The refreshed Honda HR-V is everything we expected—and more

Hot off the heels of the Civic Hybrid's arrival last year, Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) is dead set on bolstering its electrified lineup in the Philippines.

- By JACOB OLIVA

This time, HCPI turned its attention to its smallest crossover, the Honda HR-V, which arrived with a slew of updates for its mid-cycle refresh and Honda's advanced hybrid powertrain, the e:HEV.

Initially introduced in June 2015, the HR-V has sold over 10,000 units as of 2024. Honda wants to increase that further by offering the option to go hybrid in its latest iteration, along with the latest features found in the contemporary models in HCPI's lineup.

ADVANCED POWERTRAIN AND EFFICIENCY

The facelifted HR-V features Honda's state-of-the-art e:HEV hybrid system, designed for optimal fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. The powertrain combines a 1.5-liter Atkinson-cycle DOHC i-VTEC engine (105 hp, 78 kW) with two electric motors and an E-CVT transmission. The electric drive, with an output of 131 hp (96 kW) and 253 Nm of torque, promises seamless acceleration, maximizing the "EV feel" for most driving situations. Meanwhile, the e:HEV system maximizes the efficiency of the combustion engine during highway runs, reserving the electrified boost in demanding situations.