US to welcome the new Honda HR-V; will it perform as good as the previous-gen model

KUALA LUMPUR: It seems like Honda is busy updating the HR-V in the high-performance markets. Starting with Thailand and followed by Indonesia, we now hear the Japanese crossover's plan to step into the United States.

The HR-V is Honda's entry-level offering in North America, and the demand has never been better. For instance, in 2021, 137,090 units were sold (a 63.1% hike over 2020), and in February 2022 alone, 26,287 units were dispatched (an 84.4% hike over the same period last year).

So when the news of the 2023 HR-V debut got confirmed, we couldn't help but wonder if the new model could keep up with high sales figures? This question will only get answered in the months to come. So, let's see what's new with the upcoming HR-V. Is it better than before?

The official teaser refers to the 2023 HR-V as the 'all-new sporty and versatile SUV.' And we can't help be agree. The teaser image dropped by the company, though, only partially shows the car's rear profile; its fancy, well-structured taillight says it all.

Honda HR-V's past teasers revealed the car's front and rear profile. It showed HR-V with a more aggressive nose and a more prominent lower fascia than the ongoing model. The grille now takes an octagonal shape with an S-shaped mesh pattern, with the headlights getting a boxer appearance.

The tail light and the rake for the rear pillar, appear sleeker. Also, the vehicle looks wider thanks to the updated bumper with black panels between body-colour pieces.

Overall the exterior appears to be sorted; as for the interior, Honda has shared no images. However, since the current US model dates back to 2016, several feature and tech front revisions are expected.

It is to be noted that the US-spec HR-V will not be the same as elsewhere, as while testing the car in 2021, Honda said, "This new HR-V will be designed to meet the distinct needs of US customers, and will differ from the Honda Vezel/HR-V that will be introduced in other regions."

Any mechanical details? The company shares no information about the 2023 HR-V's power configuration. The recently launched Indonesia-spec HR-V is offered with a 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo mill making a maximum power of 175 hp and a peak torque of 240 Nm.

Post its April 4, 2022 debut, the American bound HR-V would go on sale in the latter half of the year.

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