Honda HR-V arrives from $36,700

HONDA has released more details of its HR-V; the Japanese marque’s third-generation light SUV is expected in local showrooms “within weeks” and will be priced from $36,700 drive-away. 

Available in petrol and petrol-electric hybrid guises, the two-variant HR-V range showcases coupe-inspired design “conceived to meet the exacting needs of modern customers”, Honda says.

The entry-grade Vi X variant, which Honda says is positioned between the outgoing VTi-S and RS grades, is powered by a 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol engine, while the high-grade e:HEV L delivers “refined and responsive performance” courtesy of the brand’s new dual-motor hybrid powertrain. 

The 2022 Honda HR-V Vi X is equipped as standard with Honda Sensing driver-assistance and safety technologies, including forward-collision warning, collision mitigation braking system, lane-keep assist and lane departure warning, road departure mitigation system, adaptive cruise control with low-speed follow, high-beam support system, traffic-sign recognition, agile-handling assist system and hill descent control.

Furthermore, the Vi X is fitted with walk-away (proximity) locking, privacy glass, 18-inch alloy wheels, native satellite navigation, and a 9.0-inch infotainment cluster with wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto connectivity.

Positioned above the outgoing VTi-LX, and priced from $45,000 drive-away, the new e:HEV L grade adds a blind-spot information system, rear cross-traffic alert, intelligent speed assist, handsfree powered tailgate with walk-away close function, acoustic vehicle alerting system, electrochromatic rear-view mirror, rain-sensing wipers, heated and power-adjustable hydrophilic wing mirrors (with auto reverse tilting function), a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel, acoustic windscreen, and rear air ventilation outlets and USB ports.

Honda says the new-generation HR-V features a more rigid body structure than the outgoing model and “benefits from extensive suspension, steering and braking enhancements”. A slightly longer wheelbase is further set to improve the model’s ride quality, while an “all-encompassing approach to NVH management” will improve noise insulation and overall cabin refinement.

The HR-V is said to offer comparable interior space to mid-size SUVs with the rear seats positioned 30mm further rearward to extend second-row legroom, while the model’s rear backrest offers an additional two degrees of recline compared with that of its predecessor.

The model also benefits from a new Air Diffusion System that Honda claims delivers “the restorative effects of a natural breeze to all occupants”.

The HR-V duo is available in a choice of five exterior colours, three pearlescent options – including premium opal, platinum white and crystal black – and two metallic colours – meteoroid grey and premium crystal red.

“Repositioned as a sophisticated entry point to the Honda vehicle line-up in Australia, the all-new HR-V represents the beginning of a new chapter for Honda’s small SUV, elevating premium styling and quality alongside the HR-V’s enduring trademarks of spaciousness and versatility,” said Honda Australia director Stephen Collins.

“It successfully extends the Honda brand's reputation for quality, functionality and practicality, and presents it with an individual and fun style, all within a compact package designed to appeal to modern consumers,” he added.

The 2022 Honda HR-V is available to order now.

2022 Honda HR-V pricing*:

Vi X (a)               $36,700

e:HEV L (a)         $45,000

*National drive-away price.