We informed you earlier that Honda is developing a different looking and bigger version of the new HR-V for the American markets. This has been confirmed by Kojiro Obake, Chief Engineer of HR-V (Vezel name in Japan). He said that the North American version will have a different design and a slightly larger platform.
The new HR-V for the United States will be developed separately to suit local tastes. Digital Artist, Kleber Silva has released a new rendering that shows the possible design of the American-spec new HR-V SUV. The rendering is based on the European-spec HR-V; however, it gets a more upright and different-loking front fascia. The front features a more prominent chromed grille and differently styled LED headlamps with LED DRLs.
The rendering appears slightly bigger than the regular HR-V. The rear profile seems identical to the European-spec model; however, designer has made some changes to the lower bumper. It gets a more prominent silver trim on the bumper, and re-styled tail-lamps. The render retains the coupe-SUV like styling, featuring sloping roof and raked windscreen. The rendering also gets a differently styled alloy wheels.
The new Honda HR-V for the American market will be based on a slightly larger platform and will come with a robust styling. The increase in dimensions will help Honda engineers to create more space inside the cabin. It is expected that the new Honda HR-V for the American market will be developed on the new platform, as the Fit hatchback won’t be sold in the USA. The company could use the new Civic platform, as the new sedan will be made in the USA and Canada.
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.
