Honda Unveils 2023 HR-V for North America
Honda has released limited details and imagery of North America’s refreshed 2023 HR-V utility, showcasing its new looks and hinting at its updated powertrain.
The 2023 HR-V will be the utility’s second generation, debuting with larger proportions than its predecessor; namely a wider stance, larger grille and a longer hood. This version differs from the relatively-recent refresh of the Euro-market’s HR-V.
"By gaining aspirational qualities beyond its segment, the all-new 2023 Honda HR-V will welcome a new generation of customers to Honda and grow in importance as a gateway to the Honda brand," said Michael Kistemaker, assistant vice president of Automobile Sales of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "This new HR-V will advance its position as the segment leader with young buyers, first-time buyers, and multicultural customers."
Honda says the 2023 HR-V has the “space and utility for an adventurous weekend escape, yet nimble to maneuver city streets.” It’s based on the 11th generation Honda Civic, winner of our 2022 Driver’s Choice Award for Best Family Sedan. We can confirm the new HR-V will utilize an independent rear suspension, likely thanks to the platform switch; however, exact powertrain details are yet to be disclosed, though it wouldn’t be a far stretch to see the Civic’s 1.5-liter inline-four make an appearance.
The new powertrain is said to be more responsive than the current-gen’s 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine. Paired off with a CVT transmission, the current HR-V can be configured as either front or all-wheel drive; we imagine similar configurations will be available for 2023. The new model is to be carried by a new independent rear suspension, said to inspire more confidence on the road.
The HR-V’s design is “ambitious with a strong sense of adventure,” according to Honda. This is characterized by a series of design choices, such as the low hanging horizontal beltline which starts upfront and extends back towards the rear fenders. In the front, wide-set LED headlights surround the opened up grille; similarly wide taillights accentuate the rear. The HR-V is built with a large greenhouse, providing greater visibility, said to be enhanced by new door-mounted mirrors and the extended hood’s low cowl.
More subtly, the next-gen model will eliminate certain protrusions for a cleaner presence. The best example of this may be the roof, void of any molding artifacts thanks to laser-brazing technology incorporated during the manufacturing process. Similarly, the windshield wipers hide under the hoodline when not in use.
The 2023 Honda HR-V is slated for a summer 2022 launch; we’ll have more details on the new model soon on MotorWeek!