A Closer Look At The Honda HR-V Hybrid

In case if you haven't heard, Honda Malaysia has recently launched a mildly updated Honda HR-V, whose range has now been expanded to include a hybrid variant. Malaysia is also the first country to launch and locally assemble a HR-V Hybrid outside of Japan, where the same car is sold as the Vezel Hybrid. 

Mechanically similar to the City and Jazz Hybrid, the HR-V Hybrid is powered by the similar 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, but the fuel is now fed through a direct-injection system and the combustion cycle is a regular Otto cycle versus the City/Jazz Hybrid's fuel-saving Atkinson cycle, allowing the HR-V Hybrid makes more power. 

The engine alone makes 132 PS and 156 Nm, while the electric motor provides another 29.5 PS and 160 Nm, delivering a combined system output of 152 PS and 190 Nm. Drive is sent to the front wheels via a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

In comparison, the similar 1.5-litre capacity Jazz/City Hybrid makes just 137 PS and 170 Nm in combined system output and torque.

Inside, the biggest difference for the hybrid variant is the hybrid-exclusive meter panel (includes energy flow display), unique shift-by-wire gear knob that takes up less space, and a Sport mode button. As the shift-by-wire system doesn't require mechanical linkages to the gearbox, there is more storage space under the centre console.

The Honda HR-V Hybrid is priced from RM 120,800. The hybrid subcompact SUV from Honda is backed by the company’s 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, while the hybrid battery is backed by an 8-year unlimited mileage warranty.