The new generation of Honda’s entry-level crossover is on its way to North America and it will bring a lot of surprises. For the first time, the HR-V nameplate will be used for different models. The European version has already debuted and the upcoming North American version won’t have many things in common. A lot of things will be different, starting from the platform, powertrain, size and many other things. The new model will debut by the end of this year, as the 2023 Honda HR-V.
The Japanese manufacturer wants to go upscale with the new crossover and upgrades will come in various aspects. Compared to the outgoing model, the new one will be significantly bigger and it will also feature a way more refined suspension setup. All this should make the new HR-V even more popular than the current model, which is already an absolute class leader in terms of sales numbers.
2023 Honda HR-V Design
A lot of things are going on with the new 2023 Honda HR-V. Unlike the European version, the U.S. model won’t continue to ride on the Fit/Jazz platform. Instead, it will share most of its parts with the new 11th generation Civic. This means a lot of upgrades, not just in size but in terms of mechanics as well. This platform is far superior in many aspects and to give you a picture, let’s just say that the new model will feature an independent rear suspension, which will significantly improve the ride quality.
Of course, this platform will open up plenty of new possibilities, whether it’s about powertrain or advanced driver-assist technologies. We even expect to see a hybrid version, which will feature a significantly different system compared to the one that powers the European HR-V.
Exterior
When it comes to the exterior design, the most notable change is the new styling. The new generation brings Honda’s new design philosophy, with sleeker lines and a longer hood, which makes this crossover look sportier. Furthermore, the grille feels more prominent, while the rear end features a bit of a sloping roof, which means that you may count on a bit of a coupe design approach as well.
Still, the biggest upgrade will come in terms of dimensions. The new generation will feature 104.5 inches in wheelbase, which is nearly two inches more compared to the outgoing model. Moreover, the total length goes all-away up to 179.8 inches, which is over 9 inches more compared to the second-generation HR-V.
Interior
We have no doubt that this significant size increase will bring significant improvements in terms of interior space, even though we have to say that the current model is already among the most practical small crossovers on the market. It offers plenty of cargo space, while the passenger room is decent as well. The new model will feature a notably longer wheelbase, which promises more legroom and a higher level of comfort.
2023 Honda HR-V Engines
The new platform also means new engine options. We have no doubt that the company will drop the super-reliable but also outdated 1.8-liter unit and replace it with, at least, two new powertrain options. One of them, reserved for base models, could be the legendary K20 engine, which powers base Civic models as well. This 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated inline-four puts out around 158 horsepower, which should be plenty enough to satisfy most drivers.
For more ambitious drivers, the company will probably offer a 1.5-liter turbo-four with around 190 horsepower. Both engines should come coupled with a CVT.
Finally, there’s a chance to see a hybrid version. We are pretty sure the 2023 Honda HR-V won’t feature the same powertrain as the European model. Instead, the system should be based on a 2.0-liter inline-four, which would come in pair with a couple of electric motors, for a total output of 180 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque, reports say. We are still waiting for the official confirmation.
2023 Honda HR-V Release Date and Price
We believe that the 2023 Honda HR-V will arrive by the end of this year. The starting price will probably go around 24.000 dollars, while models like Mazda CX-30 and Hyundai Kona are expected to be key competitors.