The Honda HR-V is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured and marketed by Honda over three generations.
The first generation HR-V was based on the Honda Logo. It was marketed from 1999 to 2006 in Europe, Japan and select Asia-Pacific markets – and featured three doors (1999–2003) or five doors (1999–2006). The two configurations were internally designated GH2 and GH4 respectively.
After a hiatus between 2006 and 2013, Honda reintroduced the nameplate for the second generation HR-V, based on the third-generation Honda Fit. Production began in late 2013 for the Japanese domestic market as the , while production started in 2015 for North America, Australia, Brazil and select Asian markets as the HR-V. Apart from Japan, the model is also sold as the Vezel in China.
For the third-generation model, the nameplate is split between two different vehicles, one for the global market (sold as the Vezel in Japan), and a larger model based on the eleventh-generation Civic destined for North America and China. The latter model is sold outside those markets as the Honda ZR-V.
According to Honda, the name "HR-V" stands for "Hi-rider Revolutionary Vehicle", while the name "Vezel" is coined from "bezel", the oblique faces of a cut gem, with the "V" for "vehicle".
First generation (GH; 1998)
The HR-V debuted as the J-WJ concept, one of the four concepts in Honda's J-Mover Series unveiled at the 1997 Tokyo Motor Show and the 1998 Geneva Motor Show. With minimal changes from the concept, the HR-V was marketed exclusively in Japan via Honda's Verno dealership network, aimed at a young demographic. The HR-V was subsequently marketed in Europe with either a Honda D16W1 type 1.6-litre SOHC (FWD or 4WD) or a SOHC VTEC Honda D16W5 type engine (exclusively 4WD). A continuously variable transmission was optional.
The HR-V shared its platform with the Honda Logo, and was manufactured in Suzuka, Japan. The all-wheel drive configuration was initially available in a three-door body in February 1999 and was internally designated the GH2. In September 1999, Honda introduced a front-wheel drive, three door variant. Five door models were designated GH4 and were introduced in March 2000. At this time, Honda offered a VTEC engine option for both the three and five-door four-wheel drive models. Neither a five-door front-wheel drive, or a front-wheel drive model with the VTEC engine were marketed.
The five-door was 110 mm longer overall, with a 100 mm longer wheelbase (2,460 mm). Suspension on all models was via MacPherson strut front suspension and a five-link De Dion-type rear suspension.
In advance of European pedestrian protection legislation, the HR-V was designed to minimize pedestrian injuries in the event of an impact. Equipment featured ABS brakes with EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), dual SRS (supplemental restraint system) airbags, as well as folding power mirrors, power windows, folding rear seats, power steering, heat absorbing glazing, air conditioning, front fog lights and a rear spoiler with an LED center high-mounted brake light. A 285-litre cargo area was equipped with cargo hooks, a subdivided underfloor compartment, and 50:50 split-fold rear seats. Options included body colour roof rails and a large rear roof spoiler.
The Real Time 4WD system, shared with the CR-V, uses a dual hydraulic pump rear differential where the 4WD system is hydraulically activated when the front wheels lose traction. The HR-V was noted for its low nitrous oxide emissions.
The HR-V received an exterior and interior facelift for model year 2002.
Engines
Second generation (RU; 2013)
The second generation HR-V was previewed as the Urban SUV Concept which was unveiled at the 2013 North American International Auto Show. The concept version was said to be based on Honda's Global Compact Series, which includes the Honda Fit subcompact and the Honda City subcompact sedan.
The vehicle was unveiled in November 2013 at the Tokyo Motor Show as the Vezel. Based on the Honda Fit platform, at the time of its introduction it was the smallest SUV from Honda, below the CR-V. The exterior design of the crossover is inspired by coupés with its sloping roof, and a unique design element like hidden rear door handles.