Filling the space between the Honda Fit and CR-V, the all-new 2016 Honda HR-V Crossover made its North American debut today at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, bringing drivers a mix of coupe styling and the rugged utility of an SUV perfect for rural and urban settings.
Positioned below the Honda CR-V in price and size (about 10 inches shorter), the well-equipped HR-V serves as the entry point to an all-new segment for the brand – the Honda light-truck lineup – and as prime competition for other crossovers like the Mazda CX-5 and Nissan Juke.
Built on an innovative center fuel tank layout – the same global platform that supports the admired Honda Fit – the HR-V provides drivers one of the most spacious and versatile cabins. The HR-V is also equipped with the Honda-exclusive Magic Seat®, which provides drivers with multiple seating configurations and cargo modes to maximize space for any situation.
The HR-V is equipped with a 1.8-liter SOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valvetrain that produces 138 horsepower and 127 lb.-ft. of torque. Drivers have the option between a 6-speed manual or CVT transmission, as well as two-wheel drive (2WD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). AWD models include Honda’s Real Time AWD with Intelligent Control System for all-weather traction and control.
The HR-V sports an athletic, but sleek, exterior created by its powerful face and coupe-like shape that includes a sharp character line, distinct side contours and a sculpted lower body. Rear door handles are concealed near the rear pillar, which also adds to the refined coupe-like appearance of the HR-V. Fulfilling its mission to be energetic yet sophisticated, the HR-V’s interior features a spacious and airy cockpit with superior detailing highlighted by bezels, refined stitch lines, brushed chrome, piano black highlights and soft-touch material.
In tune with Honda’s emphasis on safety, the HR-V is equipped with Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) front body structure that is designed to absorb and disperse the energy from a frontal collision. Standard driver-assistive and safety features include, but are not limited to, Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®) with Traction Control; four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) with Brake Assist and Hill Start Assist; and a Multi-Angle Rearview Camera.
Standard features on all HR-V models include, but are not limited to, Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink® phone interface, Pandora radio, aluminum-alloy wheels, tilt and telescoping steering wheel with audio and cruise controls and a rearview camera. Premium feature options for higher trim levels include, but are not limited to, Honda’s 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio telematics interface, Honda Digital Traffic, Honda LaneWatch™, Smart Entry/Push-Button Start, paddle shifters, HD Radio™, embedded navigation and leather trim.
The HR-V will be manufactured at Honda’s newest North American auto plant in Celaya, Mexico and will launch at Honda dealerships worldwide early next year.