Honda Reveals Hybrid-Only HR-V for European Market

Electric Avenue

After its recent announcement that it intends to convert its entire lineup to electric or fuel cell vehicles by 2040 (and be fully electrified in Europe by 2022), Honda is understandably already working on this major transition. That includes the newly revealed, hybrid-only HR-V, a spunky compact crossover designed to compete against the Ford Puma, VW T-Roc, and Nissan Juke in Europe. 

Photos: Honda

Styling Overhaul

The new HR-V is sized a bit differently than the outgoing model, measuring in at the same length but with around 0.4 more inches of ground clearance and a nearly 0.8-inch lower roof. The overall styling is quite a big departure as well, with a longer hood, steeply raked windshield, and sleek LED lighting.

Photos: Honda



>>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.

Simply Yet Elegant

In the rear, the new taillight design spans the entire width of the body, a style that's all the rage with designers these days. Honda went with a simpler, cleaner style for the sides, however, one that's somewhat reminiscent of the fully-electric and much-beloved Honda e.

Photos: Honda



>>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.

Revamped Interior

Inside the cabin, both front and rear passengers benefit from nearly 1.4 inches of additional legroom, which does come at the expense of no additional cargo space. However, the rear seats fold completely away, making enough room for two 26-inch mountain bikes with their front wheels removed.

Photos: Honda



>>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.

Clean and Simple

The driver sits nearly a half-inch higher than before for a more commanding view of the road, but the rest of the interior redesign focuses on simplicity. The instrumentation and 9-inch infotainment screen are clean and traditional, unlike the Honda e, and there are plenty of physical controls for those that prefer not to use a screen for everything.

Photos: Honda


>>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.

Gas and Electric Combo

In terms of power, the HR-V utilizes a 1.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 130 horsepower and 187 pound-feet of torque, which flows exclusively to the front wheels. The gas engine operates mainly as a range extender, while the electric motor provides most of the power at lower speeds, with the gas engine taking over at higher speeds.

Photos: Honda


>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.

Coming Soon

Pricing for the new HR-V hasn't yet been announced, but it's expected to come in at around 20,000 euros, or $24k USD. EPA estimates for the model haven't been revealed yet either, but we imagine that they'll be quite attractive to Europeans who feel the pain in their wallets every time they pull in to fill up.

Photos: Honda



>>Join the conversation about the hybrid HR-V right here in S2Ki.com.