Honda HR-V get updates for 2018 - Know what’s new in store!

Honda HR-V hails from the popular B-segment crossover chunk that has gained popularity due to its SUV stature and aggressive hatch styling. In the local auto market, the said Honda crossover has performed considerably well and competes with the likes of Nissan Juke, Chevrolet Trax, and Ford Ecosport.

However, as for today, Honda Cars Japan seem to have 'up' the game with the facelifted 2018 Honda HR-V. Note the car operates under the name Vezel in Japan. With the new updated model, the company expects to see an improvement in the sales division of near about 5,000 units.

Let’s get started and have a look how Honda has transformed the 2018 HR-V -

Exterior

On the outer front, HR-V has received a few changes that we think are enough to make a differentiating profile over its previous self. As clearly visible, the 2018 HR-V has borrowed some designing clues from the likes of Honda Accord and Civic. Here’s a list of few notable changes -

• A new mesh design grille, bigger & bolder than before
• LED fog lamps (lower trims get halogen reflector units)
• Refreshed headlight design with reflector-type LED
• Slightly modified tail light with dark tint underlining
• 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels, RS model featuring 18-inch wheels

 Interior

On the inside, Honda designers seem to have focused more, as the cabin looks revised with only a few carry forward tech. From upholstery to advanced features, 2018 HR-V has a long list of updates to follow, like -

• New stitching pattern improves both texture and holdability
• Two-tone cabin giving a plush feel
• Updated styling on climate control panel
• Infotainment system, supporting Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• Use of vibration absorption material contributing to a quiet ride pleasure

Under Hood Configuration

The updated HR-V features a 1.5-litre Direct Injection mill that remains common across all trims. The said mill produces a maximum power output of 110 PS along with a peak torque of 134 Nm. The hybrid trim features, City and Jazz hybrid model, borrowed Sport Hybrid i-DCD system, with power and torque figures topping 137 PS and 170 Nm respectively.

While the petrol variants receive continuously variable transmission, the top-spec model is the only one to be fitted with paddle shifters. A seven-speed dual clutch transmission with paddle shifters is standard across hybrid trims. While the new HR-V is available in both all-wheel and front-wheel drive, the RS models are available in only front-wheel drive option.

For the Malaysian market, we are expecting the 2018 Honda WR-V to feature the same 1.8-litre engine with CVT.

 Tech & Shades

2018 Honda HR-V has extended its offering on both the tech and colour plate front. While the company has made the Honda Sensing system standard across all trims, new shades are added to HR-V shade card.

Features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Collision Mitigation, Road Departure Mitigation System, Forward Collision Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist System are inclusive with the standard Honda Sensing Kit

Now available in a total of 8 shade including Rousse Black (metallic), Luna Silver, Premium Crystal Red, Midnight Blue Beam, Crystal Black (pearl), Aurora Amethyst (metallic), Silver Mist Green, Platinum White Pearl

Price

With the above-mentioned updates on the exterior, interior, engine and tech front, it would not come as a shock if Honda revises new HR-V price tag by a few ringgits. As for the Japanese market, the non-hybrid trim holds a starting price tag of JP ￥2,075,000 (RM 67k). The hybrid option on the other hand is available in between the range of JP￥2,460,000 - 2,810,000 ( RM 91k - 103k).

That's all for the updated Honda HR-V that recently greeted Japanese land. As for Malaysia, we are hoping this second most popular Honda get its share of new additions soon and see how its compititors and auto critices react.