After Thailand, Indonesia and Philippines, the new Honda HR-V has been officially launched in Malaysia. The crossover’s latest iteration is offered in 4 variants and 3 powertrain options in Malaysian market.
Related: Honda Civic Quality Control in Pakistan Exposed Yet Again
The base S variant is powered by a 1.5L naturally-aspirated engine and is priced at RM114,800 (PKR 54.14 lac). Then comes the Turbo E (RM129,800/ PKR 61.21 lac) and Turbo V (RM134,800/ PKR 63.57 lac) variants, powered by the 1.5L VTEC Turbo engine. The flagship variant is the RS e:HEV hybrid, priced at RM140,800 (PKR 66.40 lac). All variants are backed by 5-years/ unlimited km warranty, while the hybrid’s lithium-ion battery gets a separate 8-years/ unlimited mileage warranty.
The all new HR-V (known as Vezel in Japanese Domestic Market) is substantially different from its predecessor. The styling is very much coupe-inspired with a sloping rear hatch. Interestingly there is no signature solid wing face up front. The tall, wide headlights and more vertical nose make the car look wider and more imposing while devoid of any creasing it portrays a very clean and minimalistic look.
Inside, the minimalist theme continues with simple dashboard design and full-width air vents and looks similar to the one deployed in the 2022 Civic sedan. The new HR-V is more spacious inside compared to the outgoing model, with Honda claiming +35 mm foot and knee room for rear passengers, who also get a backrest angle that’s two degrees more reclined.
It is also the first vehicle from Honda to feature its new air diffusion system which lets the front air-conditioners output air from the side vents located on either side of the dash instead. This allows for, as Honda puts it, “a pleasant breeze like a convertible vehicle” instead of having air blasting through the main vents in front. AC vents are also located for the back seat passengers.
In terms of safety, Honda Sensing active safety and driver assist suite is standard across the HR-V range, with the latest wide-view camera. Hill descent control makes its debut on the HR-V. Six airbags is from the E onwards, LaneWatch and Honda Connect telematics are from the V up, and the RS gets exclusive kit such as a powered tailgate (with walk-away auto close), auto wipers, dual-zone auto climate control, part-leather upholstery and sports pedals. There’s also a deceleration selector pedal (engine braking) for the hybrid system.
Camouflaged test mules of new Honda HR-V in Pakistan
Related: Honda Atlas Testing the New HR-V
Honda Atlas in Pakistan has been testing the new HR-V as camouflaged test mules have already been spotted multiple times running on the local roads. There is no word on the pricing but the registration data from Punjab excise department shows the test mule price at PKR 60.50 lac. Market speculations suggest that Honda might introduce the new HR-V towards the end of this year but due to the ongoing economic turmoil and government restricting the import of CKD kits to save outflow of previous foreign exchange reserves, the formal launch timeline cannot be confirmed at this stage.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
