All-new Honda HR-V now on sale

Honda recently introduced the next generation of its popular HR-V in South Africa. This all-new model offers exceptional space, comfort and utility as well as a host of advanced safety and technology equipment, all packaged in a bold yet sleek package. 

All-new design

The new HR-V has been completely redesigned from the ground up to deliver on style and performance but also to fit the needs of its growing customer base.

A contemporary coupe-SUV style body represents a sleek and dynamic design while offering exceptional levels of interior space. The HR-V was designed with the same simple, clean, modern design philosophy utilised on popular models like the Fit and further amplifies the brand’s reputation for quality, functionality and practicality.

Comfort models feature 17-inch black and diamond cut wheels, which compliment the black cladding and black grille. Executive model are fitted with 18-inch alloys finished in gunmetal black.

Inside story

The spacious interior offers a premium SUV feel thanks to contemporary fabrics and soft touch materials. A modern, minimalistic aesthetic is created by a horizontal sweep of the instrument panel as well as clean lines and surfaces throughout. A new air diffusion system flows from unique L-shaped vents to create a curtain of fresh air beside and above passengers.

Despite similar exterior dimensions to the previous model, the new HR-V boasts improved front leg and shoulder room, while rear legroom has increased by 35mm. The exceptionally versatile rear Magic Seat set-up, that offers both fold-flat or flip-up seat flexibility, has been retained. Loading convenience has been enhanced by a hands-free power tailgate with walk away close function.

A large centre cubby is available to carry large and small items and there are two USB charging sockets fitted in the front and two at the rear as well as a wireless charging pad in the centre console. Executive models are fitted with a distinctive panoramic glass roof that features Low-E glass technology to reduce the intensity of infrared, ultraviolet and solar heat rays entering the cabin by 75 percent.

An eight-inch touch screen audio display has been neatly integrated into the instrument panel on all models and offers Apple CarPlay and Android auto as well as Bluetooth and steering wheel controls. Both models feature a 4.2-inch TFT LCD instrument binnacle and on Executive models it is also used to display a variety of driver assistance information.

Updated underpinnings

Honda’s engineers reviewed the underpinnings of the HR-V holistically in order to maximise both driver enjoyment and comfort and it now features a more rigid body structure as well as extensive suspension, steering and braking enhancements. Honda’s Agile Handling Assist further improves dynamic stability, such as fast steering inputs or emergency avoidance manoeuvres. The system works in conjunction with the Vehicle Stability Assist to lightly apply the brakes of the inner wheels when the steering is turned, increasing vehicle responsiveness and stability and creating a more stable and predictable driving experience. Electronic braking systems include Vehicle Stability Assist, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist and Automatic Brake Hold.

Under the bonnet

The new HR-V is fitted with Honda’s 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine that offers 89kW at 6600rpm and 145Nm at 4300rpm while using just 6,0 litres per 100km. The HR-V is available exclusively with a CVT gearbox.

The latest in safety technology

The HR-V is built around Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure, which forms the foundation for excellent passive safety performance by incorporating a network of structural elements that distribute crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, thus reducing their transfer to the passenger compartment. In addition the HR-V is fitted with front, side and curtain SRS airbags in Executive trim and a total of four airbags in Comfort guise.

Honda Sensing active safety technology, available on the Executive model, offers a wide range of driver assistance features including Collision Mitigation Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Road Departure Mitigation and Auto High Beam.

Peace of mind

The HR-V is available in Comfort and Executive specification and both models are sold with a five-year/200 000km warranty and a four-year/60 000km service plan.