2018 Honda HR-V pricing and features announced

Honda has freshened up its HR-V small SUV by adding autonomous emergency braking as standard across the range. The lineup also expands to four distinct grades, with a sporty RS variant and high-spec VTi-LX joining the existing VTi, VTi-S. With the arrival of the RS and VTi-LX at the top end of the HR-V totem pole, the VTi-L badge has been retired.

5

As the entry-level variant, the $24,990 VTi has LED daytime running lights, remote keyless entry, single-zone climate control, emergency stop signal, customisable speed alarm, electric parking brake with hill hold and a steering column that adjusts for reach and rake.

Starting at $27,990, the VTi-S adds 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, rear parking sensors, LED front fog lights, LED headlights with auto on/off functionality, chrome interior finishes, smart entry with push button start and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and leather gear knob. All of the features of the VTi and VTi-S are carry-over, however, with no new equipment additions for the 2018 model year for those two models.

The new RS model grade replaces the VTi-L, and has a revised steering ratio for a more dynamic feel. Retailing at $31,990 it boasts 18-inch alloy sports wheels, a unique front grille finished in dark chrome, black mirror caps, dark chrome door handles, honeycomb front lower grille and foglamp garnish, a piano black body kit, privacy glass on the rear doors and the RS badge, along with leather seats for all passengers, heated front seats, a leather steering wheel, and sports pedals.

5

As the flagship, the VTi-LX adds chrome door handles and a panoramic sunroof on top of the RS’ specification and is priced at $34,590.

All variants feature the same seven-inch colour infotainment touchscreen, which includes sat-nav and Bluetooth connectivity as standard. Honda’s automatic emergency braking system, dubbed Honda City-Brake Active System, is also now standard across the range.

The safety system provides audio and visual warnings to the driver when it detects a potential collision, before applying the brakes. Forward collision warning, high-beam support, and lane departure warning are also standard safety additions for all models, significantly expanding the HR-V’s suite of satefy technology.

Each HR-V features Honda’s unique ‘magic seats’ feature which can be configured into 18 different combinations, which can be used to produce a maximum luggage capacity of 1533-litres with a completely flat (and low) boot floor, or flip the rear seat base vertically to allow tall items to be carried upright.

There’s nothing new to see under the bonnet, however. All HR-Vs continue to be powered by a 1.8-litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 105kW and 172Nm. A CVT automatic remains the sole transmission on offer, and sends power to the front wheels exclusively. Unlike some compact SUVs, the HR-V lacks an AWD option. All models record a 6.9L/100km combined fuel consumption figure.

5

PRICING

The sticker price for the HR-V is for non-metallic paint. Opting for premium paints attract a $665 charge on all bar the RS variant, which features metallic colours as standard.

• HR-V VTi: $24,990
• HR-V VTi-S: $27,990
• HR-V RS: $31,990
• HR-V VTi-LX: $34,590