We informed you earlier that Honda will release the next generation HR-V mid-sized SUV in the home market in March 2021. A new media report claims that training for the next-gen Honda HR-V at Japanese dealerships is likely to commence in January 2021. In fact, key details like the engine specifications, features and variant details could also be released on the web.
The next-gen Honda HR-V is also rumoured to be launched in India in the end of 2021. However, Honda is yet to make an official announcement on the same. The production of the new HR-V is likely to commence in February-March in Japan, while launch is expected by May 2021. Honda is not likely to introduce the new HR-V at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January and Osaka (Osaka Auto Show) in February.
The next-gen Honda HR-V has been spotted testing several times in Japan. The spy images reveal that the new model will have coupe-SUV like styling with raked windshield and sloping roofline. The new model will grow in size and is expected to measure around 4.4 meters in length. It will be positioned against the Jeep Compass, Hyundai Tucson and the Toyota Corolla Cross in the global markets.
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. The new model will also receive a strong hybrid powertrain, which uses a 1.5-lirtre petrol engine and two electric motors. This is the same hybrid unit that powers the new-gen Fit and the City sedan. 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.
Honda will also release a new sub-4 meter SUV in the Japanese market in the second half of 2021. The new model is most likely to be based on the new Amaze platform and will challenge the Toyota Raize and the Daihatsu Rocky. The new sub-4 meter SUV is also expected to be launched in India in 2021-22 to rival the Hyundai Venue, Kia Sonet and the Maruti Vitara Brezza.
