The new Honda HR-V aims to combine the driving of a coupe with the robustness of an SUV. 120 hp diesel engine announces consumption of 4l/100 km.
Sharing the essentials of the Civic and Jazz platform, the new HR-V intends, according to the brand: "to combine the elegance and fluidity of a Coupé with the functionality and robustness of an SUV."The new model from the Japanese brand is thus positioning itself as the entry in the range in the SUV universe, where the Honda CR-V, a larger model, with which it also shares some mechanical elements and technical specifications, already stands out. The big challenge for the brand's engineers was to be able to offer a spacious and versatile cabin without increasing the external dimensions.
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Thanks to the innovative arrangement of the elements of the Honda HR-V's interior space, the cabin offers good levels of living space, especially for rear seat passengers, without sacrificing luggage capacity, which goes up to 453 liters with the seats in normal position. up to 1,026 liters with the seats folded down.
Ergonomics and modularity are, according to the brand, guaranteed with the “Honda's magic seats” system, which allows the configuration of the seats' position according to the passengers' needs.
Another of Honda's central concerns was to ensure a good level of dynamic performance, which offers a driving experience closer to a normal touring car than an SUV.
The aerodynamics, the ground connection systems and the engines were developed precisely to improve those driving dynamics, without sacrificing efficiency and fuel consumption. With the 120hp 1.6 liter iDTEC Diesel engine combined with the new six-speed manual transmission, Honda's new subcompact SUV features fuel consumption figures of 4.0 l/100 km and CO2 emissions from 104 g/km.
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In terms of security technology and equipment, Honda provides its HR-V with a complete set of systems and gadgets. Noteworthy: City braking assistant, electric handbrake, warning of involuntary lane change, recognition of traffic signs, radar technology for road visualization, etc. Honda's infotainment system now has a new interface, a seven-inch multifunction screen with Mirror Link function and connectivity via USB, HDMI or Wifi.
The Honda HR-V also competes for the Crossover of the Year award where it faces competitors such as: Audi Q7, Hyundai Santa Fe, Mazda CX-3, KIA Sorento and Volvo XC90.
Text: Essilor Car of the Year Award / Crystal Steering Wheel Trophy
Images: Gonçalo Maccario / Car Ledger