Honda HR-V [AU]
The all-new Honda HR-V delivers a unique and responsive driving experience, with exceptional efficiency delivered by Honda's powerful and efficient two-motor e:HEV powertrain - available for the first time on a HR-V. The next-generation of the Honda's popular compact SUV offers outstanding space, comfort and utility, as well as advanced safety and technology features, all within a bold and sleek coupe-inspired form.
When reimagining the HR-V, Honda set out to create a car with a desirable blend of stand-out design, exceptional efficiency and ultimate usability. Conceived to meet the exacting needs of modern consumers, the new model achieves a rare balance of premium SUV styling and exceptional spaciousness, with compact dimensions and easy entry and exit for passengers.
The third generation of Honda's small SUV is also the latest model in the line-up to wear the e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) badge, representing the next step in the Honda Australia's commitment to introduce hybrid variants of each vehicle line with the arrival of every full model change.
The new-generation Honda HR-V is the culmination of an extensive review of modern consumer attitudes. Having evaluated how today's active, connected population identifies and selects high value products, Honda developed the HR-V not only as an all-new compact SUV, but as a consumer product that must appeal through desirability, functionality and usability.
"We carried out group discussions with people of varying backgrounds, from many fields of expertise and across all ages and genders," said Yoshitomo Ihashi, HR-V Large Project Leader. "This has helped us add elements which will bring fun and joy to all passengers. We have sought to augment, not repress people's individuality and create a car that enables occupants to enjoy their lifestyles."
Applying the mantra 'Amp up your life', Honda engineers focused on enabling active lifestyles throughout every stage of the new HR-V's development. The objective was to widen the possibilities of what customers can do with the car to support and 'amplify' their everyday lives.
The result is a contemporary coupe-SUV body that appeals through the simplicity of its design, while its exceptionally spacious and versatile interior is more user-oriented and comfortable to sit in than ever. The all-new HR-V also achieves a desirable yet rare combination of premium SUV styling and exceptional space efficiency. It successfully extends the Honda brand's reputation for quality, functionality and practicality, and presents it with an individual and fun style, all within a compact package.
This compelling combination owes much to Honda's compact, integrated powertrain technology and the centre fuel tank layout. The result is occupant space comparable to larger models, as well as unrivalled flexibility thanks to the versatile Magic Seats that offer both 'fold-flat' or 'flip-up' options, depending on the cargo space required.
As with the exterior, the spacious interior has a solid, premium SUV feel, but with contemporary fabrics and soft-touch materials. The modern, minimalist aesthetic is created by the horizontal sweep of the instrument panel and uncluttered lines and surfaces throughout. The feeling of airiness and space is elevated by a new air diffusion system that creates a curtain of fresh air beside and above passengers, flowing from unique L-shaped vents positioned in the top corners of the dashboard.
Intuitive and seamless in-car connectivity features, which introduce a new level of technology to Honda's small segment SUV, can be accessed via touchscreen or via voice activation.
Featuring a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features and driver aids, the new Honda HR-V is fitted with active and passive Honda safety technologies designed to make driving both easier and safer.
e:HEV powertrain delivers optimal mix of efficiency and performance
The all-new HR-V is available with Honda's advanced e:HEV hybrid powertrain, giving the popular compact SUV the perfect blend of efficiency and performance. e:HEV has won acclaim in Europe for combining strong performance with high levels of real-world efficiency and refinement. With no need to plug-in and charge, the HR-V is suitable for every driving situation, combining the responsive performance and efficiency of an electric vehicle with the usability of conventionally powered cars.
The e:HEV powertrain consists of two compact, powerful electric motors that work alongside an Atkinson-cycle 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine, a lithium-ion battery and an innovative fixed-gear transmission coupled to a power control unit. The system benefits from advancements made over 20 years of hybrid development in Honda road cars and in Formula 1®.
The e:HEV system in the HR-V is more compact than in the Jazz and has a higher degree of energy density, which enables it to generate greater torque. The number of cells in the battery has increased by 25 per cent, allowing greater storage and deployment of electric power compared to Jazz.
The power control unit (PCU) has been downsized and integrated into the engine compartment, and is water cooled instead of air cooled, for improved heat management. The gear ratio between the electric motor and wheels has also been lowered, which further improves the dynamic performance of new HR-V.
The effect is an effortless and comfortable journey, whether travelling through urban areas or cruising at high speed on motorways. For its installation in the new HR-V, the e:HEV powertrain delivers total outputs of 96 kW of power and 253 Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption rating of 4.3 litres per 100 km for the ADR 81/02 combined test result and CO2 emissions of 98 grams per km.
What sets the e:HEV system apart is how its three drive modes seamlessly interchange to ensure optimum performance of each component in both urban and motorway driving. The intelligent Electronic Control Unit automatically, and constantly, cycles between Electric Drive, Hybrid Drive or Engine Drive depending on which is the most fuel-efficient drive mode at that specific driving situation.
When driving at a constant high-speed, such as on the highway, the system operates on engine drive as that is the most efficient for that scenario. If further acceleration is required, such as when overtaking, the car will switch to hybrid drive for that additional performance boost. Additionally, when in Hybrid Drive, power from the petrol engine-driven generator can be diverted to recharge the battery, offering additional efficiency benefits.
'Sport' mode can be activated via the drive selector, enabling even sharper throttle response, whilst 'Econ' mode adjusts the air conditioning system and throttle response for an emphasis on fuel efficiency. In addition to 'Normal' mode, where the car is best balanced between both worlds, drivers can switch across all driving modes at the toggle of a switch.
For an increased EV-like experience, drivers can also select B-range from the transmission, which offers selectable levels of energy recovery when coasting or braking. The level of energy recovery and the resulting strength of the deceleration effect can be substantially increased over the regular D-range, by using the paddles behind the steering wheel.
The transfer between these drive modes - including the start of the engine to generate electric power - is virtually unnoticeable to the occupants. Rather than using a conventional power-split system with a planetary gearbox, which causes high levels of friction, the fixed-gear transmission creates much less friction, ultimately leading to less energy consumption when driving purely electric.
Crucially, Honda's highly efficient fixed-gear system also achieves a higher proportion of accumulated electric drive time when in cities than other hybrids on sale today.
Using engineering expertise from its motorsport team, Honda's race-winning Formula 1 Hybrid Power Unit programme has inspired the technology in the e:HEV hybrid system to deliver unrivalled levels of energy efficiency on the road. As a result, the new Honda HR-V e:HEV L offers exceptional efficiency and power output in a wide range of driving conditions.
The original 1999 Insight established Honda as a world leader in hybrid technology - it introduced the brand's Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) system, which relied mainly on the engine and called upon electric motor assistance and brake energy recuperation to enhance acceleration and reduce fuel consumption.
Honda has continued to develop its hybrid technology and the advanced two-motor e:HEV system is now used locally in Accord and the all-new HR-V in Australia, and is set to be added to the 11th-generation Civic later this year.
The Vi X grade in the all-new HR-V line-up is powered by an efficient 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC four-cylinder port-injection engine, paired with a low-friction technology Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) featuring step-up shift control during acceleration and brake-operated step-down shift control to provide light and safe deceleration.
The DOHC i-VTEC system enhances the effect of VTEC by adding Variable Timing Control (VTC). VTC is a hydraulically operated system that controls the timing of the chain-driven intake camshaft, advancing or retarding it during the intake cycle.
During normal operation, intake camshaft timing is retarded at low-rpm operation to help provide more stable idling while at the same time reducing exhaust emissions. As rpm and engine load increase, the intake camshaft is slightly rotated; this advances the timing on the primary intake valve so that it opens sooner, for better cylinder filling.
At higher engine speeds, both intake valves are opened to increase air/fuel flow, sometimes while the exhaust valves are still open; this valve overlap uses some of the suction of the escaping exhaust gases to help draw more air and fuel through the intake valves into the cylinder. The result is an engine that strikes a good balance between fuel efficiency and performance.
The 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine produces 89 kW of power and 145 Nm of torque, with a fuel consumption rating of 5.8 L/100km for the ADR 81/02 combined test result and CO2 emissions of 133 g/km.
Premium SUV styling meets Honda's modern design philosophy
When designing and developing the latest generation HR-V, Honda engineers completely reimagined the popular small SUV from the ground up. Honda's research found that modern consumers choose products not only on the basis of competent performance or appealing aesthetics, but also on how it integrates with their lives and whether the product fulfils their individual requirements.
As a result, the new-generation HR-V has a contemporary coupe-SUV body that achieves a desirable, yet rare, combination of premium and dynamic design, with exceptional space efficiency. It embodies Honda's new simple, clean, modern design philosophy already seen in recent new models, such as the latest generation Civic, and successfully extends the brand's reputation for quality, functionality and practicality.
Defined by the same key design concepts of function and beauty, the compact coupe-inspired shape is familiar yet exciting in appearance, with a playful character and confident SUV stance. Its sleek silhouette is achieved by increasing road clearance to 195mm - close to that of a full-scale AWD vehicle - and reducing the roof height by 15mm compared to the previous model.
Increasing the size of the standard-fit wheels to 18 inches creates a stronger, more purposeful ratio of body height versus tyre diameter that is seen on many premium-brand SUVs. Proportionally, by reducing the front overhang by 20mm and with 20mm added to the rear overhang, the rugged and robust SUV stance is further reinforced, providing a level of solidity to the overall aesthetic that modern customers desire.
The forward-orientated character lines and smooth surfaces of the new HR-V create a sense of energetic spirit and dynamism. The exterior features have been incorporated into the body forms with the headlights, unique body-coloured grille and distinctive lower diamond grille seamlessly integrated within the nose and front quarter panels, giving it a more sculpted appearance and creating a sleek, bold and defined expression.
The body sides present a contemporary, uncluttered aesthetic, with a crisp horizontal shoulder line running from the rear light cluster to the front headlights, generating a sense of forward momentum. The raked A-pillar and appearance of an elongated bonnet create a premium look and visually move the cabin volume rearwards to further accentuate the sleek coupe-like proportions.
At the rear, the desire to achieve a combination of utility and aesthetic harmony is evident in the simple, elegant tailgate design, which neatly integrates the opening handle. The wide and tall aperture, low entry point and flat cargo floor all facilitate easy loading access, despite the coupe-inspired roofline.
Aerodynamic efficiency is achieved through the application of an air curtain slit at the front bumper, discreet lips at the rear side-sills and the sleek rear light bar shape, which have all been individually shaped to help to reduce air turbulence. Aided by the rear side-spoiler that reduces turbulence behind the vehicle without spoiling the sleek, clean design.
In pursuit of a more elegant appearance and to ensure that the exterior looks beautiful, even close up, the designers paid great attention to the finer details. For example, the bonnet shut line with the front guards, seamlessly continues into the shoulder line for a mature, coherent appearance. These small design aspects ensure that the clean surfaces are not interrupted by unnecessary or unwanted shadows.
This attention to detail is also apparent where the licence plate lights, tailgate handle and rear camera are integrated within the three-dimensional rear panel. This contributes to the 'clean' styling approach and is consistent with that of other recent Honda models, where the pursuit of simplicity is increasingly evident.
The new Honda HR-V will be available with a choice of contemporary exterior paint colours. Three pearlescent colours include the all-new Premium Opal - a dynamic paint colour that can respond to the light and shift between white and silver hues - along with Platinum White and Crystal Black, which have been carried across to the new model. The two metallic paint colours are Meteoroid Grey and the lustrous Premium Crystal Red, which was introduced on the 11th-generation Civic in late 2021.
Clever packaging for class-leading interior comfort and usability
To reflect the values, needs and expectations of modern consumers, Honda engineers and designers conceived a new proposition for the interior of the next-generation hybrid HR-V.
By incorporating Honda's 'Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum' (M/M) development principle - based on the belief that technology exists to serve driver and passengers - and an interior design ethos centred on the concepts of light and wind, the all-new model offers standards of comfort and space comparable to larger models.
"We designed the all-new hybrid HR-V to reflect the exacting values and needs of modern consumers, and to appeal to a new generation of car owners," explained HR-V Large Project Leader, Yoshitomo Ihashi. "They demand purpose and innovation from the products they interact with. By cleverly applying our latest technologies and design ethos, we have created a vehicle that will provide the spaciousness, connectivity, reliability and versatility required to fully support and enhance their everyday lives."
Clever packaging increases interior space
To maintain the balance of premium SUV styling and exceptional interior space, Honda engineers packaged all hybrid drivetrain components within the chassis and engine bay. Fundamental developments include rerouting the air intake and incorporating components on top of the engine. This allows room for the electric motors, propulsion motor and generator to all be accommodated within the engine compartment.
Honda also reduced the size of the power control unit (PCU) by 20 per cent compared with the previous-generation component. This allows the auxiliary 12V battery to also fit into the engine compartment, freeing up space at the rear. This is made possible by using the newest semiconductors for the PCU.
Also key to maximising cabin room is the positioning of the fuel tank in the centre of the chassis, beneath the front seats, which is unique in this class. In addition, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) unit has been made much more compact, allowing the interior to adopt a low, horizontally-oriented design for an increased forward view and a greater sense of space, despite the compact exterior width of the car.
Setting new benchmarks for interior comfort
The premise of the HR-V's interior design centres on the interaction between the occupant and the car, to better support and integrate with their everyday lives. This starts from the moment they enter the car. Every design element is dedicated to achieving a sense of generous spaciousness and airiness that connects occupants to the outside world. Each interaction with the new HR-V is designed to create an optimal user experience.
The sense of connection with the outside world begins with excellent forward visibility, which has been enabled by several enhancements. Firstly, a new driving position, which is 10mm higher than in the previous model. In addition, the windows are shaped to admit as much light as possible. Sight lines are aided by the flat line of the bonnet and rear-view mirrors that are now located lower down on the door.
The spacious and versatile interior is designed to reflect the lifestyle of the owner rather than the vehicle price, with vibrant and high-quality materials and trim elements available across both grades.
Honda's next-generation body-stabilising front seats feature mat-structure support, replacing the previous spring set-up, which helps prevent fatigue on long journeys and increases comfort in everyday use. For additional comfort while driving, the interior controls are carefully positioned within the driver's field of vision. The uncluttered, simple-to-use layout adds to the sense of spaciousness, with instantly recognisable audio and ventilation controls allowing for safe and intuitive operation.
Although the overall vehicle dimensions are similar to those of the previous model, the new HR-V offers greater leg and shoulder room. In addition to the 35mm increase in rear leg room, there is an additional two-degree seatback recline compared to the previous generation HR-V, enabled by Honda's centre tank layout and clever packaging of hybrid components. The platform configuration also allows Honda to retain the exceptionally versatile rear Magic Seat set-up, that offers both fold-flat or flip-up seat flexibility, depending on load space required.
The feature that may have the greatest impact on the overall interior environment for passengers is also the most subtle. The unique Air Diffusion System introduces a new concept of air conditioning, with L-shaped vents positioned in the top corners of the dashboard that deliver the restorative effects of a natural breeze to all occupants.
"This idea was born from the concept of designing light and wind to improve passenger comfort - we set out to eradicate as many areas of discomfort as possible by using nature as our inspiration," said Honda Large Project Leader, Yoshitomo Ihashi. "This new ventilation approach resolves a disparity in traditional vent configurations, where passengers often feel uncomfortable with air flowing directly onto them. The result is a sense of calm airiness, with a more comfortable internal environment for all occupants."
A tactile dial is used to switch between two modes: the normal outlet with forward-directed air flow and the Air Diffusion System, which creates a new gentle flow of air. When the Air Diffusion System is selected, it discreetly directs a stream of soft 'breeze' like air along the side windows, brushing the cheeks of the front passengers.
The air also travels to the roof, creating a gentle vortex of air that is barely perceptible to passengers. The heat transmitted through the side windows in summer is blocked by an air curtain that forms around front and rear seat passengers, as is the cold air during winter.
In the e:HEV L grade, rear-seat passengers will also benefit from air via the rear console outlet. The combination of these features ensures a consistent internal temperature is maintained in all weather conditions.
The all-new Honda HR-V has been engineered with a specific focus on widening the possibilities of what customers can do with the car. By following its M/M development principle and through clever packaging of hybrid components into the chassis and engine bay, Honda has achieved impressive levels of cargo space, with the flexibility to support customers' active lifestyles.
The result is impressive boot capacity despite the additional requirement for hybrid components. With a fully flat cargo floor and Honda's versatile rear Magic Seats, the HR-V has the flexibility to accommodate a wide variety of luggage and lifestyle-related equipment.
Easy loading access is not compromised by the coupe-inspired roofline. The clever packaging, Magic Seats, low tailgate edge, wide tailgate aperture and the low, flat cargo floor all work in unison to maximise space and access. Surfboards can be carried inside the car and two adult mountain bikes (with the front wheels removed) can be loaded and stowed upright with ease. There is also room for an additional storage box (or a series of box sections on the Vi X grade), which is located under the boot floor for secure storage.
Loading convenience is enhanced on the e:HEV L by a hands-free 'Power Tailgate Walk Away Close' function. The smart key proximity function detects when the key is moving away from the car, to automatically start closing the tailgate.
Storage space and connectivity points around the cabin have also been improved over the previous model. A large centre cubby can store a variety of everyday items and there are two USB charging sockets in the front on both grades, with an additional two charge points in the rear on the e:HEV L. The Advanced Display Audio system with Android Auto™ and wireless Apple CarPlay®, and touch-activated cabin lights further reinforce the premium interior feel and comfortable, relaxing ambience.
Honda's engineers analysed every detail of the HR-V driving experience to maximise driver enjoyment and comfort. Compared to its predecessor, the all-new HR-V has a more rigid body structure and benefits from extensive suspension, steering and braking enhancements so that it responds more precisely to driver inputs, and delivers a more assured, more rewarding and more comfortable driving experience.
The torsional rigidity and spring rate of the steering column has been increased by 15 per cent, affording a smoother feel during direction changes. Initial corner turn-in is more direct when compared to the previous-generation HR-V and the overall feel during manoeuvres is much more linear and precise.
The suspension is also more responsive, with a reduction in friction from the first steering input. To achieve this, the spring offset is increased to reduce lateral forces on the damper, which also features reduced inner friction. This combines with the low-friction ball joints and optimised bushings to provide a more linear and smooth movement.
At the rear, the compliance bushes have been modified in both construction and design to improve rear wheel control and ride comfort. Now liquid-filled, the bushes offer up increased damping performance and supreme low-frequency performance, providing excellent primary ride characteristics, whilst absorbing certain frequency vibrations to improve secondary ride. In revising the bush design, a flange has been added to reduce lateral movement across the bush. By offering a more secure seating, the spring rate of the bush has also been reduced to further improve handling and ride comfort.
Honda's Agile Handling Assist (AHA) system is another advanced technology that improves the dynamic stability of the vehicle, particularly when reacting to fast steering inputs or high cornering loads, such as during emergency avoidance manoeuvres.
AHA operates through the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) system and lightly applies the brakes to the inner wheels when the steering wheel is turned. The result is increased vehicle responsiveness and stability, and a more stable and predictable driving experience.
Assured stopping power for the e:HEV L is delivered by 293mm ventilated front discs and 282mm solid discs at the rear, while a bespoke electric servo brake mated to the e:HEV system smoothly controls the regenerative and hydraulic brakes, affording smooth, assuring brake feel. The braking system on the Vi X comprises 282mm ventilated front discs and 282mm solid discs at the rear.
Additionally, the brake pedal in the new HR-V has been repositioned with a keener focus on ergonomics, reducing driver fatigue over long distances. Continuing the exercise in fine-tuning, the gap and step between the accelerator and brake pedal is reduced by 5mm, with increased pedal surface. It's a small adjustment that makes a big difference in feel when transitioning from brake pedal to accelerator.
Electronic brake systems include: Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Automatic Brake Hold. Hill Descent Control, available for the first time in Australia on the HR-V, operates from a minimum speed of just 3 km/h. This technology enables greater and smoother control on low-grip surfaces and steep descents to increase driving confidence in a wider range of conditions - from navigating slippery outdoor carpark ramps to tackling steep snowy roads.
Platform engineered for class-leading dynamics and comfort
Honda's current 'Global Small Platform' has been updated for the all-new HR-V, with the ratio of high-tensile steel increased for improved body rigidity. In addition, 980 high-lambda steel is applied to the floor centre crossmember and the centre pillar inner, further increasing rigidity and reducing weight by 1.5kg.
A ring structure has been added behind the C-pillars for further chassis reinforcement, allowing for greater control over each individual wheel offering improved ride quality and dynamic behaviour.
As well as minimising weight impact of electrification and improving safety performance, the additional rigidity combines with the low-friction suspension upgrades to provide impressive base stability. This means large road bumps are more easily absorbed, creating a flatter ride, while vibrations from the road are suppressed and engine resonance is reduced.
Honda's all-encompassing approach to noise, vibrations and harshness (NVH) management also extends to reducing sound pressure change when starting the engine from EV mode and suppressing engine noise at higher speeds, to reduce the transmission of vibrations caused by revving up the engine. This extends to increasing the overall stiffness of the roof, to reduce noise resonating from engine vibrations. Engineers also worked to reduce low-frequency road noise caused by road surface changes, further improving the cabin ambience for a more relaxing drive, especially in EV mode.
The thickness of the dash lower panel, which plays a key role in separating the engine and motor noise from the interior, has been increased from 0.8t to 1.4t, resulting in a significant improvement in both vibration and noise transmission. By using a single piece of plastic and an increased number of fixing points, vibration resistance is improved, while additional noise insulating materials are optimally placed in key areas including the dashboard top, bonnet, door linings, console and inner guard.
By repeatedly tuning and testing every element that directly impacts on the driving experience, Honda has given the HR-V a new dynamic character that compliments the contemporary design and superior levels of interior comfort and space.
In-car technology to connects owners to their everyday lives
The all-new HR-V offers a compelling infotainment package, combining intuitive technology with an expanded range of connectivity that enhances comfort, convenience and safety.
The simple-to-use nine-inch Advanced Display Audio touchscreen interface is designed to minimise driver distraction, incorporating customisable shortcuts to frequently used functions and audio sources.
Operation time for the most regularly used controls is more than halved compared with the previous model, providing a safer and more ergonomic experience.
The system interface, which is navigated using familiar smartphone-style swipe controls, also enables smartphone mirroring via wireless Apple CarPlay or a cable connection for Android Auto. Over-The-Air (OTA) map and system updates allows upgrades to the latest level software.
The sound system comprises four speakers in the Vi X grade, with two additional tweeters in the front taking the total to six speakers in the e:HEV L grade.
Other features include Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming for compatible devices, DAB+ digital radio, Alps Alpine satellite navigation, two USB ports on the front panel on both grades, with an additional two USB ports on the back of the centre console for rear seat passengers in the e:HEV L grade.
The new HR-V is also equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling connection to an external Wi-Fi hotspot or communication device.
Comprehensive suite of Honda SENSING safety and driver-assist technologies
The all-new Honda HR-V comes with a wide range of safety measures and systems, including the latest generation of Honda SENSING technologies. Traffic Sign Recognition System and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low Speed Follow (LSF) are two new driver-assist features standard across the range, whilst an Intelligent Speed Limiter and Blind Spot Information System are offered on the high-series e:HEV L grade.
At the centre of the latest systems is a new, wider-angle higher definition camera, which replaces the multi-purpose camera and sensor set-up of the previous-generation system. The performance of the monocular camera is also improved further from the system that was recently introduced in the latest generation Jazz. Recognition performance has increased through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for image processing. For example, the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) now detects motorcycles in front of the vehicle to mitigate the outcome in the event of an unavoidable collision.
The camera recognises a more comprehensive range of road surface and traffic characteristics, while vehicles in front or white lines are detected with much higher accuracy, improving acceleration response when the vehicle in front has moved out of sight or during an overtaking manoeuvre. This includes detecting if the vehicle approaches the outer edge of a pavement (into a kerb, grass or gravel border), an oncoming vehicle, or drifting into another lane without indicating and road signs. Furthermore, the system estimates the gradient of the road, improving the ability to maintain speed while descending. The camera is also now able to eliminate fogging for a constantly clear field of view.
The all-new HR-V is equipped with Honda SENSING, which includes a comprehensive range of safety technologies and driver aids, designed to make driving both easier and safer.
Enhanced Honda SENSING active safety technology offers a broad range of driver assistance aids and features as standard, thanks in part to a new wider angle high-definition front camera that enhances the field of vision and night-time operation, increasing safety in a broader range of real-world situations.
The enhanced Honda SENSING suite of technologies includes:
The driver can decide how much assistance information is displayed on the seven-inch TFT liquid crystal display (LCD) instrument panel.
Passive safety engineered into the HR-V structure
Every HR-V incorporates Honda's proprietary Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure technology that forms the foundation for excellent passive safety performance, enhancing occupant crash protection.
A network of connected structural elements distributes crash energy more evenly throughout the front of the vehicle, reducing the forces transferred to the passenger compartment. ACE™ not only protects the car and its passengers by dispersing the collision energy, it also reduces the collision energy transferred to the other vehicle as well. Its safety performance helps protect occupants from collisions with large and small vehicles alike.
For pedestrian protection, Honda has adapted the clearance under the bonnet and the efficiency of shock absorption, as well as revised the load distribution characteristics of the bumper to achieve top-level pedestrian protection without compromising styling.
Passive safety is as important to Honda as active safety to protect occupants in the event of an accident. Honda HR-V owners and occupants are protected by multiple airbags, with the vehicle also fitted with whiplash-mitigating front seats as an additional safety precaution.
The all-new HR-V is available in two specification levels with two powertrains - starting with the Vi X grade powered by an efficient 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine and rising to the e:HEV L grade fitted with the advanced two-motor hybrid powertrain that delivers refined and responsive performance.
"Building on HR-V's existing strengths, the third-generation model represents the beginning of a new chapter for Honda's small SUV, with sophisticated styling, premium quality, advanced safety and intuitive technology," said Honda Australia Director, Mr. Stephen Collins. "Repositioned as a sophisticated entry point to the Honda vehicle line-up in Australia, the all-new HR-V has been designed to appeal to a broader audience, elevating premium styling and quality alongside the HR-V's enduring trademarks of spaciousness and versatility."
Positioned above the VTi-S grade on the outgoing model, the Vi X is equipped with a range of new features and technologies, including:
Positioned above the previous high-series VTi-LX, the new e:HEV L grade extends the equipment list of the Vi X even further, with a host of premium features, including:
The Vi X grade starts the all-new Honda HR-V range with a national drive away price of $36,700, while the high-series e:HEV L has a national drive away price of $45,000.
