Opinion – Time machines: Honda presents the new generation of the HR-V compact utility vehicle; see photos

The 2023 Honda HR-V arrives on the market with the most profound change since its launch in 2015. The new generation of urban SUV presents significant evolution behind the wheel, but loses space in the trunk.

The car was presented at the Honda factory in Sumaré, but its production is carried out in Itirapina. Both cities are in the interior of São Paulo.

The first versions that hit the stores have the same 1.5 flex engine (126 hp) used in the City. Sales will begin in August, when prices will be announced. Values ​​should start at R$ 130,000.

In October it will be the turn of the turbocharged 1.5-liter options, which will have around 180 hp and can also be fueled with ethanol or gasoline.

The difference between the models with and without turbo is in the front grille, which is of the honeycomb type in the more powerful options and with horizontal friezes in the simpler models.

There are other visual changes. The taillights are now narrow and interconnected by a smoked acrylic bar. The new headlights feature LED lamps in all four versions that will be available.

The curvature of the roof reinforces the coupe style of Honda’s urban SUV, without compromising cabin space. But the trunk had the capacity reduced from 437 to 354 liters.

Previously available in the Touring version, the sunroof is no longer offered. Honda says consumer surveys have not pointed to the equipment as something desired, but the used car market shows that demand for models with this item is high.

Although less powerful than the old 1.8 flex option (140 hp), the new HR-V 1.5 flex proved to be in a good mood in its first test. Honda set up an evaluation circuit inside the Sumaré factory.

The available version was the EXL, the most equipped among the options without a turbo engine. The Sensing system – which, among other functions, can brake the car to avoid a collision – is standard. There are also six airbags, a multimedia system that connects to cell phones with Android or IOS systems, leather-covered seats and push-button start.

The seats preserve the modularity of the past, and it is possible to carry even a surfboard in the cabin. The cabin feels more spacious than before, although it basically retains the same dimensions as the previous model.

The EXL version’s light-alloy wheels are darkened, with a 17-inch rim. The design is very simple, with a strange contrast between the tone of the spokes and that of the core, where the Honda logo is.

In motion, the car was pleased by the silence on board. The noise of the CVT-type automatic transmission (which simulates seven gears) is more distant and muffled.

In a sequence of curves between cones, the suspension proved to be firmer. In general, the new HR-V is a much better car than the previous one, but the loss of space in the trunk can hinder sales.

For the public that wants more space – and can get around R$ 200,000 for that – the automaker will offer the ZR-V, which will be imported from Mexico as a 2023 line.