This is our first look at Honda’s new small crossover.
If you don’t pay attention, time can fly by. Honda’s subcompact HR-Vcrossover isn’t seven years old. However, it was introduced to the Japanese market in late 2013. It was not available for purchase in the United States until 2016,, when it received a minor facelift for 2019, . It doesn’t feel old. However, in the highly competitive small SUV market, its seven-year-old bones are quite ancient.
The small car won’t have to wait much longer. The prototype of the next-generation HRV was seen testing on European public roads. Although this is our first sighting, it is a strong indication that the model is almost ready for production.
We can see the fundamental design changes to the crossover’s form by using a full-body camouflage cover with hard panels around its grille. Rear pillars are larger and have a steeper angle, as is the rear glass. This sleek design is more commonly associated with coupe-style crossovers and the HRV seems to be heading in that direction.
We expect to see a wider grille between the covers and thinner, more sleeker headlights at the front. The inverted-V hood blends into the face. Further back, the windshield is upright, while the greenhouse sits higher to improve visibility. We have yet to find any information about the interior. However, rumors suggest a similar sleek redesign with lots of tech and a large touchscreen display. Although details about the powertrain are not known, it may get the e.HEV hybrid powertrain that was seen on the Honda Fit in certain markets.
The current HRV was first introduced in Japan, and then later in the USA. This process is likely to continue for the next generation, which could provide cover for Japan or Europe as early as March. Rumours suggest that May is the best time frame, and that the US will arrive sometime later.