Honda is preparing a significant redesign of its global HR-V compact SUV, with early glimpses suggesting a bolder, more refined aesthetic – one that notably echoes design elements from high-end vehicles like the Range Rover. A single spy shot, leaked from a Japanese website, reveals key changes to the rear end, hinting at a shift in Honda’s approach to small SUV styling.
Design Shift: From Soft to Sharp
The current HR-V (known as the Vezel in Japan) features rounded edges and a horizontal taillight bar. The next generation appears to adopt flatter surfaces, sharper creases, and more vertical, squared-off taillights. This move represents a departure from the current model’s softer lines, signaling a move towards a more aggressive, modern look. The rear stance also appears more muscular, with pronounced wheel arches but smoother body sides.
The most striking element is a subtle inward taper to the rear bodywork, creating a visual similarity to the Range Rover’s distinct silhouette. This design choice suggests Honda is elevating its compact SUV’s image.
Hidden Features and Hybrid Tech
The leaked image also reveals a curious detail: the absence of a visible rear wiper in its standard location. Instead, there’s a suspicious break in the camouflage, indicating the wiper may be hidden beneath a flap in the rear hatch – a design feature rarely seen outside of high-end cars.
Under the hood, the new HR-V will not be fully electric, but will retain a visible exhaust pipe. However, Honda is expected to lean heavily into hybrid technology, adopting its latest dual-motor hybrid setup. This system offers improved efficiency, reduced weight, and a gear-like feel, mirroring the technology found in the Civic Hybrid and Prelude.
Global vs. U.S. Markets
It’s important to note that this is the next generation of the global HR-V, marketed as the Vezel in Japan. The HR-V sold in the U.S. is a larger model, badged as the ZR-V in many international markets. However, future U.S. versions may inherit some of the same design elements.
The shift towards sharper styling, clever packaging, and hybrid enhancements suggests Honda intends for the new global HR-V to compete in a higher segment than before. The redesign suggests a deliberate effort to raise the model’s perceived value and appeal, potentially bridging the gap between mainstream compact SUVs and more luxury-oriented offerings.
