2022 Honda HR-V: How different is it from the current model?

Honda has already launched the 2022 HR-V in ASEAN markets like Thailand and Singapore, and now it’s the turn for Indonesia to enjoy the revamped SUV and that with an all-new VTEC Turbo engine. But contrary to that, we are still waiting to try our hands on the new HR-V. Although the latest B-segment crossover spied in Malaysia a few weeks ago, there is no official announcement on its launch yet. So, while we wait, it is better to know how the new Indonesia-spec Honda HR-V differs from the ongoing version?

Engine specifications

To begin with, the Indo-spec model gets a VTEC Turbo engine that marks its world debut with the car. It delivers a maximum power output of 177 PS and a peak torque of 240 Nm. However, just the top-spec RS gets this turbo mill, and the other three variants (S, E, and SE) come equipped with a naturally-aspirated four-cylinder VTEC mill that is good for making 121 PS and 145 Nm torque. Nevertheless, there is no contrast between the HR-V variants on the transmission front as they all come equipped with the same continuously variable transmission.

The ongoing HR-V in Malaysia, on the other hand, comes with different engine options - a 142 PS/172 Nm 1.8-litre naturally aspirated petrol unit and a hybrid mill combining a 1.5-litre n Atkinson-cycle DOHC i-VTEC, an electric motor, and a lithium-ion traction battery. The setup combinedly churns out 152 PS and 190 Nm. The transmission duties are taken care of by CVT auto and 7‑Speed Dual‑Clutch Transmission, respectively.

Exterior 

Besides mechanicals, the new Indonesia-bound HR-V also sets itself apart from the local version in exterior styling and features. 

Compared to the ongoing model, the latest HR-V looks more classy and mature with a new body-coloured radiator grille housing horizontal slats. It is flanked by slim trapezoidal headlights integrated with new LED daytime running lights that are connected by a chrome bar. In addition, the bonnet is longer while the roofline is sleeker, offering a dynamic appeal to the SUV.

Further raising the bars are advanced features like sequential turn signals, 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic glass roof, auto-folding exterior mirrors, walk-away auto-lock, and a hands-free powered tailgate. On top of that, the RS trims benefit from an exclusive RS body kit and dual exhaust pipe outlets.

Interior

It’s time to move inside the new Honda HR-V; here, we find a comfy cabin thanks to the “Man-Maximum, Machine-Minimum” philosophy that lets Honda provide a class-leading interior space. The rear legroom of the upgraded SUV is more extensive by 35 mm. It is not just space but also the equipment that makes the new HR-V more comfortable and advanced. Here, we have a feature comparison of the top-spec trims of the latest and outgoing HR-V -

Specs	New HR-V	Old HR-V
Infotainment unit	8.0-inch capacitive touchscreen display audio	7.0-inch touchscreen display audio
Instrument cluster	7.0-inch Interactive TFT cluster with customized display settings	Multi‑Information Combination Meter
Air-conditioning	Auto with rear vents	Auto
Sound system	4 speakers + 2 tweeters	4 Speakers
Remote Engine Start	Yes	No
LED Map Lights	Yes	No
Cruise Control	Yes	Yes
Upholstery	Leather with red stitching	Leather
Leather-wrapped Steering wheel	Yes	No
Leather-wrapped gear knob	Yes	No
Driving modes	Three - Sport, Normal, and Econ	NA
Shift paddles	Yes	Yes
Honda LaneWatch	Yes	Yes
Multi‑Angle Rearview Camera	Yes	Yes

Safety

We see a significant upgrade in the Indo-spec model when it comes to safety as it comes packed with the Honda Sensing advanced-driver assistance suite as standard. It incorporates:

• Lane Keeping Assist System 
• Collision Mitigation Braking System
• Auto High-Beam
• Road Departure Mitigation
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Low Speed Follow
• Lead Car Departure Notification 

With Indonesia getting the ADAS as standard, we expect the local market would also get to enjoy this advanced safety pack. 

In terms of passive safety bits, the two SUVs in question continue to offer the same stuff like six airbags, ABS with EBD, automatic brake hold, hill start assist, and VSA. 

Last and most important, i.e. the HR-V price. Honda Indonesia retails the latest model at a price starting from 355.9 million rupiah (RM 104,738). However, for the top-spec RS, one needs to shell out an amount of 499.9 million rupiah (RM 147,070). This is almost 14% higher than the ongoing HR-V RS in Malaysia, which is entirely justifiable on account of significant upgrades.

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