The new Honda HR-V arrives in Europe in the fall of 2015, offering another offer in the crossover category, with dynamic style, MPV flexibility, advanced, dynamic handling and economical performance. The HR-V expresses confidence by "marrying" the embossed lines of a coupé with the stiff and sturdy character of a powerful SUV. Inside, it offers passengers top space and high levels of flexibility. High-quality soft materials and advanced design characterize the interior of the HR-V, where the designers managed to combine the rich spaces with a sporty, driver-centric cockpit.
The new application-based Honda Connect infotainment system operates via a 7 '' touch screen in the center of the dashboard, providing access to internet browsing, news, newsletters and real-time weather forecast and music streaming service.
From day one, the HR-V will be available with high-performance 1.6-i-DTEC (120 PS) diesel or 1.5 i-VTEC (130 PS) petrol engines, both from Honda's Earth Dreams Technology range .
The Advanced Driver Assist System package, which uses a mid-range camera and radar, incorporates a comprehensive suite of security technologies, some of which are new to the crossover category.
The new HR-V has a top interior, not only rich but also extremely versatile, offering the features of an MPV for the first time in the crossover category.
The basis for the spacious and flexible interior of the HR-V is Honda's global B platform that incorporates innovative landscaping solutions. For example, a lower profile fuel tank installed under the front seats frees up floor space under the rear seats so that Honda's Magic Seats can be fitted.
Each of the split 60:40 Magic Seats rear seats offers numerous configuration options, maximizing the flexibility of the spacious interior. In 'Utility' mode, the back of the rear seats folds forward while the base of the seat lowers to create a large, flat floor surface. In 'Tall' mode, the rear seat base locks in a vertical position, freeing up floor-to-ceiling space. In "Long" mode the backs of the front and rear seats fold in a horizontal position.
Once seated, all passengers enjoy a great deal of space in the area of the legs, shoulders and head, a level that is usually found in larger cars.
And the luggage space is impressive with 453 lt when the rear seats are used and 1026 lt up to the line of windows with the rear seats folded. The wide opening of the rear door and the low loading height translate into easy access and spaciousness of the luggage compartment.
Renewed and advanced interior design with high quality materials, panoramic sunroof and sophisticated new infotainment system
In the passenger compartment, the designers sought to combine different requirements such as space, reliability and the cockpit of a rugged, sporty coupé.
The use of high quality soft surfaces, highlighted with subtle touches of brushed chrome create a premium environment, while the solid design of the dashboard is dominated by some luxurious details such as piano-black panel that emphasizes the advanced character.
Opposite the guide is a panel with three instruments, framed by light rings that promote a sense of quality. ECO Assist changes the background color of the speedometer from white to green while driving, informing the driver of the fuel consumption.
The Executive Edition also offers a one-touch reclining / sliding sunroof. The sliding awning that opens automatically with the roof can be closed by hand for sun protection.
In the center of the dashboard is a 7 '' Honda Connect touch screen that is placed in the Sport and Executive versions offering advanced connectivity and information / entertainment. A 5 '' screen is available in the Comfort version.
The screen that uses the Android 4.0.4 operating system, uses the familiar touch functions of a smartphone. Honda Connect provides fast and easy access to online services such as web browsing, newsletters, news and real-time weather, social media and internet music stations. Other applications can be installed from the specially designed Honda App Center that allows owners to personalize their personal information / entertainment experience, while built-in Garmin Navigation is also available.
The touch screen also displays vehicle information such as odometer, fuel economy and travel time
In addition, Honda Connect syncs with smartphones and other multimedia devices via MirrorLink, WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI and USB.
Like all new Honda models sold in Europe, the HR-V is equipped with numerous premium active and passive safety technologies.
Integrated active security systems combine data from radar sensors and front and rear cameras. In addition to the entry (entry) model, all other versions will be equipped with Honda Advanced Driver Assist System. The family of security technologies includes Intelligent Speed Assist, City Brake Active Assist, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition system, and High-beam Support System.
In addition, the City-Brake Active system will be fitted as standard on the HR-V.
In addition to the integrated front and roof airbag system, Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure technology is the backbone of passive safety. A network of connected structural features distributes impact energy evenly to the front of the car, reducing the forces transmitted to the cab and increasing occupant protection in frontal collisions. The ACE structure also minimizes the possibility of penetrating below or above another vehicle — a common occurrence in frontal or lateral collisions with a larger or smaller vehicle.
The HR-V is available in Europe only with FWD front-wheel drive and a range of efficient, direct-response 1.5 i-VTEC 130 PS petrol and 1.6 i-DTEC 120 PS diesel engines. Both are mated to a quiet and smooth 6-speed manual transmission, while the 1.5 i-VTEC petrol engine is also available with an automatic CVT with paddles in some versions.
Both engines are from Honda's Earth Dreams Technology series, designed to deliver instant response and high performance while meeting Euro 6 standards.
The HR-V is deliberately designed to offer a sedan experience, which is achieved due to its low center of gravity and lightweight, extremely rigid body structure. The rigidity is mainly due to the fact that 27% of the body structure is made of high-strength steel. This ruggedness creates a sense of safety when driving with minimal body tilt. The result is excellent handling, making the HR-V one of the safest cars in the crossover category for sporty driving.
The HR-V has a high level of aerodynamic characteristics in the crossover category, which favors not only fuel efficiency but also the absence of noise in the quality cabin. To minimize road noise, it uses an effective sound insulation package. Noise absorption inside the front and rear wheel arches, the carpet and the floor covering contribute to the creation of a quality and relaxing atmosphere in the cabin.