- honda has revealed a new version of the hr-v subcompact crossover for europe.
- this europe-spec version now comes standard with a hybrid powertrain.
- a new 2022 honda hr-v should be headed to the u.s. later this year, but it may be somewhat different from this version.
a new honda hr-v has landed in europe, and honda has confirmed that the next generation of the u.s.-spec subcompact suv is on its way as well. we're not sure at this point how different our version will be, but we're thinking that this europe-spec model gives us a pretty good indication of our version's basic look, if not its powertrain offerings.
honda said in a statement, "the development of a successor to the honda hr-v for the u.s. market is underway. this new hr-v will be designed to meet the distinct needs of u.s. customers, and will differ from the honda vezel/hr-v that will be revealed on february 18 for other regions." we think this means that the 2022 honda hr-v for the u.s. will have its own engine lineup and feature different front and rear fascias.
the new hr-v for europe looks charming and more modern than the current model, with a distinctive front grille and a sharply sloped rear hatch. it retains the same central fuel tank layout as the old model, which means it keeps its spacious rear seat and cargo area with the so-called "magic seats" that fold flat into the floor and also allow you to flip up the bottom cushion. the dashboard design is clean and simple, with a tablet-style infotainment screen in the center and three knobs for the climate controls below.
at this point, all honda is saying about the hr-v's hybrid drivetrain is that it's the same two-motor setup seen in the company's other hybrids including the insight and the cr-v and accord hybrids. we won't be surprised to see an hr-v hybrid join the u.s. lineup as well, but it will likely come standard with a conventional gasoline engine in our market, like all of its competitors here. the turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four found in the civic, cr-v, and accord seems a likely choice, and front-wheel drive will likely be standard with all-wheel drive optional.
honda hasn't said when it plans to release details about the redesigned u.s. hr-v, but we expect to hear more possibly in the fall. it should go on sale here either by the end of 2021 or early in 2022.