The famous Japanese manufacturer prepares various changes for the next year and one of them is the 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid. As you probably know, this small crossover came about three years ago, after eight years of break. Since this segment is overfilled with many models, competition is tough. So, the company decided for a facelift. However, this won’t be just a usual mid-cycle update as we used. We will see a completely new, hybrid version of this small crossover. This will definitely be a nice addition to the company’s lineup since small-sized hybrid crossovers aren’t so usual at the moment. There aren’t many manufacturers that offer these kinds of small vehicles. So, besides changes that are usual for these refreshes, we will see a completely new powertrain too. The 2018 HR-V Hybrid will come not only with new styling and interior modifications but also with a new hybrid powertrain.
2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid powertrain
When it comes to the powertrain, 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid will come in a classic manner. We will see a familiar hybrid configuration, which will be consisted of a familiar 1.5-liter gasoline engine and one electric motor. The gasoline unit is a familiar 1.5-liter engine, which is for this occasion good for about 130 horses. It comes in a pair with a 30-hp electric motor that comes with a classic lithium-ion battery. So, you could expect more power and much more torque, compared to the base gasoline engine. When it comes to the performances, expect similar speed and acceleration, but better economy. According to some predictions, the 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid will feature a fuel economy around 63 miles per gallon in combined drive, which is even comparable with diesel engines. Transmission is a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid redesign
As we already mentioned, the company prepares a facelift for the standard gasoline model. The 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid will come with all of these new details. So, we can say that it will feature a brand-new styling. However, if we consider that the current model is present since 2014, it is hard to expect some significant changes. The 2018 HR-V Hybrid will not be so much different compared to the current model. We will probably see some visual updates that are usual for these kinds of updates. Expect many new details at the front, but also some at the rear end. From a side, we could see new wheels. Also, some new color options are quite possible. When it comes to the interior, we don’t expect bigger changes in design, although we could see some new details on the dash.
2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid equipment
The gasoline version of this excellent crossover comes in several trim levels. On the other side, we believe that the 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid will probably come in a single trim, but some optional packages are also possible. Compared to the base LX model, we expect to see more standard features. This version will probably come with things like 7-inch touchscreen, satellite radio, rearview camera, automatic climate control as standard features. We could also see things like a sunroof, heated seats, privacy glass, blind spot monitoring etc. Also, we will see 17-inch wheels, adjustable seats, and steering wheel, 6-speaker audio system, USB ports etc.
2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid release date, price, and competition
We expect to see 2018 Honda HR-V Hybrid in last few months of the year. It is still hard to predict the exact price of the new crossover, but it should go somewhere between 25.000 and 30.000 dollars. When it comes to the competition, there are few small hybrid crossovers on the market. There are hybrid versions of Toyota CH-R and Kia Soul. However, we could also consider small hybrid sedans and hatchbacks as competitors. So, there are also models like Chevrolet Bolt EV, BMW i3, Nissan Leaf and many other hybrids and electric cars.
