Honda HR-V Prototype looks awfully familiar

Thu, 02 Oct 2014

Is there anything quite so exciting as seeing a brand-new vehicle for the very first time? Part of the allure of auto shows is the chance to see new ideas, just before they're fully baked and ready for public consumption. "Prototypes" you might say, of production models that are just around the corner. Or, in the case of the Honda HR-V, already down the block a ways.

Here in Paris, Honda has unveiled its HR-V Prototype, a nearly production-ready version of a "new SUV for Europe." Before we take umbrage with that SUV designation – as far as we can tell the Fit-based crossover isn't much of a mudder – we should address the fact that at this year's New York Auto Show in April, Honda handed over just a few images and specs of the actually production-read HR-V for the US. Presumably this is a "prototype" for Europe, where the NYC car is US-specific, but we're still scratching our heads a bit.

No matter! Here in France, Honda tells us that the utile little hatch will be available powered by both a 1.5-liter gasoline engine (the one American customers will see), and a 1.6-liter diesel unit, both wearing the company's Earth Dreams Technology label and presumably running cleaner and more frugally than ever. In Europe, a standard six-speed manual will come with both mills, while the 1.5-liter will offer the option of a continuously variable transmission.

Inside, expect the same bigger-inside-than-outside magic that we've discussed with the standard Fit (or "Jazz" here in Paris) thanks to Honda's seriously flexible Magic Seat.

The HR-V will shed its prototype designation and go on sale in Europe next summer.

Honda HR-V

Honda reveals the prototype of new Urban SUV for Europe

- European HR-V prototype revealed at Mondial de l'Automobile
- Coupé-like design combined with the versatility and stability of an SUV
- 1.5-liter i-VTEC petrol and 1.6-liter i-DTEC diesel engines
- New HR-V uses center fuel tank location to maximize cabin roominess
- Versatile Honda Magic Seats® exploit class-leading interior space

Honda has revealed its new urban SUV for Europe, which made its world premiere at the 2014 Mondial de l'Automobile in Paris today. The HR-V is Honda's new entry into Europe's fast-growing small SUV segment.

The unique exterior design of the new HR-V prototype echoes that of a coupé, with sharp, dynamic lines that link the sleek upper body with the stable and planted lower body. This coupé-esque elegance is achieved without compromising the interior practicality of the car.

The front wheel drive HR-V, can be powered by either the lightweight 1.6-liter i-DTEC diesel or a 1.5-liter i-VTEC gasoline, both from Honda's Earth Dreams Technology series. Both engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while the 1.5-liter i-VTEC unit can be fitted with a semi-automatic CVT transmission.

The HR-V features a center fuel tank location to create one of the most spacious and adaptable cabins in its sector. Honda Magic Seats® make use of this versatility by enabling a wide range of seating configurations, with the ability to fold the second row seats completely flat for added cargo space.

Honda's new European HR-V is scheduled to go on sale across Europe during the summer of 2015.

By Jonathon Ramsey