- this is our first look at the next-generation honda hr-v.
- a prototype spotted in europe shows a boxier shape and more modern headlights.
- the new hr-v is likely to arrive in the u.s. late this year as a 2022 model.
honda's smallest suv is getting a long-overdue overhaul, as evidenced by these spy photos of a prototype testing in europe. the new model looks blockier and more modern than the current hr-v, which has been on sale in the u.s. since 2015 and in global markets for even longer. this redesign should make honda's smallest suv much more competitive in the crowded subcompact crossover segment against newer and more appealing options such as the mazda cx-30 and kia seltos.
we believe that the hr-v will continue using the same platform that underpins the honda fit hatchback. while the fit was discontinued in the u.s., a new generation exists for global markets and it retains the same layout that places the fuel tank under the front seats for a low cargo floor and extra cabin space. while we haven't seen inside the new hr-v yet, we presume the interior will feature nicer materials and honda's latest infotainment system.
from what we can see, the new hr-v's styling be similar to the new honda civic's, as the headlights look similar to the civic sedan prototype shown recently. the rear hatch slopes sharply, almost giving the hr-v the look of so-called "coupe" suvs. it's hard to gauge size from these photos, but we wouldn't be surprised if the hr-v grows a bit taller and wider.
the most likely base engine is the 158-hp naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four from the outgoing civic sedan. a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four may also be offered as an upgrade, along with a hybrid drivetrain similar to the one found in the honda insight. front-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission (cvt) will be standard equipment, with all-wheel drive optional.
we expect to see the new hr-v in full sometime in 2021, with the global version likely to debut before the u.s. model. when it eventually goes on sale on our shores late this year or early in 2022, it will likely start around $23,000.