Honda's Nissan Juke rival follows Jazz and CR-V in gaining e:HEV petrol-electric powertrain
Honda has revealed the hybrid-only third-generation HR-V crossover ahead of its European launch in late 2021, claiming that the new model offers improved interior space on its predecessor.
As part of the company's aim to electrify all of its mainstream European models by 2022, the HR-V ditches the previous car's pure-petrol and diesel powerplants for a new e:HEV petrol-electric hybrid system promising "exceptional" efficiency.
Technical details remain unconfirmed, but the combustion element of the powertrain is likely to be either a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder, as used by the hybridised Jazz supermini, or a 2.0-litre unit borrowed from the larger CR-V Hybrid.
The first full images of the SUV confirm what previous spy shots and teasers have suggested: that the third-gen HR-V's design is a dramatic departure from that of its predecessor.
Honda says it "embodies the brand's seamless, clean, modern design philosophy seen in other recent new Honda models." Slim, distinctive headlight designs and a revamped grille dominate the new-look front end, with a long bonnet, rakish roof line and straight-edged shoulder line heavily distancing the new model from its predecessor.
Honda has said that the new HR-V will retain the previous version's centrally located fuel tank to offer increased interior space. Honda says the car can accommodate four adults in "maximum comfort", claiming that design changes from the previous model means the inteior offers increased leg and shoulder room despite similar overall dimensions.
The cabin has been redesigned to maximise the feeling of spaciousness, with a minimalist dashboard layout, simple horizontally aligned instrument panel and Honda's 'Magic' folding, flipping rear seats in the back. The dashboard is a revised design, with Honda using new L-shaped vents in the top corners of the dashboard to free up space. The firm also says the new vents offer improved comfort by directing airflow along the side windows, rather than directly onto the occupants.
Also new for the third-gen HR-V is an air diffusion system that sends a "curtain" of fresh air through new L-shaped vents.
Further details of the new, European-spec HR-V, including pricing, are expected in the coming months.
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https://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/new-c...te-restyle
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