Honda Automobile Thailand early this November unveiled the all-new Honda HR-V with all the details and features but withheld the pricing.
Starting today, the all-new Honda HR-V e:HEV starts its pricing from THB979,000 (approx. RM125k) for the E variant, THB1,079,000 (approx. RM138k) for the EL variant and THB1,179,000 (over RM151k) for the range-topping RS variant. Although packed with more technology and features, the prices are only a slight increase of between THB20,000 to THB60,000 compared to the outgoing model.
All Honda HR-V Hybrid variants also undercut the Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8 Hybrid that has its pricing range from THB1,019,000 to THB1,199,000. Nissan Thailand meanwhile prices their Kicks E-Power from THB889,000 to THB1,049,000.
One major reason why the more technologically advanced new-generation line-up does not see a huge price increase is due to the transparent green vehicle policies legislated by the Thai Board of Investment (BoI).
With Honda Automobile Thailand committed to building hybrid batteries and other associated components that contribute to ultra-low CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, the excise tax applied to the new Honda HR-V Hybrid is only 4%, compared to a massive 20% on the outgoing model as well as the new Civic Turbo.
This significantly lower tax rate allows the vehicle to be fitted with plenty of new features whilst keeping the price increment controllable. Among the ‘wow’ features in the range-topping Honda HR-V Hybrid RS that is cheaper than the equivalent Honda Civic Turbo RS are the panoramic glass roof, exclusive smoke coloured tail lamp, 18-inch wheels, powered tailgate with walk-away auto closure and two-tone body colour.
To be awarded the 4% excise tax incentive, the Honda HR-V Hybrid must emit less than 100 g/km of CO2 or approximately 4.3 litres per 100 km in fuel consumption (ECE R101 method), which the e:HEV system overachieving through an official reading of 3.9 litres per 100 km.
The hybrid system in the new Honda HR-V comprise of an electric motor pushing out 131 hp and 253 Nm of torque paired with a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle engine peaking 105 hp and 127 Nm. This power unit is also seen in the City sedan and hatchback hybrid variants, albeit with lower outputs.
As for availability in Malaysia, we will need to be patient until at least two other models have completed their official launches- the upcoming Honda City Hatchback and the all-new 11th generation Honda Civic. Honda Malaysia recently updated the current generation Honda HR-V 1.8 with a host of additional features and priced at just RM105,364.
GALLERY
