Honda Details New HR-V Hybrid For Europe Ahead Of Late 2021 Launch

Honda has released more details on the new 2022 HR-V, which will be available exclusively with a hybrid powertrain in Europe.

The all-new Honda HR-V e:HEV is powered by a combination of a 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine and two electric motors, for a combined output of 129 HP (131 PS) and 186 lb-ft (253 Nm) of torque. It’s basically a more powerful version of the hybrid powertrain found in the smaller Jazz, which shares the same architecture with the new HR-V.

The hybrid powertrain of the new Honda HR-V comes with three main drive modes – Sport, Normal, and Econ- while there’s also an additional ‘B’ mode that can be selected via the gear selector for stronger regenerative braking. Honda says that the new hybrid HR-V can pull off in its pure EV mode, switching to the petrol engine seamlessly when driving at higher, more constant speeds, like when you are on the highway.

The new underpinnings of the 2022 Honda HR-V allow for a roomier interior with the company’s trademark practical solutions still present; in addition to the 35mm increase in rear legroom, the new Honda HR-V also features the rear Magic Seat layout, allowing both fold-flat, and flip-up seat functions. The platform allowed Honda to mount the fuel tank on the center, which when combined with the clever packaging of the hybrid components, give the HR-V a very spacious cabin despite the coupe-inspired roofline.

The infotainment system uses a 9-inch touchscreen display and features a simplified and fully customizable interface for easier access. In addition, the system is also faster in its responses compared to the previous iteration and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto. The instrument binnacle also hosts a 7-inch display showing information on the vehicle’s driver-assistance systems.

Speaking of which, the 2022 Honda HR-V features the Honda Sensing suite of systems, which in this version benefits from a new wider, higher-definition monocular front camera and high-speed image processing chips, making it better than the previous camera and radar sensor combination. The latest Honda Sensing in the HR-V features a new adaptive cruise control that monitors the steering angle and lateral G-force and comes with a low-speed follow function and brake control. Systems like Blind Spot Information, Cross Traffic Monitor, and Hill Descent Control are also included.

Honda will launch the new HR-V e:HEV in Europe in late 2021, with pricing details to be announced closer to its market debut.