2022 Honda HR-V Detailed In 160 Photos In Australia Where It Costs More Than Mazda CX-30, Toyota C-HR

The 2022 Honda HR-V has officially touched down on Australian shores before deliveries commence.

Not to be confused with the unrelated North American 2023 HR-V, Australia’s 2022 HR-V that is identical to the European model as well, will be sold locally in two flavors, called Vi X and the e:HEV L. Prices, including all applicable on-road fees, start at AU$36,700 ($25,203) for the Vi X and AU$45,000 ($30,900) for the e:HEV L.

Powering the HR-V Vi X is a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 89 kW (119 hp) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm (107 lb-ft) of torque at 4,300 rpm. In Australia, the HR-V is considered a small SUV and as such, rivals the likes of the Toyota CH-R and Mazda CX-30. It matches up well with the C-HR with its 1.2-liter turbo delivering 85 kW (114 hp) and 185 Nm (136 lb-ft) but has significantly less power than the entry-level 2.0-liter CX-30 with its 114 kW (153 hp) and 200 Nm (147 lb-ft_.

These two models are also cheaper, with the base Mazda CX-30 available from AU$33,691 ($23,136) and the base C-HR starting at AU$35,081 ($24,091).

Read More: 2022 Honda HR-V Offered With Two Powertrains In Australia

A number of important features come standard with the HR-V Vi X. These include Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keep Assist System, Lane Departure Warning, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, High Beam Support System, and Traffic Sign Recognition. Honda has also equipped the SUV with 19-inch wheels, privacy glass, a 9-inch infotainment screen, and its Agile Handling Assist System.

Topping out the range is the e:HEV L. This model pairs the standard 1.5-liter four-cylinder with an electric motor to produce a combined 96 kW (129 hp) and 186 lb-ft (253 Nm) of torque. By comparison, the available Toyota CH-R GR Sport with its hybrid 1.8-liter delivers a combined 90 kW (121 hp), although Toyota doesn’t publicize a combined torque figure.

A plethora of features come standard on the HR-V e:HEV L that are not available on the lesser model. These include a Blind Spot Information System, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, hands-free tailgate, auto-dimming rearview mirror, auto rain-sensing wipers, LED active cornering lights, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, and an acoustic windshield.

“We carried out group discussions with people of varying backgrounds, from many fields of expertise and across all ages and genders,” Honda HR-V Large Project Leader, Yoshitomo Ihashi, explained in a statement. “This has helped us add elements which will bring fun and joy to all passengers. We have sought to augment, not repress people’s individuality and create a car that enables occupants to enjoy their lifestyles.”