The entry level cross-over vehicle market segment is certainly shaping up this year, what with HR-V being introduced. Booking for this Jazz-based crossover is now open, with roadshows moving around the country in order to showcase this all-new product from Honda. HR-V has been used by Honda to describe a 2-door wagon-esque vehicle the produced between 1999 and 2006, but the acronym back then stood for “Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle”. This HR-V follows a more conventional 5 door design with more conventional proportions; this time, HR-V stands for “Hip & Smart Runabout Vehicle”, a bit more of a mouthful.
Honda is positioning the HR-V in a segment they label as the ‘Dynamic New Generation Compact SUV’: it is said to combine the best aspects of an SUV with the feel of a coupe and the functionality of an MPV. While we’re not entirely sure what that means, the HR-V is a handsome looking car by any measure, with promising features as well. Under the hood, the HR-V features a 1.8L i-VTEC SOHC engine paired with a Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). Size-wise, the All-New HR-V measures 4,294 mm in length, 1,772 mm in width and 1,605 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm.
This multi-dimensional compact SUV has increased body rigidity and stability with its super high tensile steel including hot-stamped materials installed at appropriate spots. As Honda is known for over-engineering certain aspects of their products, the front and rear sections of the HR-V have been further reinforced to provide linear handling feel (also known as reducing chassis flex under cornering forces).
Honda has put a great deal of effort into developing the HR-V as a practical product and a good all-rounder. The multi-utility cargo space is something we’re used to seeing in products like the Jazz, where a great number of configurations are available in order to maximise loading area.
It’s interesting to note that Honda has decided to stick with the larger 1.8-litre engine option instead of opting for the smaller engine variants for our market. Pricing is yet to be announced, but expect this compact cross-over to sit a little over RM 100,000. If you’re interested in viewing the HR-V in the metal for yourself, you can attend one of the numerous roadshows that will be taking place over the next few weeks.
The schedule follows as below.
