Honda’s HR-V gets all sporty

HONDA’S HR-V will be getting a lot more sporty next year, with the introduction of a dynamic new Sport model which will come with a more powerful 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine, uprated suspension and what the company calls ‘bespoke design features’.

The 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine in the new HR-V Sport was first seen in the latest generation Honda Civic Sport and boasts peak power of 180bhp compared with the HR-V’s standard-fit 128bhp petrol engine. It will be available mated to either a six-speed manual gearbox or CVT auto transmission.

Although Honda has not, as yet, released any performance figures for the HR-V Sport, the same engine provides the Civic Sport manual with a 0-60mph time of around 8.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 137mph.

The HR-V Sport has been developed, says Honda, to cater to buyers who want a sportier driving experience from a subcompact SUV. It will be equipped with bespoke ‘Performance Damper’ technology designed to keep the car flatter through corners with enhanced stability during sudden lane changes, and reduced vibration over uneven roads.

The steering set-up will also be unique to the Sport model and employs a variable ratio electric power-assisted rack-and-pinion system with handling assist technology.

Upgrades to the exterior design include a black honeycomb finish on the front grille which carries over into the fog light surrounds, a slim front splitter, side skirts and a more aggressive rear bumper – all finished in black. Sport trim also includes black door mirror caps, dual exhaust pipes and 18-inch alloy wheels.

LED headlights come as standard and incorporate high and low beams, LED indicators and LED daytime running lights. At the rear, a black chrome garnish across the tailgate mirrors the trim at the front, while the tail lights are enhanced with a dark ‘smoked’ effect.

Inside, new seats for the driver and front passenger provide improved support in the seat cushion and back rest. The dynamic styling continues in the interior with exclusive leather and cloth trimmed seats in black and dark red combined with black roof lining to enhance the sporty appeal.

First customer deliveries are expected next Spring and full specs and prices will be announced nearer to the on-sale date.