The facelifted Honda HR-V has arrived in Mzansi. Here’s what you can expect from the updated model line-up…
Following our initial launch review of the new-generation Honda HR-V in 2022, we were handed the key fob to the third iteration in 2023 to spend some additional time behind its wheel — you know, to spend some more time with it and, notably, report back on how it is to live with on the daily.
In this write-up, we noted that the new HR-V turns heads: “The refreshed look makes this HR-V stand out in a way that Hondas have struggled to do recently,” we said, adding that the HR-V’s coupé-styled bodywork’s sleek lines make it a good-looking crossover/SUV. We also mentioned how well the HR-V is suited for families; proving sufficiently capacious for outings, weekly shopping, and the school run.
We did have a couple of gripes with the Honda, the most significant of which is its continuously variable transmission (CVT), which we noted “takes some time getting used to”.
The current-generation HR-V was exclusively available with this transmission option and the Japanese automaker’s 89 kW/145 N.m naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, four-cylinder petrol engine. A duo of trim lines was on offer: Comfort and Executive, priced from R469 000 and R554 500, respectively, when launched on South African shores.
Honda has now introduced the refreshed fourth-generation HR-V model range to the South African market. The key words here are “refreshed”, “model” and “range”. See, the company has cut the previous two-strong line-up to include only one derivative, “offering the ideal balance of price and features”, the local arm of the brand says.
Priced from a hair below R540 000, the Elegance model retains the pre-facelifted variants powertrain, transmission and front-wheel drivetrain, but gains several exterior and interior upgrades. The former includes a redesigned front grille, finished in the same hue as that specified for the bodywork, high-gloss lower front bumper garnish, full LED lighting for the rear light strip spanning the tailgate, and new 18-inch alloy wheels. The exterior colour palette includes two pearlescent and three metallic colour options.
Key interior revisions include “eco-friendly” leather upholstery for the seats, a redesigned centre console, which features a USB-A and USB-C port, and a 15 W wireless smartphone charging bay. The 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system now include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
How much does the facelifted Honda HR-V cost in South Africa?
The facelifted HR-V is priced from R539 900, which includes a five-year/200 000 km warranty and four-year/60 000 km service plan.
