Honda has revealed the global market HR-V and it’s less bubbly than its predecessor. The smallest Honda crossover gets a more upright greenhouse but the rear window is still angled more dramatically. Quite possibly the most standout exterior design cue is the grille, which looks like a bunch of slats. You still get rear door handles mounted on the C-pillar while the rear gets full-width LED taillights.
The second-generation HR-V will be the first Honda to feature a new interior layout. Initially previewed in the 11th generation Civic prototype and the fourth-generation Jazz/Fit subcompact hatchback, expect certain versions to get a 9.0-inch touch screen on the dash and likely a digital gauge cluster. Honda kept the control layout simple, creating a clean dash that should also minimize the learning curve. The cool Magic Seats, which creates additional flexibility by allowing the rear seat cushions to fold, return for the second-generation crossover.
Powering the new Honda HR-V is a two-motor hybrid powertrain as standard. Unlike the CR-V Hybrid, we’re suspecting the HR-V is using the 1.5-liter I4-based unit instead of the 2.0-liter-based one. That means it could have anywhere from 107 hp and 187 lb-ft of torque as found in the global market Jazz/Fit e: HEV to 151 hp and 197 lb-ft on the North American market Insight sedan.
Honda has revealed that the HR-V for North America will be created specifically for this region. We’re suspecting that the U.S.-spec version will have more potent powertrain options and unique suspension calibration. With Europe getting a hybrid HR-V, we hope North America gets it too. However, for it to succeed it needs to get the same powertrain as the Insight and be available with AWD to expand its appeal to consumers living in four-season climates. The U.S.-spec HR-V is expected to arrive later in the year, likely in the summer.
