Honda ressurects the HR-V
Honda's new compact SUV the Honda HR-V goes on sale on Friday, starting at $32,900 plus on road costs.
There will be six models available, all of them offering what Honda says is more interior space than other compact SUVs in the market.
The interior of the new Honda HR-V models. Picture/Supplied.
The new models, all powered by a 1.8 litre petrol engine, are aimed at the hundreds of new vehicle buyers opting to transfer from either larger SUVs or from sedans and station-wagons.
Honda says the new model "combines the elegance and fluidity of a coupe with the utility and strength of an SUV."
The 4.2-metre long HR-V is designed to appeal across the age spectrum, from young singles, pre-family couples, small families through to relaxed retirees, all who value their lifestyles and are design conscious.
All models are front-wheel-drive, and the engine is coupled with Honda's CVT gearbox, delivering a smooth, quiet and consistent surge of pow
The model has been designed with a low centre of gravity to provide road stability and fuel efficiency.
The centre-mounted fuel tank sits below the front seats, freeing up the underloor space beneath the rear seats. This increases the flat-floor area available in the rear of the SUV.
The models have 437 litres of available space with the rear seats upright, increasing to 1462 litres to the roof line with the rear seats folded down.
The dashboard of the new Honda HR-V models launched this week. Picture/Supplied.
Honda also says the new models feature top quality, non-woven underlay and sound absorbing carpets usually found only in higher grade sedans, while the front and rear inner wheel arches have been treated with sound-absorbent material.
Advanced connectivity and infotainment is provided in the models with a 7 inch Touch Screen Display in the centre of the dashboard. The models are navigation-capable, using cellphone navigation technology.
It is currently compatible with iPhone 5 and above, using a Sygic Navigation software App.
The general manager, marketing for Honda New Zealand, Nadine Bell, said the base HR-V S model would go on sale on Friday for $32,900 plus on-road costs. Prices then increase through to the top of the line HR-V Sport + model, selling for $43,900 plus on-road costs.
The HR-V Sport models, starting at $39,900 plus orc, include a panoramic sky roof, fog lights, 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, keyless entry with push button start/stop, leather seats, front and rear parking sensors, LaneWatch camera, and city brake assist.
Honda is aiming to sell around 700 HR-V models in New Zealand between now and the end of the financial year at the end of March.