An early sighting of the next-generation Honda HR-V suggests the compact SUV will bear minimal resemblance to the current car.
Expected to be launched in 2022, the HR-V looks set to adopt a heavily raked roofline for a coupé-style silhouette, similar to that of similarly positioned models, including the Kia Xceed and upcoming Renault Arkana.
However, this prototype’s raised ride height implies the HR-V will retain its SUV billing in order to distance it from the next-gen Civic hatchback, also arriving on 2022.
Beyond the new shape, we can see slim LED headlights, mounted high and angled for a more aggressive look than the current car, while the leading edge of the bonnet looks to protrude over the grille, much like that of recently spotted test mules for the next Honda Civic.
The rear door handles can still be found behind the rear window, as on the second-gen car, while straighter window lines and a more prominent spoiler could signal a design influence from the chunky first-gen model, which was an early entry into the now-burgeoning compact crossover segment,
As for mechanical tweaks, it seems likely Honda will revamp the HR-V’s powertrain line-up, which currently comprises 1.5-litre petrol and 1.6-litre diesel engine options, both not electrified. The Japanese brand has vowed to phase out all pure-combustion engines in Europe by 2022, so the next HR-V will likely offer a variation of the larger CR-V Hybrid’s petrol-electric engine, and a pure-electric option is almost a certainty.
Honda Europe vice president Ian Howells also recently hinted that the firm is exploring further alternative fuel options, including biomass and hydrogen, but no further official details have been offered yet.
Our best indication of what to expect from the cabin comes courtesy of a preview sketch for the 2022 Civic’s interior. More minimalist than the current car but still featuring an array of physical controls for key functions, it will offer a new 9.0in infotainment touchscreen and usher in new driver aids and technology. Expect a similar treatment for the HR-V.
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As a happy three times Honda owner back in the '90s, bought an HR-V five years ago. Put short, it was the most unreliable car I've ever owned and something despite being back at Honda for a total of 13wks, not even they could resolve. I accept anyone can buy a lemon but it was Honda's attitude that upset me. Their solution was to keep on fixing the car. I even offered to accept another HR-V of same age or put money towards a newer car or another brand new one but they were having none of it. I ended up selling it at just over a year old.
I don't care if this turns out to be the best car in the world, the dealers I used stunk and Honda UK provided no backup. Will never be inside a Honda showroom again.
More like a cowp.
Also people want autos and the CVT is not good here. Hybrid would be ideal but will make it even more pricier. Going to be a real issue.