Japanese automaker, Honda has recently introduced the new-gen City sedan in India as well as in select international markets. Adding to it, the brand is readying the next-gen Civic, HR-V and the CR-V. In fact, the next-gen Civic Prototype has already been unveiled. The company will introduce the next-gen Honda HR-V crossover in March 2021, and the production of the current model will end in February in Domestic market (Japan).
The new-gen Honda HR-V will be based on the updated version of the existing platform, which also underpins the new-gen Fit hatchback. The platform has been updated to achieve higher stiffness and reduced weight. Media reports suggest that the wheelbase of the SUV will be increased by 50mm to 2,660mm from the current 2,610mm. Adding to it, the SUV will grow in size and is expected to measure around 4.4 meters in length.
The SUV has already been caught testing in Japan, which shows that the next HR-V will have coupe-SUV styling. It is reported that Honda could bring a new compact crossover below the next HR-V. The new crossover-SUV with conventional styling will be positioned against the Hyundai Creta and Kia Seltos, while the next HR-V will rival the Jeep Compass and the Toyota Corolla Cross.
Japanese media reports that the new HR-V will measure around 4.4 meters in length, 1.79m in width and 1.59m in height. The SUV will come with a strong hybrid system, which we have already seen on the Fit hatchback. It will be fitted to a 1.5-litre petrol engine with two electric motors. The hatchback achieves up to 80kmph with the use of the electric motor. For greater power, the petrol engine starts to work to transmit the rotation to the second electric motor, which is called the generation engine.
The regular model will also receive the 1.5-litre VTEC petrol engine and the 1.8-litre petrol engine. The new model is not likely to receive a diesel derivative. Previous reports suggest that Honda is still considering the HR-V nameplate for the Indian market; however, a new compact crossover with traditional design would make more sense.
