US$ 23,136) and the base C-HR starting at AU$ 35,081 (US$ 24,091).

 

A number of important features come standard with the HR-V Vi X. These include Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist System, Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, High Beam Support System, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Honda has also equipped the SUV with 19-inch wheels, privacy glass, a 9-inch infotainment screen, and its Agile Handling Assist System.

Topping out the range is the e:HEV L. This model pairs the standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor to produce a combined 129 hp and 253 Nm of torque. By comparison, the available Toyota CH-R GR Sport with its hybrid 1.8-liter delivers a combined 121 hp, although Toyota doesn’t publicize a combined torque figure.

 

A plethora of features come standard on the HR-V e:HEV L that are not available on the lesser model. These include a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, hands-free tailgate, auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto rain-sensing wipers, LED active cornering lights, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and an acoustic windshield.