Japanese automaker, Honda has officially teased the new-gen HR-V SUV for Japan and the European markets. The new model will retain the Vezel nameplate for the home market, while the SUV for other markets will be called the Honda HR-V 2021. Honda Europe has also confirmed that the new HR-V will come with a hybrid engine.
Honda has already announced to complete cease the regular petrol and diesel engine options for the European markets. In fact, the company will only introduce hybrid and electric cars. The new HR-V hybrid will join the Honda e (brand’s first Battery Electric Vehicle), CR-V Hybrid, Jazz Hybrid and the Jazz Crosstar Hybrid.
The Honda HR-V 2021 will come equipped with strong hybrid system, called the e:HEV. This powertrain currently powers the Jazz, Jazz Crosstar and the City Hybrid (Thailand). In fact, the Honda City hybrid will also be launched in the Indian market in 2021. It is expected that Honda could also introduce the HR-V with hybrid powertrain in India.
The Jazz and City hybrids are equipped with a strong hybrid system, which comprises of a 1.5-litre iMMD (intelligent-Multi Mode Drive) petrol engine connected to a compact, powerful electric motor, a lithium-ion battery and a fixed-gear transmission. The hybrid system offers a total power output of 109PS. It is claimed to offer an excellent fuel efficiency of 26.7kmpl.
Similar to the Jazz Hybrid, the Honda HR-V e:HEV will offer 3 driving modes – Electric Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive. In Electric Drive mode, the SUV will be running 100% on electric power during low-speed cruising. In the Hybrid Drive mode, the petrol engine and electric motor combine for optimum power and economy. On higher-speed, the vehicle will ride on the petrol engine.
Honda HR-V 2021 Global Debut
The new-gen HR-V for Europe and the Vezel for Japan will be unveiled on February 18, 2021. The company has already teased the new model, which confirms that it will have a coupe-crossover styling. The teaser images also reveal that the SUV will have a freestanding touchscreen infotainment system, connected car technology and factory-fitted sunroof.
