Honda HR-V 2021 See The Ins And Outs Of The All-New Honda HR-V’s Design
16After last month’s official unveiling, alongside the Japan-spec Vezel, Honda has released new images and videos of the new-gen HR-V e:HEV for Europe, with emphasis on its design characteristics.
The biggest change over is predecessor represents the crossover coupe body that follows one of the industry’s latest trends.
The model has a bigger grille up front with horizontal slats, a cleaner-looking bumper, LED headlights that protrude into the fenders, more arched tailgate and slim taillights joined together by an LED strip. The rear license plate holder was repositioned and above it, the lights, reversing camera and tailgate handle are integrated into one unit. The black plastic cladding on the lower parts of the body is more pronounced compared to its predecessor.
For the new HR-V, Honda has kept the center-mounted fuel tank layout that improves cabin space. The automaker claims that four adults can travel in “maximum comfort”, and despite being about as big as the old HR-V, the 2021 subcompact crossover offers more shoulder space and legroom. Moreover, the reclining rear seats fold flat, enabling owners to haul different cargo, including bicycles.
“We designed the all-new hybrid HR-V to reflect the exacting values and needs of modern consumers and appeal to a new generation of car owners”, said Kojiro Okabe, Honda’s Large Project Leader. “They demand purpose and innovation from the products they interact with. By cleverly applying Honda’s latest technologies and design ethos, we have created a car that will provide the spaciousness, connectivity, reliability and versatility required to fully support and enhance their everyday lives.”
Set to launch at the end of the year, the Euro-spec HR-V e:HEV will have a two-motor petrol hybrid powertrain, but details have yet to be announced. Nonetheless, it is believed to use either the same 1.5-liter four-pot as the Jazz or the 2.0-liter mill from the CR-V.
Japan’s Vezel, on the other hand, has a 1.5-liter double-overhead-cam i-VTEC petrol engine, coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and a hybrid with “real-time AWD”.
North America’s new HR-V, which might launch for the 2022 MY, will differ from the global models, as it was “designed to meet the distinct needs of U.S. customers”, Honda has previously said.