We reported earlier that Honda is preparing a differently styled HR-V mid-sized SUV for the North American markets. The company has now released a couple of renderings of an all-new SUV, called the 2023 Honda HR-V. The SUV is specifically designed & developed for the North American markets.
1. Civic Platform
The 2023 Honda HR-V will be based on the new Civic platform. It will rival the likes of the Toyota Corolla Cross, Hyundai Creta and the Mazda CX-30. The new Civic platform will allow Honda to create more space inside the cabin as well as bigger cargo room.
2. Design Details
The 2023 Honda HR-V shown in the design sketches looks significantly different from the existing model on sale in the European as well as Japanese market. It comes with a completely re-styled front fascia, featuring a larger octagonal grille with S-shaped mesh design, and an aggressive front bumper that accommodates faux inlets at each corner. The vehicle gets a larger and squarish headlamp setup that is different from the rounded units in the current CR-V.
The side profile of the 2023 Honda HR-V retains the rounded profile; however, it has a different tailgate and tail-lights. It looks significantly longer and should offer an additional cargo room. The SUV has a wider tailgate and bigger wraparound tail-lights. It has a chunkier bumper with black cladding for a rugged look.
3. Interior – What’s new for 2023?
The company hasn’t released the interior sketches of the 2023 Honda HR-V. It is likely to retain the versatility of the previous model, and is expected to offer second row Magic Seat. The SUV will have a modernized cabin with improved technology. The interior design is likely to be inspired by the new gen Civic sedan. The SUV will have a large touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It is also likely to offer connectivity features such as Wi-Fi, SiriumXM radio and in-dash navigation.
4. Advanced Driver-Assistance Features
The new HR-V will come with several advanced driver-assistance features such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, automated emergency braking, blind spot detection and many more.
5. Engine Specs
The SUV could also receive a hybrid powertrain, as Honda aims to achieve 40% of its total sales using electric or hydrogen-powered cars. The hybrid SUV has been packed with Honda’s e:HEV system that includes a 1.5L iMMD (Intelligent-Multi Mode Drive) petrol engine and two electric motors. There is a lithium-ion battery and a fixed gear transmission. Its combined power output stands at 109bhp.
The North American model is also likely to share the engine options with the new Civic sedan, which includes a 158bhp, 2.0L four-cylinder petrol and a 180bhp, 1.5L 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol.
New Honda Mid-Sized SUV For India
Honda has no plans to launch the HR-V nameplate in the Indian market. The company is preparing an all-new mid-sized SUV, which is expected to be launched in 2023. The new model is likely to be based on City platform and will rival the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos and the MG Astor.
