September 2018 saw the introduction of the all new HR-V to the South African market. The popular HR-V, introduced locally in 2015, has undergone a significant upgrade programme – featuring all new front and rear styling, enhanced interior and upgraded equipment levels. What sets the HR-V apart is the combination of its sleek, coupé-like design with the robust attitude of an SUV with the space and versatility of an MPV. Honda has retained exceptional space utilisation with their Magic Seat system, but features model-specific upgrades to upholstery, fabric and finishes – the infotainment system has also been standardised across the range.
DESIGNThe front-end has undergone several significant updates like an all new front bumper, reprofiled bonnet and redesigned headlights, whilst the silhouette remains unmistakably HR-V. The more aggressive front bumper design includes a new license plate garnish, as well as recessed apertures for LED fog lights (standard on the 1.8 Elegance model). The new headlights feature LED elements and LED daytime running lights on the elegance version, while the Comfort derivative headlights make use of projector-type halogen units. The rear has also undergone some changes. The taillight clusters has gained a smoked appearance and redesigned license plate garnish to match the front’s more aggressive styling approach. The popular 16-inch alloy wheels were retained on the Comfort model, while the Elegance models are fitted with contemporary 17-inch wheels, in line with its flagship status. Two new colours have been added to the HR-V’s colour palette in order to underline its youthful appeal: Passion Red and Brilliant Sporty Blue.
INTERIOR
Building on the cabin’s exceptional space and versatility, the updated package further emphasises the crossover’s premium feel, thanks to upgraded finishes and materials. New fabric designs have been incorporated in the Comfort model, while the Elegance gets smarter perforated leather upholstery with double-contrast stitching. Honda’s magic Seat system has also been retained in this upgrade, thanks to the HR-V’s centrally located fuel tank that allows for a flat rear cabin floor, allowing for an almost infinite variety of seating and load carrying configurations – ensuring an unrivalled level of versatility in this segment. An aspect that is perhaps less obvious – the noise and vibration dampening has been upgraded, further enhancing the HR-V’s already impressive refinement levels.
The HR-V has become popular for being comprehensively equipped with an array of comfort and convenience features, so it should come as no surprise that the all new HR-V delivers in this aspect. Standard features on all models include electric windows and mirrors, remote central locking, air-conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel and a multi-information trip computer.
Honda has standardised the touchscreen based infotainment system as part of the upgrade, which means that both the Comfort and Elegance now feature a 6.8-inch touchscreen display, instead of the 5-inch previously fitted to the Comfort models.
This sophisticated infotainment system has an extensive feature list which includes Bluetooth hands free telephony with audio streaming, USB and HDMI ports, and smart device screen mirroring for access to device-specific functions such as video and photo files, as well as GPS navigation.
Reverse parking is a breeze with a reverse camera linked to rear parking sensors on the Elegance model. The remainder of the comprehensive standard equipment remains unchanged.
Safety remains a pivotal benefit of the Honda HR-V via complete suite of active and passive safety features. Front, side and curtain airbags are standard, together with head restraints and inertia reel seatbelts for all seating positions. In active safety terms, the HR-V offers ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) activation. Further peace of mind is provided by Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and a high-mounted, third brake light. ISOFIX child seat anchors are also included.
DRIVETRAINSThe 1.5 Comfort CVT is powered by Honda’s well-established 1 497cc four-cylinder engine, featuring i-VTEC variable valve timing and electronic fuel injection. The engine is credited with 88kW of maximum power, attained at 6 600 r/min, together with a torque peak of 145 Nm at 4 600 r/min. The 1.8 Elegance CVT employs a 1 799 cc four-cylinder engine, again featuring i-VTEC variable valve timing and electronic fuel injection. Power and torque maximums come to 105 kW at 6 500 r/min and 172 Nm at 4 300 r/min respectively. The 1.5 Comfort boasts a combined-cycle fuel consumption figure of 6.3 litres/100 km*, linked to CO2 emissions of 151 g/km. The 1.8 Elegance model achieves 6.8 litres/100 km* in the combined cycle, coupled to 162 g/km of CO2 emissions.
