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Honda’s new HR-V Hybrid e:HEV L SUV – highly priced but highly equipped

David Berthon

Talking about the new third generation Honda HR-V – this small SUV now available in two models – I drove the top-grade e:HEV L Hybrid at $45,000 drive-away.

A non-negotiable price at the top of the small SUV class but there’s much to like with this new model. Styling that’s refreshingly different, especially the painted grille, and a body that offers four passengers class leading space and luggage capacity. The Honda HRV Hybrid combines an Atkinson cycle 1.5-litre petrol engine with two compact electric motors delivering 96kW of power, 253 Nm of torque.

This is not a plug-in hybrid but one that constantly cycles between electric drive, hybrid drive or engine drive depending on the driving situation – the electric drive limited but in hybrid drive the power from the petrol driven generator can be directed to recharge the battery – you can also select B drive which also offers selectable levels of recharge whilst braking or coasting.

The transition between electric and petrol barely perceptible with final drive through a CVT or continuously variable automatic. Economy – I matched the stated combined cycle economy of 4.3L/100km. It’s a pity that pricing will limit its sales however this small hybrid Honda HRV SUV reflects the technically interesting Honda of old in so many ways.

I’m David Berthon.

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David Berthon
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