New Japan-built Honda HR-V launched in Singapore, starts from S$123,999 with COE

Singapore’s Honda dealer, Kah Motor Co. Sdn. Bhd., has announced the launch of the All-New Honda HR-V in hybrid and petrol powertrain. Most of the interest we reckon will lean towards the e:HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) option, following the footsteps of the Jazz e:HEV launched early last year.

The HR-V DX is equipped with a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine that delivers 118 ps at 6600 rpm and maximum torque of 142 Nm at 4300 rpm.

The HR-V e:HEV comprises two electric motors connected to a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC petrol engine and a lithium-ion battery. It delivers a maximum power of 131 ps from 4000 - 8000 rpm and maximum torque of 253 Nm from 0 – 3500 rpm. The e:HEV set up includes three interchangeable drive systems (Engine, Hybrid and Electric) that switch automatically under prevailing driving conditions.

The new HR-V embodies Honda’s clean and modern design philosophy that follows the key concepts of function and beauty. The newly integrated grill design enhances the sense of unity with the body. The side profile sees a long bonnet and a crisp horizontal beltline that runs through the back. By increasing the road clearance by 10mm (e:HEV) and reducing the roof height by 25mm (petrol), 15mm (e:HEV), the sleek silhouette becomes more apparent. The incorporation of aesthetics into the overall design is also evident in its LED headlights, taillights and seamless tailgate design.

Centring on the belief of serving the needs of the driver and passengers with Honda’s ‘Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum’ (M/M) principle, the HR-V pursued an exceptional spaciousness thanks to the clever packaging that retains its predecessor’s interior space. By retracting the A-pillars by 50mm and reducing visual noise from the instrumental panel, exceptional visibility is achieved. Designed with a focus on elevating airiness within the cabin, an “Air Diffusion System” subtly directs a stream of air alongside the front door windows to the roof. Honda claims that this new feature creates a vortex of air that helps with circulation mimicking natural wind. In addition, the rear ventilation also provides air conditioning for rear passengers.

Honda also paid attention to the materials with the use of contemporary fabrics and soft-touch materials, coupled with an anti-fatigue body stabilising front seat and with an increase of legroom by 35mm for rear passengers. Passengers will find plenty of cupholders, USB ports and pockets for small items. Honda’s centre tank layout helps to retain the signature “ULTRA” seat configurations. The loading and unloading are fuss free despite the coupe-inspired roofline. A hands-free power tailgate and walk-away close switch feature elevates its convenience factor, as the smart key proximity function prompts the tailgate to close once it detects that you are moving away from the car.

The 9” display audio interface allows wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Through this touchscreen, it also displays a view with dynamic guidelines as the car reverses into a parking lot. Available to the driver is also a 7” TFT meter that provides vital information such as driver-assistance system information, energy flow, Honda Sensing and basic information such as speedometer and driving modes. On the petrol variant, it has a two-lens meter with a 4.2-inch TFT LCD in the centre.

The new HR-V is equipped with Honda Sensing for the first time, using a wide-angle camera and a high-speed image processing chip also available on the new Honda Jazz. The Honda Sensing suite features a range of safety technologies and driver assistance. Out of the list of safety features, Hill Descent Control is a first for HR-V. This technology enables a controlled movement on low-grip surfaces and steep descent to give the driver the confidence to navigate at a set speed.

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