2018 Honda HR-V Gets A New Engine and Refreshed Face

Honda’s HR-V subcompact crossover came redesigned in 2015, so we were pretty surprised when we found that the carmaker plans to introduce the updated model. However, this way they clearly show that show determination to set the 2018 Honda HR-V at the very top of the class. According to our insider, the refreshed crossover won’t change a lot, but it will be essentially better. This is because the Japanese manufacturer plans to boost both, the technology and performance of the facelifted SUV.

2018 Honda HR-V: Changes and Improvements

The exterior design will receive just some changes in the front and rear ends. In the front, Honda’s smallest SUV will get the same treatment as the next generation CR-V. They will add the redesigned and longer grille that will make the fascia a lot more aggressive. In addition, the headlights should become a bit slimmer, while the front bumper could get a bit wider air intake. The carmaker won’t change profile at all, yet the rear might be slightly restyled. The new taillights should sport a new design or perhaps just the new graphics, while the rear bumper might be more pronounced.

As for the interior, the 2018 Honda HR-V will definitely improve the overall impression. The cab needs look more upscale, so the will likely change a lot. There will be better quality materials and definitely the all*-new upholstery, while the new infotainment system could get dual-screen treatment.

2018 Honda HR-V Will Get A 1.5-Liter Turbo

The most important part of this mid-cycle facelift will happen under the hood of the 2018 HR-V. It’s because the current 1.8-liter engine doesn’t provide any excitement at all. Basically, toady’s 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft may satisfy just some of the drivers, yet we think that the crossover desperately needs more power. Honda has a pretty good solution to solve the “impotency” problem. They will likely add a new 1.5-liter turbo mill that will deliver around 174 horsepower. Still, in contrast to the 1.8-liter engine that will continue to offer both CVT and six-speed manual, the new drivetrain will use only the continuously variable automatic transmission. Of course, the front-wheel drive will be standard, while you can choose an optional all-wheel drive.

Estimated Price and Arrival

Judging by the latest reports, the updated 2018 Honda HR-V will be introduced in early 2018, most likely at the 2018 Detroit Auto Show. The base model will definitely keep the current price, which is around $19,400.