Honda on Monday unveiled the latest design for the 2023 HR-V subcompact crossover SUV. The smallest crossover in Honda’s lineup predicts the upcoming redesign of the 2023 Pilot and 2023 CR-V, which are Honda’s best-selling SUVs.
Details were scarce, with Honda only revealing what the second-generation HR-V would look like when it launches this summer. In contrast to the model released last year for the global market, the 2023 HR-V sails to North America and promises to be even bigger and mounted on a larger wheelbase and with a wider track.
It shares a platform with the redesigned 2022 Honda Civic, which is larger than its predecessor. Honda says the HR-V will have a more responsive engine and an independent rear suspension, but can’t wait to see if the new HR-V158-HP will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-4 or 180-hp 1.5. The Litter Turbo-4 has been given to the new CV.
The current HR-V is an anemic 141-hp 1.8-liter inline-4 using a CVT and front-wheel drive or available all-wheel drive. The Global HR-V hybrid or 1.5-liter Inline-4, which was sold in Japan last year, may be included.
What is known about the 2023 HR-V is that it no longer attaches the rear door handles to the rear window frame. The small crossover will have four traditional door handles in a lower beltline that rises to the rear. An integrated rear roof spoiler completes the SUV profile. Honda mentions a large greenhouse, door-mounted side mirrors, and a lower cowl that can improve external vision. A new front fascia plays an interlacing grille and narrow LED headlights that wrap around.
It looks more like a Toyota Corolla Cross than the Toyota C-HR. With the exception of the HR-V, Honda makes its vehicles wider than the segment average, with clever packaging and a larger number of passengers than most competitors. It is reasonable to expect the same from the redesigned CR-V and the pilot.
We will update this story to share more details about Honda 2023 HR-V.