Honda has released more details on the new 2022 HR-V, which will be available exclusively with a hybrid powertrain in Europe. The all-new Honda HR-V e:HEV is powered by a combination of a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine and two electric motors, for a combined output of 129 HP and 253 Nm of torque. It’s basically a more powerful version of the hybrid powertrain found in the smaller Jazz, which shares the same architecture with the new HR-V.
The hybrid powertrain of the new Honda
HR-V comes with three main drive modes – Sport, Normal, and Econ- while there’s
also an additional ‘B’ mode that can be selected via the gear selector for
stronger regenerative braking. Honda says that the new hybrid HR-V can pull off
in its pure EV mode, switching to the petrol engine seamlessly when driving at
higher, more constant speeds, like when you are on the highway.
The new underpinnings of the 2022 Honda
HR-V allow for a roomier interior with the company’s trademark practical
solutions still present; in addition to the 35mm increase in rear legroom, the
new Honda HR-V also features the rear Magic Seat layout, allowing both
fold-flat, and flip-up seat functions. The platform allowed Honda to mount the
fuel tank on the center, which when combined with the clever packaging of the
hybrid components, give the HR-V a very spacious cabin despite the
coupe-inspired roofline.
The infotainment system uses a 9-inch
touchscreen display and features a simplified and fully customizable interface
for easier access. In addition, the system is also faster in its responses
compared to the previous iteration and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and
wired Android Auto. The instrument binnacle also hosts a 7-inch display showing
information on the vehicle’s driver-assistance systems.
Speaking of which, the 2022 Honda HR-V
features the Honda Sensing suite of systems, which in this version benefits
from a new wider, higher-definition monocular front camera and high-speed image
processing chips, making it better than the previous camera and radar sensor
combination. The latest Honda Sensing in the HR-V features a new adaptive
cruise control that monitors the steering angle and lateral G-force and comes
with a low-speed follow function and brake control. Systems like Blind Spot Information, Cross
Traffic Monitor, and Hill Descent Control are also included.
Honda will launch the new HR-V e:HEV in
Europe in late 2021, with pricing details to be announced closer to its market
debut.
