Honda is bringing the new generation of HR-V to North America and from what we can see, things will be significantly different compared to the outgoing model. The new generation will come in two variants. The European version already debuted and we can say it continued in the way we expected. On the other hand, the North American version is coming soon and it will feature notable differences. It will be bigger and more upscale. Importantly, it will ride on a different platform, which should be superior in man ways. Moreover, it will also come as the 2023 Honda HR-V Hybrid, where the Japanese manufacturer is about to introduce a new version of its hybrid system.
At this point, we know for sure that the new HR-V will go full hybrid but some sources also speculate about the plug-in hybrid. In any case, this version won’t be significantly different that models with gasoline engines. Other than the powertrain, things will be pretty much the same.
2023 Honda HR-V Hybrid Powertrain
Of course, the key feature of the 2023 Honda HR-V Hybrid will be its new powertrain. The Japanese manufacturer will offer a new version of its familiar system, which consists of a familiar 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder gasoline engine, which gets help from two electric motors. This particular version will feature a max output of 181 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque, which should be more than enough to ensure good driving dynamics. As you may presume, the system will come coupled with a CVT.
Some sources also speculate about a plug-in hybrid version. Allegedly, this version would come with the same combination of gasoline engine and electric motors, but with a bigger battery, which would ensure around 35 miles of the all-electric range.
Besides the hybrid powertrain, the new HR-V will also come with two gasoline engines. Base models should come with a good-old 2.0-liter unit with 155 horsepower. On the other hand, higher trim levels will come with a 1.5-liter turbo-four, which puts out around 190 horsepower.
2023 Honda HR-V Hybrid Design
Design-wise, the 2023 Honda HR-V Hybrid won’t be any different than the gasoline version. We are about to see a complete redesign, which will bring some pretty significant improvements. The first one to mention is the platform. Unlike the outgoing model, which rides on the Fit/Jazz platform, the new model will use Civic’s architecture. This will bring all kinds of upgrades, including the independent rear suspension instead of a torsion beam. We presume that the ride quality will be way better.
The new model will also get bigger, with a longer wheelbase. Also, you may count on a completely new styling, which takes some inspiration from the new Civic, but also comes with a lot of its own. It is sleeker than before, with a longer hood and more aggressive overall shape, so we have no doubt that potential buyers will find it very attractive.
Interior
Naturally, the cabin will be all-new as well and from what we can see, it will take a lot of inspiration from the new Civic. This particularly refers to the dashboard design, which will look largely the same. You may count on the same shape, which utilizes classic lines in a combination with tech features. Base models will come with a 7-inch touchscreen, while higher trims will feature a 9-inch unit. Also, you may count on tech features like a digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging and similar thing on the list of standard equipment. On the other hand, things like SiriusXM satellite radio, in-dash navigation, and a Wi-Fi hotspot will be offered as options.
Thanks to the long wheelbase, the new 2023 Honda HR-V will be more spacious than the previous generation. Unfortunately, the legendary “Magic Seats” won’t be available anymore, but the company promises way more room in the second row, as well as a bigger cargo area.
2023 Honda HR-V Release Date and Price
We expect that the 2023 Honda HR-V will hit the market by the end of this year, or in the first half of 2023. The price is still unknown but we estimate that the base model could go around 27.000 dollars.