Next-Gen Honda HR-V Could be India-bound to Rival Seltos and Creta

Compact SUVs are quite a hit in India. Honda has previously introduced the WR-V in our country, which had received quite a brilliant response in our market. On the other hand, the current-gen HR-V has been quite popular internationally, and was being waited for even by the Indian audience. However, late last year, it emerged that the C-SUV wasn't India-bound anytime soon, at least in its current form. Now, however, it looks like Honda could instead bring the next generation of this model to our shores.

New-Generation Honda HR-V is reportedly under development

The HR-V is Honda’s internationally-sold compact SUV. It was first introduced back in 1999 exclusively for the Japanese market. The next-generation model then had a global debut in 2014. Now, after 6 years of production, it is about to receive a generation change. According to a few reports, the development of a next-gen model has already begun. Although it cannot be confirmed yet, the new model is expected to debut during the first quarter of 2021.

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The next-gen Honda HR-V will reportedly have two body-styles on offer. The first will be a regular SUV, just like the WR-V and CR-V we have in India. The second one will be a coupe-styled SUV, much like the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC-coupe. The two versions will probably be sold in separate markets, although there could be a place in the European market for both to coexist simultaneously. It's also possible that Honda might only build a coupe-styled version, although that would be unlikely.

Honda HR-V has quite a sharp-looking exterior

According to a few sources, the new HR-V will be based on the same platform as the new-generation Honda Fit (Honda Jazz). The new Fit was recently launched in Japan with two engine options. The first one is a 1.3-litre naturally-aspirated motor with 98 PS and 118 Nm of peak power and maximum torque respectively. It comes mated to a CVT automatic, with no manual gearbox on offer at the moment. The second option is a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol-hybrid powertrain. It can generate 109 PS and 253 Nm, and is paired to an electric motor. There is a 4WD system on offer as an optional extra. The same engines are expected to show up under the hood of the new HR-V.

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The current-generation HR-V is a smart-looking SUV with compact dimensions. The length of the cars is 4,335 mm, its width 1,770 mm, and height 1,605 mm. Its wheelbase is 2,610 mm long and the kerb weight is between 1,180 to 1,270 kg. Upon launch, the HR-V will rival the likes of Kia Seltos, Hyundai Creta, and Mahindra XUV500.