The Honda HR-V compact SUV has undergone a mid-life revamp, with the emphasis on more technology and quality upgrades.
On the roads from October, the car will go on sale with a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 130hp and 155Nm of torque. This has been improved thanks to measures to lower friction between the pistons and cylinder bores, and a friction-reducing coating on the timing chain to cut long-term wear and improve the efficiency of the engine.
Honda quotes a 10.2-second 0-62mph for the 1.5 HR-V with a six-speed manual gearbox, 10.9 seconds with the optional CVT automatic. Best combined cycle fuel economy (under the new WLTP measuring system) is 53.2mpg with CO2 emissions from 121g/km.
A more potent turbo version of the 1.5-litre engine and a 1.6-litre diesel will be added to the HR-V range in 2019.
Quieter interior
Inside, the Honda HR-V has gained more sound insulation, while some versions will be supplied with active noise cancellation (ANC). This reduces low-frequency noise in the interior by monitoring for such noises through two microphones, and then cancelling them out with ‘reverse phase’ audio signals through the speakers.
The front seats have been redesigned to provide more support, especially to the back, and covered in higher quality fabric. Top-line versions include a full-leather interior.
Exterior styling changes include a more substantial version of the Honda ‘Solid Wing Face’ graphic above the grille, deeper air intakes with built-in circular fog lights, and redesigned projector lens headlamps with LED daytime running lights.
There are also minor changes at the rear, while higher-specification models gain a different finish to the exhaust tailpipe and a new 17-inch alloy wheel design.
Honda has yet to reveal any price changes to the HR-V – prices and more detailed specifications will be revealed closer to the car’s launch.
Keyword: Tech and quality upgrade for Honda HR-V