Honda had unveiled the new generation HR-V SUV for the European markets. The company has announced that the new model will receive a different version for the United States. Kojiro Obake, Chief Engineer of Vezel (HR-V name in Japan) said that the North American version will have a different design and a slightly larger platform.
He said that the new Honda HR-V 2022 for the United States is being developed separately to suit local tastes. The new model 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 report claims that the new Honda HR-V will receive a slightly larger platform. It is expected to adopt the base of the new Civic; however, the new SUV will be slightly smaller than the CR-V. The new generation Civic will be made in the USA and Canada, and this will allow the new SUV to continue to be assembled at the same production line. The company could also use the existing architecture; however, the SUV will have bigger dimensions.
Okabe hasn’t revealed about the engine specifications. It is yet to be confirmed whether the North American HR-V model will receive a hybrid version. Honda is aiming to sell close to 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.
Compared to the previous generation, the new Honda HR-V is 120mm longer and 10mm wider. While the height has been reduced by 5mm, the wheelbase has been increased by 20mm. In terms of proportions, the new SUV is 4,450mm long, 1,780mm wide and 1,600mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,630mm.
