2019 Honda HR­V

The new Honda HR­V is the company’s most sophisticated subcompact SUV to date. Sportier exterior styling is complemented by upgrades to the interior design and materials, as well as a broader range of advanced technologies. The HR­V continues to offer the space and versatility of an MPV and now benefits from enhanced driving dynamics and a wider choice of fuel­efficient engines.

From the first glance, the new HR­V’s more elegant features are apparent – including a more substantial interpretation of Honda’s 'Solid Wing Face’ graphic

Inside, the 2019 HR­V offers impressive interior space and – thanks to innovative features like Honda’s Magic Seat system – high levels of versatility. High quality soft­touch materials and sophisticated design elements define the HR­V’s interior as an optimal blend of practicality, refinement and the feel of a sporty, enclosed cockpit.

The new 2019 HR­V offers buyers a choice of powerful and efficient engines. Production of the 1.5­litre i­VTEC petrol variants commenced in late 2018, while the higher­performance 1.5­litre VTEC TURBO petrol engine is available from Spring 2019.

The 1.6­litre i­DTEC diesel engine is also available in selected markets. All engines are mated to a six­speed manual transmission as standard, while the petrol engines are also offered with an automatic CVT.

The HR­V’s overall design concept combines the elegance and fluidity of a coupé with the utility and strength of an SUV. For the latest model, Honda’s development team sought to enhance its sophistication and emotional appeal through a range of design updates.

Honda’s HR­V has a coupé­like cabin profile, with a powerful nose and strong lower body forms, together with finely-­sculpted surface detailing.
It creates a characterful look that produces an emotional appeal among its target audience, which highly values style and practicality.

On the road, the new HR­V boasts a distinctive and self­-assured identity, while having a clear family lineage. The refresh leads with a more substantial interpretation of Honda’s ‘Solid Wing Face’ graphic with a new, high-­gloss dark chrome panel that replaces the black-­and­-chrome combination above the grille.

HR­V’s coupé-­like body shape creates a dynamic and sporty look, complemented by rear door handles integrated within the C-­pillar. Distinctive, sharply­-defined lines run the length of the body, giving the HR­V a purposeful, forward­-leaning stance and a sense of movement and agility, even at a standstill. For the latest model, Honda’s designers sought to bestow HR­V with an even more robust presence. Strongly sculpted lower body panels are enhanced by deeper air intake sections in the front bumper that house circular fog lights, while the headlights now have projector lenses with LED daytime running lights as standard. At the rear, a dark chrome garnish across the tailgate mirrors the trim at the front, and the rear lights sit within dark lens casings.

On higher­grade models, the wheels are upgraded to a new 17­inch alloy design, and the exhaust tailpipe has a unique chrome finisher. The headlights and rear lights are upgraded to full LED units, and the rear casings are enhanced with a dark ‘smoked’ effect. HR­V retains outstanding aerodynamic performance in the crossover segment. Beneath the vehicle, three covers (under the engine, front floor and rear floor) help to smooth and optimise air­flow, boosting fuel efficiency. They also enhance noise insulation for improved interior refinement. Aerodynamic development work focused on optimising front and rear aerodynamic lift to further improve vehicle stability at speed. The toughness, solidity and sure­footedness associated with larger SUVs are complemented by intricate seamless detailing, ensuring that HR­V possesses the elegance to look attractive in any scene.

Honda will offer a choice of nine exterior colours for the 2019 HR­V, including the new additions of Platinum Grey Metallic (Sport only) and Midnight Blue Beam Metallic. The other colour choices comprise: Milano Red, Platinum White and Crystal Black in a pearlescent finish; and Lunar Silver, Modern Steel, Brilliant Sporty Blue and Ruse Black metallic hues.

For the new HR­V Sport model, a high­gloss black chrome panel replaces the darkened chrome of the standard 2019 HR­V across the front. An exclusive black honeycomb finish is also applied to the front grille garnish, which carries over into the fog light surrounds. The HR­V Sport is uniquely fitted with a dynamic styling pack, which comprises a slim front splitter, side skirts, wheel arch mouldings and a more aggressive rear bumper – all finished in black. It also includes black door mirror caps, dual exhaust pipes and 18­inch alloy wheels in a unique design. Sport grade cars are equipped with full LED headlight and tail light clusters, enhanced at the rear with a dark ‘smoked’ effect and black inner bars, as well as a black chrome garnish across the tailgate.

Expanding the range of powertrains available, the new Honda HR­V will be available with a choice of powerful 130 PS (96 kW) 1.5­litre i­VTEC or 182 PS (134 kW) 1.5­litre VTEC TURBO petrol engines, or a highly efficient 120 PS (88 kW) 1.6­litre i­DTEC diesel ( available in selected markets only). Each of the four­cylinder engines are engineered to deliver responsive performance together with low fuel consumption.

With an optimal balance of power and efficiency, the 1.5­litre i­VTEC petrol engine produces 130 PS (96 kW) and maximum torque of 155 Nm. Acceleration from 0­62 mph takes 10.2 seconds when equipped with the six­speed manual (6MT), and 11.7 seconds with the optional CVT.

The i­VTEC engine has CO2 emissions from 148g/km* (WLTP) (from 130g/km NEDC correlated) and combined cycle fuel economy from 41.5mpg to 42.8mpg* (WLTP). The 1.5­litre i­VTEC powertrain employs Honda’s VTEC (Variable Timing and Lift Electronic Control) and VTC (Variable Timing Control) technologies, complemented by strong tumble intake ports and an optimised piston shape to provide benefits in output and efficiency.

For the latest model, it has been further enhanced by ‘advanced plateau honing’, that lowers the friction level between the pistons and the cylinder bores by creating an ultra­smooth surface. Its timing chain guides also feature a new friction­reducing coating, which further helps to reduce long­term wear and boost engine efficiency.

A new addition to the 2019 HR­V line­up is the powerful 1.5­litre VTEC TURBO engine, which was first seen in the latest generation Honda Civic. This power unit is only available on the new HR­V Sport . This four­cylinder engine gives the compact SUV enhanced performance, with peak power of 182 PS (134 kW) at 5,500 rpm. Equipped with a sixspeed manual (6MT) as standard, maximum torque of 240 Nm is delivered between 1,900 rpm and 5,000 rpm. With the optional CVT, 220 Nm is delivered between 1,700 rpm and 5,500 rpm.

The HR­V Sport 6MT accelerates from 0­62 mph in 7.8 seconds and will go on to a top speed of 133 mph. When equipped with the optional CVT gearbox, acceleration from 0­62 mph takes 8.6 seconds, and the top speed is 124 mph. The HR­V Sport has CO2 emissions from 151g/km* (WLTP) (from 135g/km NEDC Correlated) and combined cycle fuel economy from 39.8mpg to 42.2mpg* (WLTP).

This efficient diesel engine incorporates extensive technologies that reduce friction, improve emissions and increase fuel economy.
The 1,597cc engine features a small, highefficiency turbocharger, low­pressure EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) system and a highintake flow, high­swirl cylinder head port.

A high­strength, lightweight slender crankshaft and all­aluminium, open­deck, high­pressure, die­cast engine block also help to keep the engine’s weight as low as possible. Powered by the diesel engine – which generates 120 PS at 4,000 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm – the new HR­V accelerates to 62 mph in just 10.0 seconds, placing it among the most dynamic vehicles in its class.

Fuel economy ranges from 54.3mpg to 56.5mpg* (WLTP data) with combined cycle CO2 emissions from 132g/km* (WLTP) (from 105g/km NEDC Correlated). Both the petrol and diesel engines are equipped with a six­speed manual transmission as standard. A lightweight and high­rigidity shaft improves the overall efficiency of the transmission, while a shorter gear throw than other SUVs in the segment provides a sportier feel.

Available as an option for the two 1.5­litre petrol engines, Honda’s popular CVT offers anatural ‘multi­gear’ feel through the use of control software – exclusive to Europe – which simulates seven speeds, and provides optimised gear change mapping.

Honda’s turbine twin­damper torque converter technology further enhances the optional CVT, which reduces the fluctuation in torque input to the transmission, improving durability as well as NVH management. It delivers a more direct response to engine speed, which results in a more linear feel for the driver.
Two software features also provide situation­specific enhancements. Firstly, Early Downshift During Braking (EDDB) utilises the engine to assist the driver during braking. When the system recognises a deceleration downhill, or in a cornering situation initiated by the braking system, EDDB automatically increases the engine speed to provide engine braking.

This then allows for quick acceleration after controlled braking or after cornering. Secondly, Fast Off measures how quickly the driver releases the accelerator pedal and maintains engine revs to provide engine braking in situations where the driver has released the pedal quickly. This system has been extensively tested for Europe’s high speed, multilane roads. For example, Fast Off recognises when the driver has prepared to pass a vehicle in front, but is unable to complete the manoeuvre due to a vehicle in the next lane.

As the driver quickly releases the accelerator pedal to let the vehicle behind pass by, Fast Off maintains a high engine speed in preparation for completing the overtaking manoeuvre.

HR­V buyers in Europe will benefit from Honda’s Synaptic Damping Control (SDC) system, which was introduced for the first time in the 2015 HR­V. Fitted to all models as standard, the system enhances both ride comfort and handling by modifying damping force according to the road surface and driving conditions.

Dynamic tuning for the 2019 HR­V builds on a highly rigid platform and bodyshell, which includes high­strength steel for 27% of the body. The stiff bodyshell gives the standard suspension (MacPherson struts at the front and an H­type torsion beam at the rear) a solid foundation, which – together with a low centre of gravity and minimised body roll – delivers a reassuring solidity and inspires a feeling of security when driving.

The HR­V’s motion adaptive electric power­assisted steering system helps to minimise understeer, working in parallel with the low roll centre at the front suspension and the higher roll centre at the rear. The result is exceptionally linear driving behaviour making HRV one of the most confidence­inspiring cars in the crossover segment, especially when driven enthusiastically.

Powerful and stable stopping power for the HR­V is assured with an all­disc braking system, featuring 293 mm ventilated front discs and 282 mm solid discs at the rear. Electronic aids which boost braking power and enhance vehicle stability include: Anti­Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, Vehicle Stablity Assist and Hill Start Assist.

Honda has developed the HR­V Sport model to cater for owners who want a more dynamic driving experience from their subcompact SUV. As part of an upgrade package that aims to optimise the balance of body rigidity, suspension control and steering feel, the HR­V Sport is equipped with bespoke 'Performance Damper' technology.
The damper system, integrated at the front and rear of the car, is engineered to counteract the relative lateral and torsional movement through the chassis. It keeps the car flatter through corners, enhances stability during sudden lane changes and reduces vibration over uneven roads. The HR­V Sport also boasts a bespoke steering set­up, employing a variable­ratio electric power­assisted rack­and­pinion system, which is complemented by Honda's Agile Handling Assist technology. It delivers a steady response at on­centre and near­centre steering angles, and a smoother response at off­centre steering angles.

The Honda HR­V’s interior layout is tailored to the dynamic and demanding preferences of the modern and discerning consumer. The latest model remains as versatile as ever, including the carry­over of Honda’s innovative Magic Seat system. Honda’s team has balanced class­leading interior space, ease of use and storage space with dynamic and emotional design. HR­V boasts an interior packed with functionality but also with a sense of personal space and fun. Roomy and incredibly versatile, the HR­V’scabin brings the virtues of an MPV into the crossover segment while providing a driving position which engenders a sense of agility and dynamism.

The foundation of the HR­V’s spacious and versatile interior is Honda’s centre­mounted fuel tank layout. This space­efficient innovative packaging mounts the low profile fuel tank under the front seats, which frees up the underfloor space beneath the rear seats. This enables the platform to accommodate Honda’s Magic Seat system, also available on the Honda Jazz.
The Magic Seat system allows each of the 60:40 split second­row seats to adopt numerous configurations to maximise the people and load carrying versatility of the cavernous interior. The Magic Seat system can adopt one of three ‘modes’ from the standard seating position.

the rear seat back folds forward as the seat base itself lowers into the rear passenger footwell, creating a maximum 1,845 mm­long flat floor.

the front of the rear seat base rises up and back and is locked in a vertical position to leave a cargo height of 1,240 mm from floor to ceiling, allowing tall objects to be placed behind the front seats.

the front passenger seat back folds back to a horizontal position, while the rear seat back folds forward, forming a ‘tunnel’ to accommodate items up to 2,445 mm long.

Occupants will appreciate the class­leading cabin space, with headroom, legroom and shoulder room in the front and rear so generous that they match the dimensions more commonly found in larger vehicles. The cargo bay also offers impressive space with a capacity of up to 470* litres with the rear seats upright, increasing to up to 1,103* litres with the rear seats folded.

The HR­V’s wide tailgate opening (1,180 mm) and low loading height (650 mm) ensure that the capacious cargo space is easily accessible. Travelling long distances in the HR­V is a comfortable and fatigue­free experience for the driver and passengers thanks to Honda engineers’ determination to provide this model with class­best levels of refinement.
Furthermore, the 2019 HR­V sees the introduction of redesigned seats for the driver and front passenger, which incorporate changes to the seatcushion and back rest, providing enhanced overall support – especially for the shoulder area.

The HR­V’s interior marries divergent themes, striving to achieve spaciousness, reassuring solidity and – for the driver – a cockpit with the wraparound feel of a coupé.
The expansive, airy cabin is fitted with high quality, soft­touch surfaces, subtly accented with brushed chrome highlights and sophisticated stitching lines to provide a premium ambience.

The dashboard design combines a solid feel with premium detailing, including a piano­black feature panel that emphasises the sense of quality, class and refinement.
For the 2019 HR­V, new seats for the driver and front passenger provide enhanced support in the seat cushion and back rest. Standard fabric upholstery is now fashioned from higher­quality material, while higher grade models feature a combination of fabric and leather with double stitching for a more appealing finish. Top­grade cars have a full leather interior as standard. Inside the dedicated HR­V Sport model, the seats are trimmed in a unique two­tone black fabric and dark red leather combination, and it also features gloss black trim finishes for the lower dashboard and centre console panels. Black roof lining adds to the dynamic interior of the model, Facing the driver, a three­dial instrument binnacle features ‘floating’ illumination rings and Honda’s ECO Assist function, which changes the backlight colour of the speedometer from white to green during fuel­efficient driving.

window; low volume for the centre outlet; and medium volume for the air outlet closest to the centre panel.

The sense of spaciousness is amplified on top­grade models in the new HR­V line­up by the availability of a unique­in­class opening panoramic glass sunroof. With one­touch opening tilt and slide operation, the 846 mm­long panoramic sunroof features a sliding sunshade that opens automatically with the roof and can be closed manually to block sunlight. The front section – which tilts to a height of 27.5 mm at its rear – measures 475 mm in length. Honda’s ‘Smart Touch Interior’ enables operation of frequent functions with the smallest movement and effort. These functions include: Electric Park Brake, Touch Panel Climate Control and One­Touch Indicators.

Seamless connectivity and infotainment is provided in the HR­V by the Honda Connect system, first seen in Europe on the 2015 CR­V. It is fitted as standard on the mid and upper grade HR­V, and as an option on the base model. Easy and intuitive to use, the system is accessed through a seven­inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash.
The display can be customised to suit individual preferences, with two different ‘skins‘ to choose from, allowing users to make the system their own. Colourcoded icons ensure navigating through menus is quick and simple.
The Honda Connect system comes with pre­installed apps, with others available for download from the Honda App Centre for owners to personalise their connected experience. The pre­installed ‘Aha’ app allows effortless access to thousands of audio stations – spanning music, news, podcasts and audio books – as well as social media feeds and location­based services. In addition, the Honda Connect system features extensive options for synchronising with smartphones and other personal multimedia devices: WiFi, Bluetooth, HDMI, Also available as standard higher grades Honda offers HR­V buyers a fully­integrated Garmin satellite navigation system. HR­V base models are fitted as standard with a five­inch LCD colour display screen in the centre of the dashboard and a 160­watt AM/FM/CD Audio system with four speakers

The HR­V’s highly efficient acoustic insulation package has been improved for 2019 by adding greater levels of insulating material around the car, including around the front bulkhead and wheel arches, the boot structure, and both front and rear door panels. It incorporates top quality, non­woven underlay and sound­absorbing carpets of a type usually found only in high­grade premium vehicles. Furthermore, the floor carpet, underfloor cover and dashboard acoustic pad inserts all contribute to achieving a refined and relaxing atmosphere throughout the cabin.

At a constant speed of 62mph, occupants experience a whisper­quiet 65 dB of cabin noise. Depending on model grade, the new HR­V is also be equipped with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) for the first time. ANC is designed to reduce low­frequency noise in the interior by monitoring for such noises using two in­cabin microphones, and then cancelling them out with precisely­timed ‘reverse phase’ audio signals through the speakers. On the Sport model with manual transmission Active Sound Control is applied. Active Sound Control has the same ability as Active Noise Cancellation and also operates throughout the rest of the engines speed range, where it can tune the sound heard when accelerating

The HR­V platform incorporates Honda’s exclusive ACE™ (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) body design, which employs a network of connected structural elements to distribute crash energy more evenly. This design helps to reduce the forces transferred to the passenger cell in the event of an impact, giving superior front, side and rear crashworthiness. ACE™ also helps minimise the potential for under­ride or over­ride situations that can happen during head­on or offset frontal impacts with a larger or smaller vehicle. Every new HR­V sold in Europe is equipped with a total of eight airbags, maximising occupant protection. The front, side and full­length curtain airbags are all advanced ‘intelligent’ designs and are triggered only when absolutely necessary. The front seat head restraints are designed to reduce the effects of whiplash injury.