The facelifted Honda HR-V has been revealed in European spec, with the Japanese automaker confirming that the crossover will at a later stage also be offered with a 1,5-litre turbocharged i-VTEC engine.
Although the brand has yet to reveal the four-cylinder’s peak outputs in HR-V form, it’s worth noting that the engine makes 127 kW and 220 N.m in the Civic and 140 kW and 240 N.m in the CR-V.
Honda also revealed that a 1,6-litre i-DTEC diesel engine would join the line-up at a later stage.
At launch in Europe, though, the only engine on offer will be the familiar 1,5-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit, worth 96 kW and 155 N.m (interestingly, this model in pre-facelift form here in South Africa makes 88 kW and 145 N.m). Gearbox choices include a six-speed manual cog-swapper and a continuously variable transmission.
Honda says this engine has been “enhanced” (thanks largely to new friction reduction measures), adding that it has incorporated more insulating material in key areas round the vehicle.
Styling changes include a fresh interpretation of the latest Honda family face, with a new, high-gloss dark chrome panel replacing the black-and-chrome combination above the grille. The front bumper now features deeper air intake sections that house circular foglamps, and the headlamps now have projector lenses (LED items will be offered in some markets) with redesigned LED daytime running lights.
At the rear, a dark chrome garnish across the tailgate mirrors the new trim at the front, and the rear lights sit within darker lens casings. New alloy wheels designs have furthermore been added, along with a fresh paint colour. Inside, Honda says the upholstery has been upgraded to a “higher-quality material”.
It’s not yet clear when this updated Honda HR-V is scheduled to arrive in South Africa.
