Honda HR-V will sit below the CR-V in the domestic portfolio and it will likely rival Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, upcoming MG Hector and Kia Seltos
A recent report emerged on the internet suggested that Honda Cars India has displayed the HR-V to its dealer principals in New Delhi and the production will begin soon. Standing in line with the speculation, the HR-V has now been spotted testing on Indian roads and it could be showcased at the 2020 Auto Expo next February.
Honda may not afford to wait long though as a launch can be expected later this year too. The Japanese manufacturer has been consolidating its premium lineup in India as the arrival of CR-V late last year and Civic in March is part of the strategy. With the affinity towards upmarket SUVs steadily increasing, Honda could use the opportunity and eye a big pie in the segment.
New brands like Kia and MG Motor are indeed targetting the same space as the rise of Hyundai Creta to stardom has instigated new options. Honda depends heavily on its sedan portfolio unlike any other manufacturer to garner volumes in the domestic market and the HR-V will expand its presence utilising the brand’s premium image.
The HR-V, also known as Vezel in some markets including Japan, is offered in different avatars across the globe. For instance, the Vezel VE-1 is an all-electric version with 340 km driving range while the XR-V is specifically retailed in China. India will likely stick with the standard model and it will rival Hyundai Creta, Tata Harrier, upcoming Kia Seltos and MG Hector as well as Nissan Kicks.
The spotted test mule indicates the presence of coupe-like silhouette, flared wheel arches, wraparound LED tail lamps, a roof integrated spoiler with high mounted stop lamps, shark fin antenna, mono exhaust outlet and rear bumper with reflectors. Expect the HR-V to use the same powertrain lineup as the tenth generation Civic.
In that case, the 1.8-litre i-VTEC petrol engine should be good enough to produce 141 PS and 174 Nm while the 1.6-litre Earth Dreams diesel is capable of generating 120 PS and 300 Nm. The latter, if deemed underpowered, could get twin turbos as sold in international markets.