It’s still a mystery but we might have some idea
It’s been a little over a month since the 11th-generation Honda Civic was introduced to our market, and now, the attention turns to the model tipped to be next in line for Honda Malaysia – the third-generation Honda HR-V.
For the ASEAN region, the compact crossover has so far been launched in Thailand and Singapore. Of course, we will not be getting it until Indonesia does but judging by previous launches, the time gap should not be more than three or four months, provided that everything goes as planned.
Launch date aside, the big question is which variant of the HR-V will we get? Thus far, there’s been no indication from Honda Malaysia regarding this matter but to get some idea, let’s take a look at the HR-V in the neighbouring markets.
In Thailand, the HR-V is available in sole e:HEV hybrid variant, which combines a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine with a pair of electric motors. On its own, the engine pumps out 103 hp and 127 Nm of torque but the two e-motors help increase the total system output to 129 hp and 253 Nm.
With an in-house developed e-CVT driving the front wheels, the HR-V e:HEV is capable of returning an impressive fuel economy of 25.6 km/l.
The e:HEV, which is also set to be launched in Australia in the first half of this year, makes the most sense for our market as it can be the direct replacement for the outgoing HR-V Hybrid.
Speaking of Australia, government certification documents revealed that it will also get a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder option alongside the e:HEV. Positioned as an entry-level variant, it offers a measly 117 hp and 142 Nm of torque, 23 hp and 30 Nm lower than what the current 1.8-litre engine.
The chance of this variant making its way to Malaysia is slim to none as the output is way too low to be competing in the ever-demanding B-segment crossover market. So, will the e:HEV hybrid be the only variant of the HR-V to be offered in Malaysia?
We don’t think so as Honda Malaysia would most likely want to offer a pure petrol variant to local buyers. For that, the company could be considering the crowd-favourite 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo variant, which has been confirmed for the Indonesian market alongside the 1.5 NA and e:HEV hybrid variants. In the Civic, the mill churns out a healthy 182 PS and 240 Nm, and is mated to a CVT.
If the HR-V Turbo does enter Malaysia, the HR-V range will definitely see a price increase, as is the case with the new Civic. That being said, we doubt that it will put the slightest dent in the demand as well as its status as one of the most popular crossovers in the country.
