Honda HR-V Mugen

The HR-V got my attention the first time I saw it at its launch some time back. Something about a stylish crossover SUV that leaned more towards the sporty side of the spectrum has its appeal, so when I got word that I’d have the Mugen version to test, I have to admit, I got excited. Here are my thoughts after a week on the road with the car.

- Ren Alcantara

DESIGN

If you thought the HR-V was a looker, wait until you see the Mugen version. The already sleek lines are made even more so thanks to a more solid front grille and under spoiler that continues on to the sides and rear, a lower wing spoiler, and a ventilated visor. Just so people don’t miss it, it’s emblazoned with the Mugen badge on the rear. The wheels also get tricked out, though the latticework details on them doesn’t quite do it for me. Overall though, Honda manages to dress the HR-V up nicely, without going overboard, or making the vehicle look like a 17-year-old’s toy car.

Inside, you have an appropriate level of trim to match the outside. Leather seats, leather on the steering wheel, and blue accent lighting on some surfaces all make for a very posh-feeling interior. Shiny metallic trim around the control buttons, the shifter and A/C vents all add to the visual impact.

HARDWARE

The Mugen version of the HR-V has the same heart as the other models. It’s a 1.8-Liter 16-valve affair that’s mated to a CVT with Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology. The power plant puts out 141 hp at 6500 rpm, and 172 Nm of torque at 4300 rpm. This is able to propel the crossover to 201 kph, according to the manufacturer.