Honda has unveiled the 2022 HR-V in Thailand, which serves as the model’s gateway to the rest of the ASEAN region. The subcompact crossover’s third iteration is initially released as a hybrid in the local market.
Thailand serves as the springboard for the 2022 Honda HR-V's entry to the ASEAN market
This follows the all-new HR-V’s previous debut appearances in Europe and Japan (as the Vezel), with the former exclusively offering the vehicle in hybrid guise. The latest HR-V was also launched in China in October as the e:NS1 and e:NP1, both as electric vehicles (EV). For the ASEAN release, Honda is offering the HR-V in three variants, including a top-spec RS trim.
The Thai release deviates slightly from the other overseas versions by offering with chrome studs on the grille for the range-topping variant, moving the horizontal slats farther down on the front bumper. LED headlamps with integrated sequential turn signals are standard, along with the LED fog lamps on the bottom corners of the front bumper.
The Thai-spec HR-V adopts a chrome-studded grille
A contrast-colored black roof is exclusive to the RS variant, complementing the increased rake on the C-pillar and the prominent body kit surrounding the vehicle. The LED rear lamps are now connected by a light strip spanning the width of the hands-free power tailgate. Honda offers a selection of 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels for the new HR-V.
The cabin provides a breezy atmosphere for up to five occupants, thanks in large part to the large panoramic glass roof. Instead of a retracting interior shade, the covers are removable and divided into two clip-on parts that come with their own storage bag. Touch-activated LED reading lights are mounted on the ceiling to provide additional interior illumination at night.
The 2022 HR-V's cockpit
Honda’s trademark interior flexibility is also in the spotlight, with Ultra Seats featuring Utility, Long, and Tall Modes to balance between carrying passengers and cargo. A cargo box below the rear floor provides additional storage, but the new HR-V removes the spare tire in favor of a tire repair kit.
Right behind the multi-function steering wheel is a new 7-inch TFT multi-information display that shows pertinent vehicle information at a glance. An 8-inch Advanced Touch Display Audio handles multimedia, communications, and navigation requirements, offering support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While up to four USB ports are located throughout the vehicle, wireless charging is an available option.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard on the 8-inch touchscreen
The 2022 HR-V is packed with safety technologies, chief of which is the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist features including Collision Mitigation Braking System, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow, Auto High Beam, and Lane Keeping Assist System. Honda LaneWatch helps drivers monitor blind spots with side mirror-mounted cameras.
All Thai-spec HR-V units come with a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated i-VTEC Atkinson cycle engine that offers 105 horsepower and 127 Nm of torque on tap. Partnered with a lithium-ion battery powering two electric motors, the output goes up to 131 horsepower and 253 Nm of torque.
The 2022 HR-V's power unit combines a 1.5-liter engine with two electric motors
Power goes to the front wheels via an e-CVT automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The system can switch between engine, EV, and Hybrid Drive in conjunction with Normal, Econ, and Sport modes. Regenerative braking charges the battery on the go.
The 2022 Honda HR-V could be arriving in our market by next year
The Thai-spec 2022 Honda HR-V base E variant retails for THB 949,000 (Php 1.44 million). Moving up to the midrange EL costs THB 1.06 million (Php 1.60 million), while the flagship RS carries a price tag of THB 1.12 million (Php 1.70 million). Honda Cars Philippines has yet to confirm whether it will be bringing in the turbocharged or hybrid HR-V for the 2022 model year, so stay tuned for more updates.
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