Honda has released new images and videos of the new-gen HR-V e:HEV for Europe, with emphasis on its design characteristics. The biggest change over is predecessor represents the crossover coupe body that follows one of the industry’s latest trends.
The model has a bigger grille up front
with horizontal slats, a cleaner-looking bumper, LED headlights that protrude
into the fenders, more arched tailgate and slim taillights joined together by
an LED strip. The rear license plate holder was repositioned and above it, the
lights, reversing camera and tailgate handle are integrated into one unit. The
black plastic cladding on the lower parts of the body is more pronounced
compared to its predecessor.
For the new HR-V, Honda has kept the
center-mounted fuel tank layout that improves cabin space. The automaker claims
that four adults can travel in “maximum comfort”, and despite being about as
big as the old HR-V, the 2021 subcompact crossover offers more shoulder space
and legroom. Moreover, the reclining rear seats fold flat, enabling owners to
haul different cargo, including bicycles.
Set to launch at the end of the year, the
Euro-spec HR-V e:HEV will have a two-motor petrol hybrid powertrain, but
details have yet to be announced. Nonetheless, it is believed to use either the
same 1.5-liter four-pot as the Jazz or the 2.0-liter mill from the CR-V.
Japan’s Vezel, has a
1.5-liter double-overhead-cam i-VTEC petrol engine, coupled to a continuously
variable transmission (CVT), and a hybrid with “real-time AWD”. North America’s
new HR-V, which might launch for the 2022 MY, will differ from the global
models, as it was “designed to meet the distinct needs of U.S. customers”,
Honda has previously said.
