The current-generation Honda HR-V has been on the market for nearly three years, undergoing a significant transformation in 2022 for its third generation. Its sporty, coupe-like silhouette, premium upgrades, and improved performance have proven to be a winning combination, with Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. experiencing a surge in demand during its early months.
I’ve spent nearly a month with the HR-V RS, a test unit clocking close to 20,000 km. My impressions of this crossover remain consistent after adding 2,000 km to its odometer. The exterior boasts bold enhancements to its athletic character, while the interior offers thoughtful touches for modern lifestyles. Coupled with a turbocharged engine and Honda’s suite of advanced safety features, the HR-V RS delivers both form and function. However, it isn’t perfect and is undoubtedly ripe for a facelift—one that’s particularly important, I must say.
Sporty & Sophisticated Look
The HR-V RS stands out with a bold front grille featuring a striking red accent line on the lower bumper, a signature of its sporty character. Full LED headlights with daytime running lights and sequential turn signals enhance visibility and aesthetics. The 18-inch alloy wheels and dual tailpipe finishers emphasize its athletic stance, while gloss-black side sills and smoked LED tail lights underline its premium appeal. While newer counterparts may turn heads in parking lots, few can rival the HR-V’s presence, particularly in its RS trim.
The current-generation HR-V doesn’t demand drastic changes to its exterior. It remains modern and relevant compared to its rivals, which is a testament to its timeless design. That’s a positive, as the facelifted model appears to only bring minor tweaks rather than a complete overhaul.
Elevated for Modern Needs
Inside, the HR-V RS combines sophistication with practicality. Leather seats with red stitching, sport pedals, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat reflect its premium positioning. The centerpiece is an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster provides vital information at a glance. Improved rear legroom—35 mm more than the previous generation—and versatile cargo configurations courtesy of Honda’s ULT (Utility, Long, Tall) seats enhance passenger comfort and utility. Dual-zone automatic climate control and rear A/C vents with USB charging ports ensure rear occupants aren’t overlooked.
For a small family of five, including three kids, the HR-V’s cargo space is sufficient, needing no upgrades. However, some areas call for improvement in the facelift. The touchscreen should be upgraded to capacitive touch, a wireless charger added for a clutter-free cabin, and USB-C charging ports included as standard. One downside unlikely to change is the limited headroom, which may feel cramped for taller passengers.
Exceptional Turbocharged Performance
The HR-V RS is powered by a 1.5-liter VTEC turbocharged engine, delivering 175 horsepower and 240 Nm of torque. Paired with a CVT, it offers smooth power delivery and quick acceleration, making it well-suited for both city drives and highway overtakes. The Variable Gear Ratio (VGR) steering system enhances stability and precision, particularly on winding roads.
Driving modes—Normal, Econ, and Sport—tailor performance to the driver’s needs. Sport mode sharpens throttle response and steering feedback for spirited driving, while paddle shifters make twisty roads more engaging. The suspension strikes a commendable balance between sportiness and comfort, and it’s reasonable to expect similar performance in the facelifted model.
The current powertrain is impressive, but Honda’s e:HEV hybrid system could be a game-changer if introduced in the facelift. This system has already proven its worth in the Civic and CR-V. On fuel economy, the HR-V RS averaged 10 km/L during my 2,000 km of mixed driving—respectable for a compact SUV but not significantly better than smaller Honda models like the Brio.
Honda SENSING at the Core
The HR-V RS comes equipped with Honda SENSING, an advanced driver-assistance suite. Features like collision mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, adaptive cruise control, and LaneWatch enhance safety and reduce driver fatigue, especially during long trips. With six airbags and other safety technologies, the HR-V RS ensures peace of mind for all passengers.
The facelift is expected to include an upgraded Honda SENSING suite, similar to the one introduced in the Civic Hybrid. This enhancement would add more value and improve the SUV’s appeal, especially for safety-conscious buyers.
Still a Worthy Contender, But Ripe for a Facelift
Despite the rise of more affordable and tech-packed rivals, particularly from China, the Honda HR-V RS remains a strong contender in the small SUV segment. Its combination of style, comfort, and advanced features makes it an appealing choice for families and urban drivers. Priced at ₱1,739,000, the current HR-V RS is aging gracefully, but it’s not without room for improvement.
The upcoming facelift promises significant upgrades in technology and possibly a hybrid powertrain. While Honda Cars Philippines has yet to announce its official arrival, it’s an exciting prospect. If priced competitively and equipped with the e:HEV system, the refreshed HR-V RS could be the compact SUV to beat—making it worth the wait and consideration for discerning buyers like me.
