The second-generation Honda HR-V is finally here and looks totally different. The vehicle that serves as the genesis for this particular Honda model is much more compact and angular than the new crossover. We now have a vision of what exactly the 2023 HR-V looks like and how Honda wants it to affect the brand as a whole. It is a more advanced model, which comes with improvements in all its aspects, and with the mission of positioning itself among the best cars of the moment.
Every aspect of the exterior design is much more conventional but, fortunately, the engine will get even more power. That won’t take much as the outgoing model generates just 141 horsepower (105 kW) from its 1.8-liter four-cylinder. What we can’t confirm yet is exactly how much more power the new car will generate.
That may sound strange to customers across the pond, as Honda launched an HR-V there. However, that model is actually a totally different beast, so it’s not indicative of what we’re getting here. To make it even more confusing, Honda will also sell the North American HR-V in European markets starting next year, but in those locations they will change the name to another that they have not yet communicated. That gives us to understand that the Japanese manufacturer seeks to introduce this car in as many countries as possible, taking advantage of the good reputation enjoyed by this specific model since it first came on the market.
The possible mechanics
Honda has made it clear that the 2023 HR-V of the U.S. and Canadian market will travel on the same platform as the 11th-generation Civic. That car has a wheelbase that’s about five inches longer than the outgoing HR-V, so expect more space in both directions, as Honda says it will also be wider without getting into specific numbers. With that information in mind, it’s easy to assume that Honda will use any number of Civic engines for the new HR-V. The Civic’s entry-level engine already generates more power with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit at 158 horsepower than the 2022 HR-V. If Honda is more adventurous, we could also see the compact model’s 1.5-liter turbocharged 1.5-horsepower four making its appearance.
Honda HR-V has a different look to the North American model
Regardless of which engine they choose, it’s clear that Honda wants the new crossover to really bolster the entire lineup. This new HR-V will advance its position as a segment leader with young buyers, first-time buyers and multicultural customers. In that sense we can appreciate from its front an aggressive car, but that keeps its elegant airs of always.
From the hood you can see the changes; this piece is short but wide, and comes with interesting lines on the sides that descend to pair with the optics and grille of the car. The optics come within a thin transparent layer, and all their lights, both daytime, dipped and night headlights come with advanced LED technology. The grille is black, with the manufacturer’s slogan right in the center. On the sides of the bumper has direct air inlets to the motor. The lower part has a third air intake.
On the sides of the bumper we have those striking star-shaped alloy wheels or wheels, with an efficient brake system with discs and calipers on all its wheels. The door locks are the same body color, and the mirror housings are combined with the black color.
Behind the car we have a radio antenna in the form of a shark fin, with a sports spoiler that brings a third stop in LED. Brake or stop lights come in LED. There are auxiliary lights embedded in the bumper.
It is expected that, by acquiring aspirational qualities beyond its segment, the new 2023 Honda HR-V will welcome a new generation of customers to Honda and grow in importance as a gateway to the Honda brand.
