Just a few minutes ago, we brought you the test drive of the Honda HR-V with the 120 hp diesel engine here at Actualidad Motor. We said it was a car well worth considering for those looking for a B-segment crossover with ample cargo space and interior room, as well as for those who appreciate a more distinctive design.
We mentioned that this model, which has been on the market for several years, needed a facelift to improve some aesthetic and technological aspects if it wanted to remain competitive. Today, the Japanese brand released the first information and images of that facelift, confirming that its market launch is scheduled for next October , alongside the new Honda CR-V that we tested a few weeks ago at its European launch.
exterior changes
The Japanese firm has opted not to drastically alter the exterior aesthetics, limiting these changes to a few details to modernize it and give it a touch of distinction compared to the current model. Thus, at the front, we find a new chrome grille replacing the gloss black plastic. The headlights can be fully LED , also contributing to the design, while the bumper has been redesigned, and the lower fog lights have also been updated.
Meanwhile, the side profile features a new aesthetic with 17-inch wheels for the higher trim levels and chrome front door handles, while the rear door handles remain hidden in the rear windows. At the rear, there are new, darker taillight housings and a chrome trim piece that visually connects them.
Eight colors for the bodywork, one of them totally new
Honda announces the arrival of a new blue exterior color called " Midnight Blue Beam Metallic ," which is the color used on the vehicle pictured here. In total, the new Honda HR-V will be available in eight exterior colors: one solid, two pearlescent, and the rest metallic.
A more sophisticated and better insulated interior
Although the Japanese brand has not yet released images of the new model's interior, they tell us that it will continue to feature Honda's Magic Seats system , offering maximum versatility and space by easily folding down the rear seats. They also state that the front seats have been redesigned , with changes to the backrest and cushion, to provide better support and back comfort. The upholstery has also been improved, with higher quality materials as standard.
On the other hand, the Honda HR-V benefits from improved sound insulation . Honda states that they have reduced interior noise by increasing the amount of sound-insulating material throughout the vehicle, particularly in the front bulkhead, trunk structure, wheel wells, and door panels. It also features, as a new addition, low-frequency noise cancellation technology through the speakers.
At its launch it will only be available with a gasoline engine
At launch, it will only be available with a gasoline engine, and it hasn't been confirmed whether a diesel option will be offered later. This gasoline engine is the naturally aspirated 1.5 i-VTEC , which produces 130 hp and 155 Nm of torque (at 4.600 rpm). Although this car is homologated according to the new WLTP regulations, the manufacturer provides fuel consumption figures based on the NEDC cycle, with a combined figure of 5,3 l/100 km.
This engine, which can be paired with either a manual or a CVT automatic transmission , has been improved to minimize internal friction and wear , thus increasing thermal efficiency. With a manual transmission, the Honda HR-V can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10,7 seconds, taking half a second longer with the automatic transmission.
