The Age of Reason: We’ve Got the Latest Electric Honda HR-V. tested

Like other manufacturers, Honda has set itself ambitious goals for the coming years. By 2050, all activities of the brand must be climate neutral. For this reason all new models that have come on the market since this year will be electrified. The Honda HR-V is one of them.

The first generation HR-V in 1999 made a lasting impression with its three-door design and reduced window areas relative to the body. The 2022 HR-V also showcases inspired lines with short overhangs, a long hood and a coupe-like appearance by the rear door handles integrated into the door jamb. The vehicle exudes dynamism and stands out in the highly competitive environment of this segment.

Inside, on the other hand, the soufflé sags a bit. The layout is classic, uniform black prevails if the chosen upholstery is not kept in a light shade. Fortunately, the materials are well made, they feel comfortable and the ergonomics are well thought out. The multimedia system reacts quickly and is particularly intuitive when it comes to navigation.

The interior has a generous amount of space and offers a high level of comfort in general, including in the rear seat. The luggage compartment, on the other hand, has only an average volume of between 319 and 1305 liters due to the steeply sloping rear window. Honda solves this inconvenience with the Magic Seats, namely the possibility to raise the rear seat cushion to be able to load (very) large items from the rear doors. Well thought out!

Under the hood, the Honda HR-V has a single all-hybrid powertrain, the e:HEV. It consists of a 107 hp 1.5-litre four-cylinder that is connected to two electrical units (motor and generator). The battery is located under the rear floor. The total power is 131 hp with a torque of 253 Nm, which is distributed only to the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes 10.6 seconds. While these stats don’t really make the car a storm of flashbulbs, they’re enough for family use and other things matter more.

The e:HEV powertrain does not require a conventional gearbox and uses either electricity only when needed, or a hybrid powertrain where the combustion engine drives the generator, or if all resources are needed and the speed exceeds 80 km/h, the combustion engine in direct connection with the wheels. All this happens without the driver having to intervene. The electronics itself measures which type of drive is most efficient, depending on the driving style.

In practice, most urban and suburban journeys are made with a smooth and fluid driving style with electric drive or at higher speeds with hybrid drive. The combustion engine is only used permanently on highways. According to Honda, this technical solution of the e:HEV makes it possible to avoid plug-in hybrid assemblies, which are bulkier, heavier and more cumbersome for the user. We measured average values ​​between 4 l/100 km with normal driving and Econ mode and up to 6.5 l/100 km with more lively driving and activated sport mode. Amazing, right?

The Honda HR-V is available from CHF 34,590 in the basic Elegance version and from CHF 40,590 with the top model Advance Style.

Source: Blick