More affordable hybrid model joins HR-V line up

RANKING 15th in the Small SUV sales race year to date, Honda’s HR-V has undergone a mild tweak adding a more affordable hybrid model (making three in the line up) to get it back on the radar with potential buyers.

The range kicks off with the entry-level Vi X 1.5-litre Honda HR-V powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre 89kW/145Nm four-cylinder petrol engine with CVT transmission.

Next up is the new e:HEV X followed by the existing e:HEV L both  powered by a hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with two electric motors for 96kW in total and fuel consumption rated at 4.3 litres per 100km.

Pricing for the revised HR-V range and the new e:HEV X hasn’t been provided by Honda Australia but the newcomer will likely fill the $10K chasm between the two existing models that currently go for $36,700 drive away (Vi X) and $47,000 drive away (e:HEV L) respectively.

It’s highly likely the new e:HEV X will be priced around the early $40K mark.

In adding a new, “more affordable” model, Honda has put a renewed focus on its efficient engine technology but the perky little four-seat, four-star ANCAP rated wagon that now includes a new safety kit aimed to improve its safety rating, reputed to be a sticking point with potential buyers.

These buyers are spoiled for choice in the second largest new car segment behind Medium SUVs, with 40 choices if you factor in the more expensive, so-called “premium” models.

The strongest seller by a long shot is MG's ZS racking up 15,200 units YTD followed by Hyundai Kona at 12,092. 

By comparison, the HR-V achieved only 2111 sales YTD, hence the update and new model we will see arriving in Honda partner premises soon.

Taking a closer look at the “new” HR-V we find “intelligent” technology across the range, now with Honda Connect as standard, advanced in-car technology including Honda Sensing advanced active safety features and a refreshed interior and exterior styling.

In relation to the arrival of the upgrade and additional hybrid HR-V, Honda Australia’s vice president and director, Carolyn McMahon said “Building on the HR-V’s existing strengths, this newly refreshed model represents a sophisticated and intelligent small SUV, with premium quality, advanced in car technology including improved Honda Sensing and Honda Connect as standard.”

“With the arrival of this refreshed HR-V, we are excited to be expanding our hybrid offering to Australian consumers with the introduction of a new hybrid variant at a lower price point. We are confident that the new e:HEV X grade will appeal to a broader audience.”

The revised HR-V will include a colour palette featuring new Slate Grey and Botanical Green hues with the latter available in the e:HEV X and e:HEV L grades only.

All-new features include Traffic Jam Assist and Adaptive Driving Beam (available only on the e:HEV grades).

Of critical importance to the model gaining a five-star ANCAP rating are the following safety inclusions through the Honda Sensing safety suite: Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)

The new HR-V will now come with the Honda Connect D64 mobile application and server platform, offering five years free subscription with every purchase.

Honda Connect is said to elevate the ownership experience for Honda customers, and for the first time the HR-V will offer a variety of connected services to enhance convenience, safety and peace of mind.

All new Honda vehicles come standard with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, and fixed price servicing for five years.