Honda has launched the third-generation Honda HR-V in Indonesia and the Japanese automaker has also introduced the turbocharged ‘RS’ variant of the Honda HR-V in the market.
However, in India, Honda has been losing its market share in the Indian passenger car segment for quite some time. One of the reasons for this sales slump could be pointed out at the somewhat weak product lineup in the country.
Though the launch of the 5th generation Honda City helped boost sales and attract more customers into the showrooms across India, Honda is yet to get a stronghold in the Indian automotive market.
At present, Honda’s current product lineup in India consists of Honda Amaze sub-4m sedan, Honda Jazz hatchback, Honda WR-V sub-4m SUV, Honda City (4th Generation) sedan, and Honda City (5th Generation) sedan.
A model like Honda HR-V in India will significantly boost the sales of Honda cars in India as the model will be positioned among some of the better-selling models such as the MG Hector, Tata Harrier, Volkswagen Taigun, etc.
As mentioned, Honda introducing the third-generation Honda HR-V in Indonesia with the inclusion of the RS variant is a positive indication of a strong product lineup in that country.
Thanks to this strong product lineup, Honda has a strong foothold in the Indonesian automotive market.
Speaking about the Honda HR-V model in Indonesia, the 5-seater SUV is available in 4 trim levels and prices for the Honda HR-V in Indonesia starts from 355.9 million rupiahs (Rs 18.89 lakh).
Moreover, the Honda HR-V in Indonesia is available with two engine options, however, only the RS trim level gets the potent turbocharged 1.5-litre power unit and the rest of the trim levels use the 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated V-TEC powertrains.
In terms of engine specifications, the standard 1.5-litre V-TEC power unit produces 119.34bhp of peak power and 145Nm of torque, whereas the turbocharged 1.5-litre engine in the Honda HR-V produces a healthier 174.5bhp of peak power and 240Nm of peak torque. Apart from this, both engines come mated to a CVT gearbox as standard.
In contrast, the Honda HR-V launched in Thailand is powered by a much more fuel-efficient Hybrid powertrain consisting of 103.5bhp 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle engine and two electric motors.
This powertrain has a combined power output of 129.2bhp of peak power and 253Nm of peak torque. It will be really convenient for Indian consumers if Honda offers all the above engine options if it plans to offer HR-V in India.
In Indonesia, Honda HR-V is offered in 6 different exterior colour schemes – Lunar Silver Metallic, Meteoroid Grey Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Sand Khaki Pearl (dual tone) and Ignite Red Metallic (dual tone).
Thoughts About Honda HR-V & Honda HR-V RS
The launch of Honda HR-V will give Honda a much-needed sales boost in India and it will also give the Japanese brand a more premium image. In addition to this, if Honda launches the Honda HR-V with the more powerful turbocharged engine, it may become a favourite among enthusiasts.
Keyword: Honda HR-V Could Be A Successful Product In India: RS Version Introduced In Indonesia